Free BTEC Level 2 Animal Care Course in Tonbridge. Classes run full-time at Hadlow College, five days a week during the day. The course takes one year to complete. You'll study practical animal health, biology, animal welfare and behaviour, building the knowledge needed for work across kennels, catteries, zoos, wildlife parks and animal welfare charities. This level 2 btec animal care course is also a strong platform if you want to move into higher education in animal science, veterinary nursing or conservation.
Who this course is for
This course is aimed at students who are looking for a career in the animal care industry, whether that is within boarding kennels, catteries, animal welfare charities, zoos, wildlife or countryside parks or public services. This course also provides a good platform for those looking to progress in to Higher education for careers in animal science, veterinary nursing, behaviour, welfare or conservation. Units covered may include; practical animal health, biology, animal welfare, animal behaviour, feeding and accommodating animals.
We offer a 1 & 2 year pathway for this qualification & this can be discussed with each candidate as part of the interview process.
What you will learn
You'll study practical animal health and how to recognise signs of illness or injury.
You'll learn the biology of a range of animal species.
You'll explore animal welfare legislation and the standards that apply in professional settings.
You'll develop an understanding of animal behaviour and what influences it.
You'll gain hands-on experience caring for animals in a practical setting.
You'll learn about the different environments animals are kept in, from kennels and catteries to zoos and wildlife parks.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions and practical, hands-on activities. Assessment is through assignments, projects and practical tasks rather than formal exams. This is typical of the BTEC approach, where you build a portfolio of evidence across the units you study. Hadlow College will confirm the full assessment details when you enrol.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Hadlow College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Animal care assistant, working in kennels or catteries
Zoo keeper assistant, supporting animal care teams
Animal welfare officer, working for a charity or local authority
Wildlife park attendant, caring for animals in open reserves
Countryside ranger, managing habitats and wildlife
Dog grooming assistant, working in a grooming salon
RSPCA or rescue centre worker, rehoming and caring for animals
What you could study next
Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Animal Management, the natural next step for a deeper qualification in animal science or welfare.
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (pre-degree), if you're aiming toward a veterinary nursing degree.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Animal Science, for those moving into higher education in conservation, behaviour or animal science.
