Animal Care Apprenticeships

General information

The Animal Care Apprenticeship is a qualification assessed in a work based environment, supported by theory from attending part time classes. Assessments take place on site and demonstrate learnt and applied skills relevant to the industry. Knowledge is tested via verbal, demonstrative and log book explanations.

Work in this industry deals with the health, welfare, handling and supervision of small animals - whether that's working in a zoo or wildlife park, or for the RSPCA. It's a dedicated profession, as animals need to be looked after 365 days a year.

Pathways include: animal care, welfare, zoos and wildlife establishments, dog grooming, pet care and retail, animal training.

Course content

This course includes:

• Promote and maintain the health and wellbeing of animals
• Deliver basic treatments to animals
• Select and prepare accommodation for animals
• Control and restrain animals
• Move animals between locations
• Provide excellent exercise opportunities to animals
• Train animals through programmes
• Carry out reception duties
• Communicate information within the workplace
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others
• Maintain and develop personal performance
• Make sure your own actions reduce the risks to health and safety
• Welcome and receive and care for visitors to sites

Teaching and assessment

Teaching will be delivered through a number of strategies such as; discussion, lectures, role play, interactive learning using technology, demonstrations and observations, work carried out on site in working environment. Assessment style includes: examinations, tests, logbook and workbook completion, demonstrations, observations, witness statements and supervisor feedback.

Entry requirements

2 GCSE grades A-D to include English and Maths.

It is a condition for this course to be working in a suitable setting for a minimum of 30 hours per week.

Additional course costs

Training on the Apprenticeship Programme for 16-18 year olds is fully funded by the Government. Training for Apprenticeships for 19-24 year olds is part funded, with employers expected to make a contribution. Funding for Apprenticeships aged 25 and over is very limited and employers are expected to make a part contribution.

Progression

Level 3 Apprenticeship in Animal Care, L3 Extended Diploma Animal Management or equivalent L3 course in Animal related discipline.

Dates and times

This course runs for eighteen monthson a part-time basis. The requirement, therefore, is for an Apprentice to undertake a minimum of one day a week at College to study the theoretical aspect to the qualification.