What will I learn?
The course will focus on developing your skills and knowledge of animal husbandry through a mix of engaging classroom sessions, practical animal handling and work experience.
You will gain hands-on experience with the farm livestock, exotic animals, domestic pets and birds of the College’s Animal Management Centre. There is also an optional three day study trip to Wales focusing on the collection and identification of indigenous species completes the picture. You’ll also work towards Functional Skills or GCSE in Maths and English. We would recommend that if taking both Functional skills for English and Maths you consider studying at level 1 first as students can only progress to level 3 if they have one GCSE in English or Maths which means that progression on to a higher level is not possible if students are studying for both Functional skills.
You will spend 1 day in practical with 2-3 days of theory. There is a compulsory work experience unit – and students complete 1 week’s work experience at a placement they find themselves with the support of their lecturer. There is a large number of written assignments which can be overwhelming for some students – and having the ability to use computers would be essential. You will also be assessed practically – and attendance to all practical sessions is essential to be able to keep on top of these.
Topics covered
- Animal handling and husbandry
- Feeding and accommodation
- Behaviour of a wide range of animals
- Animal biology
- Specialist units looking at caring for zoo animals
- Work experience
Entry requirements
Four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, English and Maths at grade 3 or a Level 1 in Animal Care with either units at a Merit or recommendation for the course.
What can I study next?
- Level 3 in Animal Management
- Apprenticeship – Animal Care and Welfare Assistant Standard Level 2/Keeper and Aquarist Standard Level 3
Careers
Working in kennels, grooming centres, pet shops and animal welfare centres.
