Animal Care and Welfare Assistant - Apprenticeship - Level 2

You can complete this apprenticeship with employers such as:

• kennels
• catteries
• laboratories
• animal welfare centres
• veterinary practices
• farm parks
• rehabilitation centres
• retail outlets
• animal transportation

Working as an animal care and welfare assistant requires strong work ethic and working irregular hours possibly in varying weather conditions.

By the end of this apprenticeship, you will be able to:

• work effectively in a safe and healthy working environment
• identify and report potential hazards and breaches of security within animal accommodation/enclosures
• clean and maintain animal accommodation and equipment and provide appropriate resources including species specific enrichment (e.g. hiding, perches and areas to dig)
• maintain hygiene, bio security procedures and infection controls when working with animals including quarantine and isolation
• store, use and administer medication
• monitor, record and report the health and welfare of animals
• observe and be aware of the behaviour of animals and take appropriate actions
• approach / handle animals as part of routine husbandry
• exercise / socialise animals and provide appropriate enrichment relevant to their specific needs
• provide appropriate care, for example coat, skin, scales, plumage and feet to ensure good health and appearance
• provide food and water to animals and monitor the intake
• store and care for foodstuffs
• identify and describe animals using appropriate methods to the species involved (e.g. scanning for microchips)
• maintain, update and reference correct records in accordance with current legislation
• deliver customer experience (internal and external)
• respond to animal first aid, urgent, ongoing and preventive care requirements as appropriate

You will need:

• GCSE grade 3 or above in English and Maths
• A suitable employer who is available to start you as an apprentice

An interview will be required to identify your potential, commitment and motivation to achieve the apprenticeship. We will also use the interview as an opportunity to discuss your employer. Depending on your level of English and Maths, you may be asked to complete an initial assessment to show your ability to complete a further level 2 qualification in English and / or Maths.

What qualification will I achieve?

• Animal Care & Welfare Assistant Level 2 Standard
• Functional Skills in Maths and English - Level 2

How is my course assessed?

You will be asked to complete a portfolio to demonstrate your understanding of the job role. This portfolio can be completed in two specialist areas:

• veterinary care support
• animal interaction and handling

On succesful completing of this portfolio, you will complete an end point assessment consisiting of:

• practical assessment
• professional discussion with an external organisation

A grading of pass or distinction is achievable.