Areas of study on this programme are varied and will allow you to develop the practical skills required to work in the animal care industry, alongside knowledge of animal welfare, animal biology and animal health. The centre has a large animal collection and provides an ideal setting for you to gain valuable, industry-relevant experience.
Entry requirements
To begin this study programme you will need...
Duration: 1 Year
- 3 GCSEs grades 9–3 or A*–D including English and maths
OR
- Land-Based Studies BTEC Level 1 Diploma with Functional Skills
Duration: 2 Years
- 3 GCSEs at grades 9-1 or A*-G ideally including English and maths, and a keen interest in animal care.
Other relevant levels of qualification or experience will be considered.
Course content
This study programme involves practical content, which will allow you to develop your skills in all areas of animal care, including animal health, animal feeding and accommodation and animal handling. There will also be an emphasis on biology and gaining an understanding of how the animal body works. Throughout the study programme you will continue to develop your skills in English and maths to assist you with progression to further study or employment.
• Subject units:
- Practical Animal Health
- Introduction to Animal Biology and Health
- Animal Care Work Placement
- Animal Welfare
- Animal Behaviour Assessment and Safe Handling
- Feeding, Accommodating and Moving Animals
• English and maths:
If you don't already have GCSE English and maths grade A*-C, we will work with you to help you develop your maths and English skills.
• Work experience:
You will undertake a period of work experience as part of the programme.
• Personal development skills, study skills and employability skills
• Additional vocational learning and qualifications:
Where possible, trips will be arranged to local animal collections.
Assessment methods
You will be assessed by a variety of methods including assignments, presentations and practical assessments. There are externally set and marked assessments for Animal Welfare. ‘Introduction to Animal Biology and Health’ is assessed via an online test lasting 75 minutes.
Qualifications
• Vocational Studies BTEC Level 1 Introductory Diploma
• Animal Care BTEC Level 2 Diploma
• English and maths qualifications if requiredFurther study and career options
On successful completion of this study programme you may wish to apply for further full-time study programmes in Animal Care. Along with GCSEs, the study programme will enable you to progress to Animal Management Level 3.
Additional information
An equipment list will be provided prior to the start of the programme and includes steel toe cap boots or wellies and overalls. There will be the opportunity to go on trips as part of the course.
If commuting to Shuttleworth College will be difficult for you, then you can choose to live in our halls of residence on campus. Priority is given to those who live the furthest distance from the College so make sure you book early to avoid disappointment. Visit www.shuttleworth.ac.uk/accommodation for more information.
If you are aged 16-18, tuition fees, exam fees and College membership are free. However, there are additional costs associated with some courses. To take part in this course there will be an additional fee of approximately £30 for protective clothing and £50 for any educational trips that complement your course.
Funding information
All full-time Level 1 and Level 2 courses are now FREE for everyone, whatever their age. If you are looking to study a Level 3 qualification, courses are still free if you’re under 19 or 19-23 and studying your first full Level 3 qualification. If you’re over 23 or studying a second Level 3 qualification, you will need to pay a fee. Find out more on our financial support page at www.bedford.ac.uk/finance