The Animal Care & Welfare Assistant is an important and integral part in the life of the animal, providing essential day-to-day health and welfare. They will be involved with feeding, cleaning, providing basic treatments, handling, movement, preparing animals for exercise and enrichment and carrying out other routine duties.
The Animal Care & Welfare Assistant may also be required to assist with the training of animals using positive reinforcement and preparing them for rehoming. Desensitisation and socialising. Preparation for movement and transportation and breeding dependent on the business needs and pathway option taken.
Potential Job Roles
An Animal Care & Welfare Assistant can work in a variety of different environments, including:
- Kennels and catteries
- Day care creches
- Re-homing centres
- Wildlife and Rehabilitation centres
- Zoos
- Veterinary Assistant
Course Content
The Animal Care and Welfare Standard comprises of four core topic areas in which both knowledge and skills will be covered:
- Health, Safety and Legislation
- Health and Welfare
- Animal Accommodation
- Preparing and Providing Feed
There are EIGHT specialised routes for the employer and the apprentice to select from to suit job role and responsibilities:
- Interaction and Handling
- Wildlife Rehabilitation
- Rehoming
- Operational/Reception
- Breeding
- Working Dog Handler
- Movement and Transport
- Veterinary Care Support
The apprentice will also develop Core Behaviours including safe working, work ethics, responsibility, teamwork and communication.
For further information on course content click here.
Delivery Method
The Animal Care Standard is delivered using a blended learning methodology which includes both face to face visits and remote training sessions. The apprenticeship will finish with an End Point Assessment (EPA) assessed by an Independent End-Point Assessor (IEPA). EPA is sector specific and may involve practical assessments, written tests, professional discussions and review of evidence.
Expected Duration
12 -18 months with a minimum of 12 months