Animal Care : Level 2

Course Information

Cost*DurationExam Cost*Start DateStudy Type
Free to under 19's (FT), £1151 (PT)33 weeks (FT and PT)Free to under 19's (FT), £120 (PT)12 SeptemberFull Time,part Time

Please note fees listed for a single academic year are subject to change, courses longer than one year will incur additional fees.


COURSE CO-ORDINATOR : Lindsay White

Entry Requirements

Any of the following will be considered at interview:

  • Level I Introductory Certificate /Diploma
  • 4 GCSEs at Grades D (including English, Maths & Science)
  • Appropriate experience
  • NVQ2 in a Land Based subject

What Will The Interview Involve?

Students will have a 15-20 minutes presentation by section leader. This will include overview of the land based industries, courses available at the different levels of qualification; career and course progression, what the college expect from students and how they are assessed will be discussed.

Then, individual students will be interviewed by 2 members of staff who will inform you of the outcome before you leave (unless further discussions are required).

Students must bring a pen to the interview.

Who Is The Course For?

Those people who enjoy practical outdoor work and have already had some experience or interest in working in the Land Based Industries. Some work experience with animals will be beneficial.

What Will I Learn?

You will complete 6 units in 1 year, such as:

  • Undertake work experience in the Land-based Industries
  • Maintain Animal Health and Welfare
  • Maintain Animal Accommodation
  • Introduction to Animal Behaviour and Handling
  • Plan and monitor Animal Feeding
  • Understanding the principles of animal biology

Functional Skills

As part of this course you will attend 1 lesson per week in one of the following subjects;

  • Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
  • English
  • Maths

These classes will be with subject specialists and delivered at a level to suit you.

How Will I Learn?

You will learn by completing practical projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations.  The course will cover basic knowledge and important practical skills.  You will also spend at least 1 day each week on work experience.

What Can This Course Lead To?

The Level 2 Diploma is the equivalent to 4 GCSEs grade A*-C.  A level 2 Diploma can develop the skills you need to start or progress a career in Catteries, kennels, veterinary nursing, animal welfare, animal rehabilitation, zoos or animal collections.

The qualification provides underpinning knowledge for NVQ2 Amenity Horticulture and Production Horticulture.  It also provides a good progression for Level 3 Diploma or Certificate in Horticulture, to achieve this you must gain a minimum of overall Merit grade to enter to level 3 with a Distinction grade in the Intro to Biology unit and gain a C grade in GCSE English.

Enrichment activities

Visits to local and mainland venues such as zoos and animal collections.

Work Experience

Work Experience working in realistic work placements, a day per week is delivered at Coleman’s Farm or Branstone Farm (circumstances permitting) to gain ‘hands on’ animal experience. Other placements include kennels, catteries,  farms, veterinary practices and animal welfare establishments.

Additional Information

You must be up to date with Tetanus protection.

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