Level 1 Land-based Studies (Animal Care)

Course Overview

The Level 1 in Animal Care is a practical, full-time, one-year study programme, which will give you a general introduction to working in the landbased industry, as well as the care of a range of large and small animals. You will learn how to feed, clean, move and exercise animals on our purpose-built Animal Care Unit.

Entry Requirements

GCSE English and Maths at grade 2, or Functional Skills English and Maths at Entry Level 3.

Students will be expected to use basic Maths and English skills throughout this course which will involve short writing tasks and completing portfolio-style work.

*The College reserves the right to ask for a school reference if required

What the course covers

This course forms part of a programme study which will be tailored individually to boost your employability and which will include Maths and English as well as a range of land-based and animal-related topics. Functional Skills in Maths and English are included in the full-time programme along with both group and one-to-one tutorials and enrichment activities.

How will I be assessed?

Your practical skills will be assessed as they develop throughout the course and your tutors will watch what you do, ask you questions and set written work to make sure that your knowledge is growing as well as your practical skills. You will also be expected to develop a collection of coursework and assessment sheets, known as a portfolio.

How much practical work is there?

This course involves an average of six hours of practical work on the animal care unit per week. You will also be expected to participate in classroom-based sessions throughout the week.

The course is practically based and students must be willing to work outdoors on the Animal Care Unit daily, carrying out all animal care tasks set. This will include feeding, watering, cleaning out, grooming, health checking, moving animals and general basic maintenance and tidying tasks; for example, sweeping, mopping, cleaning and storing items. Students must be able to work safely, which includes following instructions and rules, and wear correct PPE (Personal Protection Equipment).

Modules/Units include:

• 201 – Safe and effective working practices in the land-based industry
• 217 : Assist with the care of animals
• 218 : Assist with the movement, handling and accommodation of animals
• 228 – Assist with the handling and restraint of animals
• 405 : Career planning and making applications
• 407 : Interview skills
• 414 : Preparing for work

Work Experience is a part of this course, the hours and dates will be determined by the course tutor. Work experience can be up to a maximum of two weeks on an external placement, you are encouraged to source your own placement with support from the WEX Team and your course tutor. Where external placements are not possible you will be expected to take part in simulated work experience organised by the college.

Fees and funding

Please note:

• Students aged 16 to 18, or those aged 16 to 24 who have a valid EHCP, and are studying Further Education courses are not charged for course fees
• For more information about financial support, please click here.

Additional costs include: Personal protective equipment (such as steel toe-capped boots, coveralls etc) and trips/guest speakers. Full information will be available at enrolment.

Fees for 2025/2026

£87 (plus registration fee to be advised at enrolment)

Please note: Fees are for 2026/27 entry and apply to students eligible for home fee status. The fees quoted are subject to personal circumstances and will be confirmed at the time of your enrolment, depending on eligibility criteria. For more information about financial support for students, please click here or email studentfinance@nescot.ac.uk