Animal Care Level 2

This course is for young people aged 16-18 who are interested in a career caring for animals.

You will learn the theory of animal care supported by practical learning to develop your skills and demonstrate the professional standards required in the animal care industry.

You will study a variety of topics covering animal and work situations.

You will learn about:

• animal biology
• health, welfare and behaviour
• animal accommodation and handling
• feeding and watering.

You will also study English and maths to improve your grades so you can progress to further learning or into employment.

To join this course, you either need four GCSE grade 4 to include maths, English and science, or you need to have completed the Level 1 Certificate in Animal Care with a Merit or higher and be working towards Functional Skills Level 2 in English and maths.

You will learn through a mix of classroom and practical activities in our Animal Care Centre at South Bristol Skills Academy, where you will work with small mammals and reptiles.

You will also undertake a work experience placement in an animal care setting.

Your work will be assessed throughout the year by exams, assignments and practical tasks. Maths and English will be assessed by exams.

After completing this course, you could progress to an apprenticeship or higher level qualification in animal care to continue your training, or you could go directly into employment in a range of animal-related occupations, for example pre-veterinary nurse training, kennel or cattery staff, animal technician or pet shop assistant.

To ensure you work to professional standards you will be required to wear a uniform in the Animal Care Centre – the cost is approximately £30. You will also be required to contribute to educational activities – approximately £150 for the year. If you are on a limited income, you may be eligible to receive help with these costs from our Learner Support Funding Bursary.