Summary

This course is perfect if you want an introduction to working with animals whilst topping up your maths and English skills. This Level 2 programme will provide you with the underpinning knowledge and skills required to work in the animal care industry or to progress into further study.

You will study animal health and welfare, biology, animal feeding and accommodation, animal behaviour and animal-related work experience. You will undertake practical sessions in our purpose-built Animal Education Centre and develop important technical skills for working in the animal industry. Alongside your core qualification you will also be able to study English or maths at either GCSE or Functional Skills level in order to facilitate your next steps.

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.

What do I need to join?

As well as having a keen interest in the natural world and animal management, you will need to possess a minimum of 3 GCSEs at grade 3 or above including science, English and maths. The study programmes affords you the opportunity to resit one GCSE only and you must therefore have a grade 4 or above for either maths or English.

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/or Maths in order to progress towards gaining GCSE grade 4 in both subjects.

Work Experience

As part of the study programme you will undertake a minimum of 70 hours of industry related work placement that links to your long-term career goals. You will be supported by your tutor and work placement coach in finding a work placement but will ultimately be responsible for securing your own placement. Popular choices include animal boarding establishments, dog grooming salons, farm parks and veterinary centres.

What can I do next?

Learners will be challenged to progress onto further study programmes after successful completion of this course and achievement of pass grades (4) in maths and English. You may be eligible to progress onto the T-Level in Animal Management and Behaviour. Alternatively, you may wish to progress directly into the animal industry and may be able to secure an entry level position or apprenticeship within the industry in such organisations as zoological collections, farm parks, animal boarding establishments and dog grooming salons. Careers advice and guidance will be available throughout your time at SGS from our experienced team of Careers Advisors and Work Coaches.