Course Overview
The units studied on the Level 1 First Award in Animal Care are all mandatory and relate directly to the skills, knowledge and behaviours expected by employers within the sector. By completing the programme, learners will enhance their broader skills in digital, literacy and numeracy and, they will also develop both technical and practical skills transferable across the sector. Alongside their main qualification, the students will also study a Level 1 Certificate in Personal Growth and Wellbeing which will be taught alongside the Level 1 First Award in Animal Care, this qualification will provide students with the opportunity to acquire and develop generic and transferable skills alongside supporting their skills development in preparation for higher level learning. Learners on the Level 1 First Award Animal Care course will undertake theoretical sessions within the classroom before applying the knowledge and skills that they have learnt to a practical situation.
As part of this course you will study the Level 1 First Award in Animal Care and a Level 1 in Personal Growth and Wellbeing:.
Level 1 First Award in Animal Care:
- Animal Health
- Animal Handling
- Animal Welfare
- Animal Housing and Accommodation
L1 Personal Growth and Wellbeing:
- Improving Physical Health and Wellbeing
- Finding Ways to be Resilient
- Using External Opportunities for Learning
- Produce a Personal Progression Plan
Learning for this course will take place via a combination of both theory and practical-based sessions within the classroom and the extensive Animal Collection at Hartpury College. During practical sessions, you will get to work with over 70 different species of animals including invertebrates, reptiles, mammals, aquatic and avian species. Classroom learning will be delivered via a combination of taught lessons, group work, independent research and the incorporation of guest speakers. As part of your course, you will also be required to undertake a work experience placement (number of hours dependent on course) within the animal industry to work alongside experts to develop your knowledge and skills within your chosen field of interest.
Assessment will take place via both internal and external assessment methods, including written assignments, oral presentations, practical and formal examinations.
On successful completion of this course, along with a suitable tutor reference to include a good attendance record there could be the opportunity to apply to progress onto a Level 2 programme. Alternatively, you may wish to pursue one of the following careers:
- Kennel or cattery worker
- Pet shop assistant
- Animal day care assistant
- Farm park assistant
- Assistant at charity organisation such as RSPCA or Blue Cross
Course Overview
Course information
The units studied on the Level 1 First Award in Animal Care are all mandatory and relate directly to the skills, knowledge and behaviours expected by employers within the sector. By completing the programme, learners will enhance their broader skills in digital, literacy and numeracy and, they will also develop both technical and practical skills transferable across the sector. Alongside their main qualification, the students will also study a Level 1 Certificate in Personal Growth and Wellbeing which will be taught alongside the Level 1 First Award in Animal Care, this qualification will provide students with the opportunity to acquire and develop generic and transferable skills alongside supporting their skills development in preparation for higher level learning. Learners on the Level 1 First Award Animal Care course will undertake theoretical sessions within the classroom before applying the knowledge and skills that they have learnt to a practical situation.
What you’ll learn
As part of this course you will study the Level 1 First Award in Animal Care and a Level 1 in Personal Growth and Wellbeing:.
Level 1 First Award in Animal Care:
- Animal Health
- Animal Handling
- Animal Welfare
- Animal Housing and Accommodation
L1 Personal Growth and Wellbeing:
- Improving Physical Health and Wellbeing
- Finding Ways to be Resilient
- Using External Opportunities for Learning
- Produce a Personal Progression Plan
How you’ll learn
Learning for this course will take place via a combination of both theory and practical-based sessions within the classroom and the extensive Animal Collection at Hartpury College. During practical sessions, you will get to work with over 70 different species of animals including invertebrates, reptiles, mammals, aquatic and avian species. Classroom learning will be delivered via a combination of taught lessons, group work, independent research and the incorporation of guest speakers. As part of your course, you will also be required to undertake a work experience placement (number of hours dependent on course) within the animal industry to work alongside experts to develop your knowledge and skills within your chosen field of interest.
How you’ll be assessed
Assessment will take place via both internal and external assessment methods, including written assignments, oral presentations, practical and formal examinations.
What can you do after this course?
On successful completion of this course, along with a suitable tutor reference to include a good attendance record there could be the opportunity to apply to progress onto a Level 2 programme. Alternatively, you may wish to pursue one of the following careers:
- Kennel or cattery worker
- Pet shop assistant
- Animal day care assistant
- Farm park assistant
- Assistant at charity organisation such as RSPCA or Blue Cross
2 GCSEs at grade 2 or above to include English Language or Mathematics.
You should expect some small costs for books and stationery. There will also be opportunities to take part in trips related to the topics you are studying. These trips incur a charge/are covered by the educational visits fee.
Students are required to pay a non-refundable educational visits fee at enrolment.
Students are required to refer to the kit list as they will be required to wear Personal Protective Equipment while working within the animal collection.
Is there an opportunity for students to study English and/or Maths alongside their course to improve on their grades?
Yes, students who achieved a Grade 2 or lower at GCSE will be required to attend lessons in these subjects in preparation for sitting exams/assessments at the end of the academic year. Learners will either be entered for Functional Skills or GCSE.
Will students be able to progress to study a Level 2 qualification on completion of the Level 1?
Yes, students who successfully achieve the Level 1 First Award in Animal Care, will be interviewed to progress onto the Level 2 Technical Diploma in Animal Care.
How much does the course cost?
If you're a UK student under the age of 19 enrolling in full-time A-level courses at Hartpury College, you typically won't need to pay tuition fees. For further information, details for those over 19 year-of-age and international students, visit: Finance | Hartpury College
Why study Animal at Hartpury College?
Our lecturers have worked as animal trainers, coaches, behaviourists and veterinary professionals – so you’ll benefit from their considerable experience in the commercial animal industry. We offer a dedicated animal environment for you to gain the practical skills, qualifications and experience that employers are looking for.
Why study Animal at Hartpury College?
Our lecturers have worked as animal trainers, coaches, behaviourists and veterinary professionals – so you’ll benefit from their considerable experience in the commercial animal industry. We offer a dedicated animal environment for you to gain the practical skills, qualifications and experience that employers are looking for.
Outstanding
Rated 'Ofsted Outstanding in all areas' for academic and curriculum-related provision
99.8% pass-rate
With a 99.2% BTEC pass rate (Hartpury College 2025), our outcomes for students are exceptional.
Living in on-site college accommodation at Hartpury, you’ll be part of a vibrant and international community of students of all ages who share their experience of life at college and university together on one campus.
The Hartpury Certificate is an enrichment programme designed to support our students to grow.
A-levels or a diploma?
Are you unsure about whether A-levels or a BTEC Diploma are the right choice for you? Find out the key differences and which qualification would best suit your learning style and your career and further study ambitions on our dedicated page.
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