Animal Care - Level 2
Overview
This programme provides knowledge and understanding to support effective and efficient working practices. You will develop a range of skills that will support you in seeking a career in the animal care industry.
You will study at Derby Road and White Post Farm.
Take a virtual tour of our Derby Road campus
Entry requirements
Four GCSEs with at least grade 3/D including English and maths and a minimum of two weeks' work experience in animal care at a relevant and validated organisation; or two GCSEs at grade 3/D including English and maths and a Level 1 in Animal Care (or a related qualification) at merit level or higher.
You will need to attend an interview with the tutor before being accepted on to the course. You will also need to supply at least one written reference from a teacher or employer (in some cases two) and/or your current school or college report.
Mature students (those aged 21 or over) who do not have the qualifications required for entry may still be eligible, subject to an interview. Relevant experience, a strong portfolio of work and a commitment to the subject you wish to study may be acceptable for certain courses.
Start dates and fees
| Start Date | Duration | Code | Annual Fee (Age) | Actions |
| 16-18 | over 19 |
| Sep 2019 | 1 yr(s) | 2486A1 | FREE | £500.00** E | Apply |
E You may be eligible for fee exemption depending on your circumstances. Please see our adult finance and funding page for more information.
How long is the course?
One year.
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed on your portfolio work and through practical assessment. There is also one theory exam covering all mandatory units.
What does the course lead to?
Upon completion of the course you could gain employment in a role related to the skills and knowledge you develop on the course.
What will I study?
- Maintain animal health and welfare
- Animal feeding and accommodation
- Animal behaviour and handling
- Working in the animal care industry
- Health and safety for land-based industries
You will also undertake units in animal biology and the care of exotic animals.
Study programmes
It is an entry requirement for some courses to have gained GCSEs A*-C in English and maths (see entry requirements). If the entry requirements to a course do not require A*-C in these subjects, and you haven’t already gained GCSEs A*-C in English and maths before joining us, you will continue to study English and maths as part of your programme and take appropriate qualifications in these subjects with the aim of achieving A* to C grade. In addition, to help you gain essential skills for employment, every student aged under 19 and studying a full-time course at college will take part in our study programmes alongside their main subject qualification. Find out more.
What can I go on to study?
- Related Level 3 qualifications
- Employment as a trainee in animal care roles such as an animal care assistant in kennels, catteries or pet shops, or with an organisation like the RSPCA.
Careers