Level 2 Apprenticeship in

Animal Care and Welfare Assistant – Animal Interaction and Handling route

Our Level 2 Animal Care and Welfare Assistant apprenticeship is a chance to work and earn a wage while building your knowledge and skills.

Animal Care and Welfare Assistants look after the routine day to day husbandry and care of domestic and/or wild animals under guidance in a variety of different settings. The work is carried out individually or as part of a team in places such as kennels and catteries, laboratories, animal welfare centres, farm parks, rehabilitation centres, retail outlets and in the transportation of animals. Animal Care and Welfare Assistants must have a strong work ethic and be prepared to work irregular hours in all weather conditions. They must maintain safe working practices and taking responsibility for themselves, animals and others.

Typical job roles include: kennel/cattery assistant; animal technician, animal welfare assistant; animal day care assistant; animal collection officer; wildlife rehabilitation assistant; zoo keeper assistant, pet retail assistant, animal handler, veterinary care assistant, farm park assistant.

What will I study?

  • Animal first aid
  • UK and EU Animal related legislation
  • Types of basic medication, routes of administering medication, safe handling and disposal of medication
  • Handling, restraining and moving of  animals
  • feeding, watering and basic nutrition of animals
  • Species/breeds of animals

How long will it take?

  • 12 – 18 months depending on previous experience

What qualifications do I need to start?

  • Preferable GCSEs at grade 2 or above including English and Maths

What qualifications will I gain?

  • Level 2 Apprenticeship in Animal Care & Welfare
  • Functional Skills or GCSE in English and Maths depending on previous qualifications

Course options after this programme

Career options

  • Animal Technician
  • Animal Welfare Assistant
  • Animal Day Care Assistant
  • Farm Park Assistant