ANIMAL CARE

The BTEC Tech Award in animal care demonstrates Catholic Social Teaching by promoting the principles of stewardship of creation and respect for life. It emphasizes the responsible and ethical treatment of animals, reflecting the Catholic commitment to care for God's creation and the dignity of all living beings. Through this course, students are encouraged to develop a sense of responsibility and compassion, which are key aspects of Catholic values. 

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The aim of the animal care curriculum is to provide students with a breadth of knowledge across a fast-growing industry within the UK economy. It will develop students’ knowledge, understanding, and skills relevant to the animal care sector, while inspiring and enthusing students to consider a career in animal care.

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Our mission is to ensure that all students are safe, happy, flourishing, and succeeding in their animal care educational journey. The animal care curriculum aligns with this mission by offering both theoretical knowledge and practical opportunities in a supportive environment where students feel safe. Students will learn about animal behaviours, habitats, health, and legislation, as well as gain hands-on experience in handling and restraint of different species and preparing and cleaning animal accommodation.

 

Our vision is to reflect an inclusive community of excellence and opportunity, where every individual is valued and has the potential to achieve their fullest potential. Through the animal care curriculum, we aim to create an environment where all students regardless of starting points feel respected and motivated to excel.

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Our values are centered on Compassion, Respect, and Aspiration:

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• Compassion: We foster a caring environment where empathy and understanding are at the forefront of our interactions with both students and animals.

• Respect: We cultivate an atmosphere of mutual respect, honouring the diversity and uniqueness of each member of our community and the animals in our care.

• Aspiration: We inspire a commitment to personal growth and academic excellence, encouraging students to strive towards their highest goals in the animal care sector.

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This curriculum approach ensures that students develop their understanding in a safe and happy environment, ultimately leading to their success in animal care. The curriculum provides an insight into many different career pathways and opportunities for those students who wish to explore careers in animal care. In addition, the curriculum will support progression into level 3 qualifications in animal management or progression into apprenticeships.

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The curriculum is designed and planned to include a variety of teaching and learning opportunities such as discussions, research, paired and independent learning, hands-on practical sessions, visits from industry specialists and opportunities for visits to animal care settings to provide real-world insights and inspiration. The students will be assessed using different approaches such as internally through the completion of set assignments and practical demonstrations and externally through the completion of a set exam. Students will begin with Component 1 in year 10 ‘Animal Handling and Restraint’ and will then continue on to Component 2 ‘Animal Welfare Needs and Accommodation’ and finally moving on to Component 3 ‘Animal Health’. This structured approach ensures that students receive a comprehensive education in animal care, combining essential theoretical knowledge with valuable practical experience, and supporting their growth in a safe and encouraging environment.