Summary

This Level 2 programme is aimed at providing learners with the underpinning knowledge and skills required to work in the animal care industry or to progress into further study.

Learners will study GCSE English and Maths as a key component of the programme, in order to afford the opportunity to achieve a GCSE grade 4 (C). As well as these, BTEC units may include: introduction to animal handling and behaviour, animal nursing, and introduction to the care of exotic animals.

This Level 2 course is based at our Filton campus, located in South Gloucestershire which is easily accessible from the city of Bristol by train (Bristol Parkway / Bristol Abbey Wood) and bus. As well as our Stroud campus in the centre of Gloucestershire, surrounded by the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The campus is a short walk from Stroud train station and easily accessible by bus.

How will I know how I am doing?

A variety of assessment methods will be used to measure your progress from your start point and against your expected outcomes and target grade. These may include practical tasks and assessments, written assignments, performance reviews, presentations and discussions.

The course may also include some external assessment.

Progress will be discussed with your tutor and other delivery staff on the programme.

What do I need to join?

As well as having a keen interest in the subject area, learners will need to possess GCSE grade 3 in both English and Maths.

Learners will need to be committed, punctual and demonstrate an enthusiasm for learning and taking on new ideas and skills.

Maths & English

A key requirement for future progression and employment is a good understanding and application of knowledge and skills in both English and maths. Learners who are enrolled on this course will also, as part of their overall programme of study, be enrolled on GCSE English and Maths in order to progress towards gaining GCSE grade 4 in both subjects.

Employability

We aim to provide you with the skills required to be able to progress into further study and training or employment upon completion of your programme of study. Key attributes required by employers are that individuals be enthusiastic, motivated, presentable (in some instances in company uniform), organised, articulate, able to think 'outside the box', business-like and enterprising, and that they have a 'can-do' attitude. We work on all these areas throughout the duration of your programme of study, and your tutor(s) will provide feedback on progress made, as well as areas for development.

Work Experience

As part of your overall programme of study, learners will be required to undertake a period of work placement related to the field of employment they wish to enter. Our Work Placement Team will assist learners in gaining a placement and ensure that you are on track to achieve, whilst liaising with your course tutors to ensure that the opportunity to practice necessary employability skills is available at college.

What can I do next?

Learners who successfully complete their Programme would be eligible to progress onto further study, an Apprenticeship, further training, or employment. Careers advice and guidance will be available throughout your time at SGS from our experienced team of Careers Advisors and Work Coaches.

What are my career options?

Learners will be challenged to progress onto further Level 2 courses or to top up to a full Level 2 Diploma after successful completion of this course. In order to qualify for progression, learners must have an attendance record of 90% or above, as well as possess an exemplary record of submitting work on time.

Learners should also achieve English/Maths to a minimum level of grade 2 in Functional Skills. Learners can find themselves employed in kennels, catteries, pet stores, wildlife parks, dog grooming salons and zoological collections.

We would advise all learners to try and secure additional voluntary work in one of these fields alongside their work placement, as this could provide enhanced opportunities for employment upon course completion.