Level 2- Companion Animal Pathway

Develop the skills to care for, handle and manage a wide range of species in this course, which focuses on companion animals such as cats, dogs, small pets and reptiles. You’ll also learn the theory and science underpinning animal care, paving the way for further study in the area.

Companion Pathway

This study programme will focus on animal care and develop the skills you need to care for and handle a variety of animals. The programme will involve lectures, talks from guest speakers, visits, practical sessions in the animal unit and work experience, but with emphasis placed upon companion (pet) type of animals.

Course Themes

• Plan and monitor animal feeding and accommodation

• Animal behaviour

• Animal health, biology and welfare

• Handling, breeds and grooming

• Work experience placement

• English and maths

Why Choose Us?

All students studying Level 2 Animal Care and Level 3 Animal Management have exciting opportunities to work alongside professional keeping staff in our award-winning Wildlife Park. This ever-expanding resource allows students to practice and develop skills in preparation for working in the industry.

As well as this, we have good links with professionals within the animal industry who participate in delivering employer engagement activities to broaden our students’ experiences and understanding of different careers.

Assessment: One externally set, externally moderated assignment. Two externally set, externally marked exams, sat under examination conditions. Optional unit assignments, externally set, internally marked and externally moderated.

4 GCSEs at grade 3 (old GCSE grade D) or above to include two from English, Maths and Science, with at least a grade 2 (old GCSE grade E) in the remaining subject. Alternatively a suitable Level 1 vocational qualification with English and Maths at Level 1.

Upon successful completion of this course students may progress on to a Level 3 in Animal Management pathways:

Types of roles:

Kennel/cattery worker

Pet store assistant

Welfare charity worker

Dog groomer

Trainee veterinary nurse

Animal care technician

Animal rescue centre staff

Trainee zookeeper

Zoologist

Animal conservationist

Ornithologist

Research associate

General worker (zoo)

Assistant Warden

Wildlife assistant

Quarantine establishment

Animal trainer

Dog grooming assistant

Animal welfare officer

Lab technician

Progression and Development Sessions:

All students enrolled on a Level 2 or Level 3 course will be required to attend Progression and Development sessions every week. These sessions will cover a wide range of topics from careers and employability, British Values and equality and diversity to essential life skills such as mental health and wellbeing, drugs and alcohol and personal safety.