Learners will have the opportunity to learn how to build on their skills of working with animals. Learners will learn how to work safely around animals and be responsible for the planning and carrying out of animal husbandry health, handling, and feeding tasks. You will also learn about animal behaviour, animal breeds, welfare and business skills.

Learners will also have the opportunity to gain practical experience with a range of animals including dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, horses and a variety of exotic species. Students are also required to undertake work experience (150 hours) which is mandatory in year one of the course and aims to develop your employability skills.

Modules could include the following:

• Principles of Health and Safety
• Undertake and Review Work Related Experience in the Land-based Industries
• Animal Health and Husbandry
• Animal Feeding and Nutrition
• Animal Behaviour and Communication
• Biological Systems of Animals
• Animal Welfare and Breeding
• Animal Training
• Small Animal Rehabilitation
• Pet Allied Services
• Wildlife and ecology conservation
• Wildlife management and rehabilitation
• Exotic animal health and husbandry
• Pet store design and management
• Animal nursing
• Farm livestock husbandry and welfare
• Kennel and cattery management
• Undertake estate skills
• Business management in the land-based sector
• Undertake a specialist project in the land-based sector

On successful completion of this course, learners could continue to study onto higher education or progress into employment in the industry.  Roles could include:

• Animal centre assistant
• Kennel and cattery worker/supervisor
• Animal hospital care assistant
• Apprentice in an animal care business
• Pet store assistant

Assessment is by –

• One externally set, externally moderated assignment (synoptics)
• One externally set, externally marked exam under examination conditions (online)
• Portfolio of evidence
• Work Experience
• Optional unit assessments as required
• Health and Safety theory exam
• Biology Theory Exam

Five GCSEs at grades A*-C, which includes either English language or Welsh (first language) and maths. Or successful completion of a level two vocational qualification in a relevant subject at merit or above. Candidates are subject to a successful interview.

Students will be required to have adequate equipment for working outside in all weathers.

Students will also be required to have the usual equipment for working in a classroom environment.

All learners are required to pay an administration fee of £25 prior to enrolment.

You will need to provide your own stationery, and may also incur costs if the department arranges educational visits.