Qualifications
OCN NI Level 2 Certificate in Transversal Skills (L2 Animal Care) (610/1466/7)
Overview
This is a one-year, full-time programme during which you will learn about the basic needs of animals and their care.
You will cover aspects of the behaviour, handling, care, welfare and accommodation of animals as well as some basic biology. You will have a variety of classroom-based lessons and practical work and will be required to undertake a variety of cleaning and grooming activities.
The programme also includes a compulsory industry work experience component. In addition to the knowledge and technical modules you will develop wider skills essential for employment, with dedicated support to achieve Level 2 Literacy and Numeracy, along with Transversal Skills.
Key aspects of study:
The Traineeship programme will provide an opportunity for you to achieve the following key elements:
A main Level 2 vocational based qualification (with modules concerning animal biology, animal welfare, animal behaviour, animal accommodation and animal health)
Vocational skills development
Transversal and digital skills
Work placement (lasting at least 60 hours over the year)
Literacy and Numeracy qualifications up to Level 2 (may include GCSE qualifications in English and Mathematics)
Four GCSEs at grades D-G
- including GCSE Maths at Grade D or Essential Skills Level 1 Numeracy
- including GCSE English at Grade D or Essential Skills Level 1 Literacy
Proof of current tetanus vaccination
Non-native speakers must provide evidence of competency in English Language
Non-academic course entry requirements
Important: All applicants must also meet the following conditions:
· be 16 years old by 1 July 2026.
· Provide proof of:
o Right to Study in the UK. For courses with work placement, proof of your right to work in the UK is also required.
o Photographic proof of identity
· Provide translated copies of and/or demonstrate equivalency of non-UK qualifications.
Further information on non-academic course entry requirements can be found at https://www.belfastmet.ac.uk/full-time/further-education/entry-criteria-further-education
The majority of the course is internally assessed by a mixture of the following:
- Written work (to include essay, posters, leaflets and reports)
- Group work
- Practical work
- Demonstrations
- Work Experience
Careers
Employment in the animal care industry including working in a grooming business
Level 3 Extended Diploma Animal Management (see entry requirements for this programme)
The college also offers a Higher Education pathway in the form of a Level 4 Higher National Certificate and a Level 5 Highe4r National Diploma in Animal Management.
Possible career pathways may include:
Veterinary nursing
Animal welfare
Agriculture and equine study
Zoological and behavioural studies
Interests
- Animals
- Biology
- Science
Animal Care (Traineeship) Gallery
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