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In a nutshell

This course gives you both a practical and theoretical basis for working with animals.

This course is for you if...

... You want to pursue a career in the landbased industry.

... You want to study at university.

... You wish to become a veterinary nurse.

... You want a combination of theory and practical work.

What will I be doing?

This is the first year of a two year course and is made up of 15 units ranging from predominantly theory sessions, such as biology and welfare, to practical topics such as estate skills, husbandry and animal handling.

The course includes 150 hours of industry placement, where you’ll gain experience of working in the animal care industry. Placements vary from zoos and wildlife parks to pet stores and veterinary practices, both in the UK and abroad. The 150 hours are to be completed in your own time and during college holidays.

The animal care unit is a basis for the practical lessons and brings you into contact with a great variety of animals, from a well-stocked reptile room, mammal room and outside areas.

The paddocks around the animal care unit are home to two rescue donkeys. The equine centre homes a selection of horses which can be incorporated into your practical sessions for experience with large animals and during estate skills you will have access to all the equipment in our well stocked workshops.

If you wish to travel, there are many opportunities abroad, ranging from conservation work in Africa to big cat rescue in the USA.

You’ll be assessed through written assignments and examinations, as well as practical assessments.

At the end of the course, you’ll achieve:

• BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Animal Management Year one
• BTEC National Extended Diploma in Animal Management Year 2

• Skills Activities
• Maths and English
• Welsh Baccalaureate
• Other relevant qualifications to enhance your skill set

What is expected of me?

To enrol, you’ll need a minimum of 5 GCSEs grade C or above to include Maths/Maths Numeracy, Science and English/Welsh First Language, or an appropriate Level 2 Diploma qualification at Merit grade with GCSEs to include Maths/Maths Numeracy and English/Welsh First Language at grade C or above.

Full commitment to attendance is required, as well as respect for others, enthusiasm for the subject, self-motivation and a passion for animal management. 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?

On successful completion of the BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Animal Manangement you can continue to study the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management (with science). After which, you have the option to progress to higher education to study subjects such as zoology, veterinary nursing and animal behaviour, or you could find employment in pet stores, boarding kennels and dog groomers.

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 lab coat
• Navy blue overalls
• A bag to carry your PPE in

The approximate cost of the equipment is £40. These items should be purchased before commencing your course.