BTEC Animal Care Level 2

In a nutshell

This is a one-year, full time course which provides you with the knowledge and skills to be able to work with a range of animals.

This course is for you if...

... You’re interested in animal science and behaviour
... You want to gain hands on experience working with a variety of animals
... You want a combination of classroom study and practical work

What will I be doing?

This is an academic course, supported by a reasonable amount of practical work with animals. You’ll also get the opportunity to develop skills through a one-week work placement.

You’ll study:

• Biology
• Animal accommodation
• Animal feeding
• Animal health
• Work experience
• Animal behaviour
• Horse care

You’ll also have the opportunity to achieve a practical qualification (Level 1 Work-based Award in Animal Care). This practical qualification provides the evidence of the skills you’ll acquire working with animals.

During the practical sessions, you’ll work with animals in our well stocked animal care unit, which houses a range of animals from ferrets and chipmunks, to snakes and spiders. You’ll also work with the sheep and cattle on The Rhadyr Farm and horses at the equine centre at the Usk Campus.

The course is assessed through practical assessment and written assignments to demonstrate your understanding and you’ll achieve the following qualifications:

• Level 2 in Animal Care
• Skills Activities
• Maths and English
• Other relevant qualifications to enhance your skill set

What is expected of me?

To qualify for this course, you’ll need a minimum of 4 GCSEs grade D or above to include either Maths/Maths Numeracy or English/Welsh First Language, or an appropriate Level 1 Diploma qualification in the relevant vocational area to include either GCSE Maths/Maths Numeracy or English/Welsh First Language grade

Full commitment to attendance is required, as well as respect for others, enthusiasm for the subject and self-motivation. You’ll be expected to participate in all practical sessions with the animals and hand in all assignments on time. You’ll be continually assessed and there is an expectation that you’ll continue your studies and coursework/work placement during your own time.

What comes next?

Level 3 Extended Diploma Animal Management (with Science) or employment in related industries such as grooming parlours, pet stores, veterinary practices, catteries, farms and kennels.

Additional information

You’ll need to have an up-to-date tetanus injection prior to working with the animals.

For Health and Safety you will need to purchase Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) before working with the animals; steel toe cap wellingtons, navy blue overalls and a bag to carry your PPE in, the approximate cost of the equipment is £40. These items should be purchased before commencing your course.