Animal Care, Level 1

Course code: EFCM112P

Subject area: Animal Care & Management

Study level: School Leaver

Course level: 1

Course details

9:30am - 4:30pm

Monday to Friday

6th Sep 2021 - 1st Jul 2022

Common Leys Farm

Contact details

enquiries@abingdon-witney.ac.uk

01993 208148

This one year, full-time Level 1 course combines practical animal-related experience on the Common Leys Animal Unit along with theory to cover the key areas of the care of animals. You will get to work with a range of animals including rabbits, alpacas, meerkats and the farm animals. You will learn how to carry out daily husbandry tasks, carry out full health checks and how to improve animal welfare. Whilst developing your practical skills the course will also help you to develop other employability skills like safe working and working in a team.

The course is suitable for students who are looking for entry into employment in the land based sector or progression on to a Level 2 course (possibly the Level 2 Diploma in Animal Care).Students will be undertaking a study programme that will include their main vocational qualification, skills in English and Maths, Tutorials, Enrichment and Work Experience. These are essential skills for employment. Students will usually attend College 3-4 days a week from 9.30am - 4.30pm.

Course modules include:

Developing safe working skills on the Animal Unit
Assist with looking after animals- Assist with cleaning and looking after animal accommodation
Assist with feeding and watering animals
Assist with the handling and restraint of animals
On successful completion of the course including achievement of literacy and numeracy at Level One, and successful completion of all evidence and competence reports, you may be suitable for progressing to a Level 2 course.
GCSEs at grade 3 - 1 and a sucessful interview and assessment day at Common leys Farm where you can demonstrate your suitability for the programme
In addition to the main course fees given below there are additional costs of £75 for protective clothing and £50 for a course trip. Students may be eligible to apply for a college bursary for support with these costs(Costs are given for guidance only.)

Due to COVID-19 we are not currently planning any trips as part of your course. If we are able to organise trips during your course, the cost of these will be communicated to you at the time. Trips are optional, and you will not be penalised if you choose not to participate. Bursaries may also available to cover the cost of some trips.

There are bursaries available to help you with other course cost, call 01235 216 298 for more information.

The 19+ full fee button displays the full fee that may apply, the rules on fee reduction are complicated and we would encourage you to talk to our Admissions staff on 01235 555 585 to discuss your options. Also see the Course Fees & Finance page by searching Fees and bursaries link at the top of the screen.

16 - 18 Fee

Tuition Fee: £0.00
Exam Fee: £0.00
Kit / Clothing: £80.00

Total Cost: £80.00


19+ Fee

Tuition Fee: £0.00
Exam Fee: £0.00
Kit / Clothing: £80.00

Total Cost: £80.00


19+ Reduced Fee

Tuition Fee: £0.00
Exam Fee: £0.00
Kit / Clothing: £80.00

Total Cost: £80.00

If successful, you will achieve a City & Guilds Level 1 Diploma in Land Based Studies (Animal Care).
Assessment is via assignment, multiple choice computer based exams (GOLA), a portfolio of evidence, and practical tasks.
Excellent English and Maths skills are essential for your success on your chosen course, for your progression onto further courses and into employment. From September 2014, whether you stay at school or go to college, you must continue developing your English and Maths skills. Abingdon and Witney College will offer you an exciting and relevant range of courses at all levels.

You will develop your practical animal handling skills of a wide range of animals to include farm livestock, pets, reptiles, fish and rodents.