Level 1 Animal Care

Upper School and Sixth Form pupils have the opportunity to study Animal Care as a Vocational Option. We currently follow the Skills and Education Group Specification leading to the Level 1 Award/ Certificate in Practical Small Animal Care Skills. For the Level 1 Award, pupils will complete 6 units of work and those completing a Level 1 Certificate will complete 7 units. Both require pupils to complete 2 mandatory units ‘Principles of the Care of Small Animals’ and ‘Assist with the care of small animals’.

The curriculum intends:

Our aim is to support pupils in having an increased knowledge of animal care that can help them with their own pets and, to raise an awareness of the skills required for working with animals within a workplace, providing a secure knowledge base.  The qualification will help pupils to develop transferable skills such as confidence, responsibility, time management, curiosity and independence when caring for different animals along with communication skills, both written and verbal.  This qualification will help pupils to develop practical, hands on skills when using a range of tools and equipment.

Our curriculum delivery:

Pupils will receive one double lesson a week which will be delivered within the dedicated animal care provision within school.  Pupils will work through a set of units and be assessed against objectives that are set by the awarding body; SEG Awards. Pupil assessment work will be assessed using a range of strategies such as written work, observations and discussions with the pupil.   Theory and practical work will feature in every lesson and pupils may look at laws, safety procedures and the biology of the animals we care for. Knowledge gained will support the repetitive practical skills such as: cleaning out, feeding and handling to increase confidence.

Benefits to pupils (Impact):

Pupils will be able to demonstrate practical skills in feeding, handling and cleaning out animals and pupils will have developed the skills and ability to look after a pet of their own. Pupils will have developed knowledge on potential work opportunities within the animal care industry such as dog walking, grooming, various jobs in a vet, small animal parties, working in a pet store etc.

 

Outcome of study: A Level 1 Award or Certificate