Free BTEC Level 2 Animal Care Course in Grays. Classes run at USP College Palmers Campus, full-time during the day. The course takes one year and covers the practical and scientific knowledge you need to work safely with animals. You'll study animal health and welfare, behaviour, safe handling, and feeding and accommodation. The course also includes science content covering animal biology, microbiology, and basic chemistry and physics, which prepares you for Level 3 study. To enrol, you'll need four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English Language and Maths, with at least one at grade 4 or above.
Who this course is for
Level 2 Animal Care is a vocational program designed to support the development of students who wish to work with animals. The course will benefit anyone who has a passion for the welfare and safe keeping of animals, and those who are interested in entering the world of working with animals, be that dog walking and grooming or working at a petting farm. To be successful on this course you must be able to demonstrate a real commitment, desire and enthusiasm for the care of animals.
Entry requirements
Four GCSEs at grade 3 or above including English Language and Maths.
At least one GCSE needs to be at grade 4 or above.
What you will learn
You'll study animal health and welfare, including how to meet the needs of different species.
You'll learn safe handling techniques for working with a range of animals.
You'll explore animal behaviour and how to interpret it in a working environment.
You'll cover feeding, accommodation, nursing, and grooming practices.
You'll study animal biology, microbiology, and basic chemical and physical principles.
You'll develop the practical working skills needed in animal care roles.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at USP College Palmers Campus. The course is vocational, so learning is hands-on and practical alongside taught content. USP College works with local animal care organisations, giving you experience in real animal care settings. Assessment is through the BTEC model, which uses assignments and practical tasks rather than traditional exams.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. USP College Palmers Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Animal care assistant, supporting the welfare of animals in a shelter or rescue centre
Dog groomer, providing grooming and basic care for domestic dogs
Dog walker, managing and exercising dogs for clients
Kennel assistant, caring for dogs in boarding or rescue kennels
Cattery assistant, looking after cats in a boarding or rescue environment
Farm animal handler, working with livestock on agricultural sites
Pet shop assistant, advising customers and caring for animals in retail
Wildlife centre assistant, supporting the care of wild or rescued animals
What you could study next
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management (Pearson Edexcel): the natural next step if you want to work in more specialist animal care roles or go on to higher education in animal science.
Level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Veterinary Nursing: for those interested in working in a veterinary practice alongside qualified vets.
Level 3 Diploma in Agriculture: if you want to focus on livestock and farm animal management.
