BTEC Level 2 Animal Care Course in Weymouth. Classes run at Weymouth College, full-time during the day. It may be free if you're 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 to 25, fees may apply, though government funding or a student loan could be available depending on your circumstances. This one-year Pearson Edexcel level 2 btec animal care qualification covers animal husbandry, welfare, and biology. You'll work with the college's onsite animal collection and complete at least 80 hours of work experience with an external employer.
Who this course is for
Further Education Students
Entry requirements
4 GCSEs at Grade 3/D or above (including English, maths and science) OR minimum GCSE Grade 3/D and Level 1 Functional Skills. , A genuine interest in caring for animals, a willingness to learn and motivation to gain a relevant work experience placement will also be taken into account. , *Internal applicants who have completed a Level 1 qualification must have achieved an MM grade to be able to progress onto Level 2.
What you will learn
You'll care for a range of animals including small mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, invertebrates, and livestock.
You'll learn animal husbandry skills including feeding, cleaning, and health checking.
You'll monitor and record animal behaviour.
You'll study animal biology and understand how animals function.
You'll practise safe working and employability skills relevant to the animal care industry.
You'll complete at least 80 hours of work experience with an external animal care employer.
How you will learn
Learning combines theory lessons, project work, and hands-on practical sessions with the college's onsite animal collection. You'll also complete a minimum of 80 hours of work experience with an employer in the animal care industry. Assessment is through a mixture of coursework, projects, and practical tasks.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Weymouth 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
Zoo or wildlife park keeper assistant, working with a range of species
Veterinary receptionist or animal hospital support worker
Pet shop assistant, advising customers on animal welfare
Animal rescue centre worker, supporting rehoming and welfare
Farm or livestock assistant, working with agricultural animals
What you could study next
Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management, for a deeper study of animal science and welfare
T Level in Animal Care and Management, a technical route combining study and industry placement
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management, a broader qualification that can support university applications in animal science or veterinary nursing
