Animal Care - Level 1

The programme content includes:

• Learning to be organised
• Developing a Personal Progression Plan
• Learning to work with others
• Researching a topic
• Learning about the land-based sector
• Caring for and feeding animals
• Moving and accommodating animals
• Estate skills
• Maintaining animal health
• Aquatic environments

A period of external work placement will also be completed within this programme.

Whilst there are no general grade entry requirements for our level 1 programmes, you will be expected to show:

• A good attitude towards learning and a willingness to progress, including in English and maths (if applicable)
• A keen interest in the subject and a commitment to working hard

You will be invited to an information session and applicant experience day (if you have been offered a place before May) before you start your course to help ensure this is the best course for you.

How long is this course?

1 year

When does this course start?

02/09/2026

How many hours / days per week is this course?

Full-time courses at CWA are generally 3 - 4 days per week (though you may be in for an extra day if you are resitting English and / or Maths). The college day is typically longer than a day at school and students will need to plan their individual study in their free time (including individual study hours which are recorded at college in the Learning Resource Centre or other study areas). Work experience will be a key component of your course and most students will complete a minimum of 60 hours per academic year (on top of their college hours), depending on the course they are studying. CWA has a dedicated team of work placement co-ordinators to support you with this.

Age	Cost
16-18	Free*
19+	£900

* Some of our courses may have additional costs to cover trips, unform and equipment. These costs will be confirmed to you at enrolment.

Fee information

Though this course is free for those aged 16-18, there may be additional costs related to the programme, such as additional equipment and uniform, educational trips and work placement costs. Full details will be sent to applicants before enrolment.

Find all the information you need about course fees and financial help below.

Information on Fees and Financial Help

Adult (19+) learners

Depending on your age, course, educational history and personal circumstances, there may be options available for you to receive a course fully-funded by the government. Our fee calculator will help give you an idea on whether you'll be able to have your course fee waived or covered by an Advanced Learner Loan.

Complete our fee calculator

Learners with an active Education, Health & Care Plan

If you are aged 19 - 24 at the start of your course and have an active Education, Health & Care Plan (EHCP), any course up to and including level 3 will be fully-funded by the government. This means you will not have a course fee to pay and any equipment considered essential to complete your course will be provided by the college.

What qualification will I achieve?

BTEC Level 1 Introductory Diploma in Land-based Studies.

How is my course assessed?

Assessed via assignments and practical assessments.