Free BTEC Level 2 Animal Care Course in Wakefield. Classes run at Wakefield College, full-time during the day. This level 2 BTEC animal care qualification takes one year to complete. You'll develop practical animal handling skills, teamwork, and organisational skills through classroom learning and hands-on time in the college's animal care facilities. An industry placement gives you real working experience alongside your studies. To apply, you'll need five GCSEs at grades 3 to 9 including English or Maths, or a Level 1 Diploma in Animal Care with a Distinction.
Who this course is for
Learners will have the opportunity to develop a range of skills required when working the animal care industry such as team work, practical handling and organisational skills. These skills are gained whilst working in a real life setting within our animal care facilities. During the course learners will practice those skills during their industry placement. Our experienced animal care will support you with your studies whilst sharing their industry experience and knowledge making the course realistic and content current.
Entry requirements
5 GCSE’s at 9-3 including English or Maths.
OR
Level 1 Diploma in Animal Care with Distinction Grade.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical animal handling skills across a range of species.
You'll learn how to care for animals safely and responsibly.
You'll build teamwork and organisational skills used in animal care settings.
You'll gain experience working in a real animal care environment through the college's facilities.
You'll complete an industry placement to practise skills in a working setting.
You'll learn from experienced animal care professionals who share their industry knowledge.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions, practical work in the college's animal care facilities, and an industry placement. Assessment is through assignments, practical tasks, and portfolio evidence. Your work is assessed against Pearson Edexcel BTEC standards throughout the year rather than through a single exam.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Wakefield College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Animal care assistant, supporting day-to-day care in kennels or catteries
Veterinary receptionist, handling client bookings and animal check-ins
Zoo keeper assistant, helping care for animals in wildlife settings
Pet shop assistant, advising customers and caring for in-store animals
Animal rescue worker, supporting rehoming and welfare at rescue centres
Grooming assistant, preparing animals for grooming treatments
What you could study next
Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Animal Management: the natural next step if you want to move into supervisory or specialist animal care roles.
Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Animal Nursing Assistant): opens a route toward veterinary nursing support work.
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Equine Management: if you want to specialise in horse care and yard management.