Exam Board: Edexcel    
Level: 1/2

Course Overview

The BTEC Tech Award in Animal Care (2022) is a hands-on, vocational qualification designed for students in Years 10 and 11 (Key Stage 4) who are passionate about working with animals. It provides a practical introduction to the animal care sector, blending theoretical knowledge with the development of real-world skills. The course is equivalent to a GCSE.

Component 1: Animal Handling and Behaviour

This component is all about the practical side of looking after animals. You'll learn how to approach, handle, and restrain different species safely and confidently. Key topics include:

• Safe handling techniques for a variety of common companion animals (e.g., rabbits, guinea pigs, dogs, reptiles).
• Performing essential health checks and recognizing signs of good and poor health.
• Understanding the specific needs for housing and accommodation.
• Learning about appropriate feeding and nutrition.

Assessment: This component is assessed internally through practical assignments and coursework.

Component 2: Animal Housing and Accommodation

Here, you'll dive into the science and ethics behind animal care. This component explores what animals need to live happy, healthy lives. You will study:

• The five animal welfare needs (as defined in the Animal Welfare Act 2006).
• The environmental and social needs of different species.
• How to create stimulating environments to encourage natural behaviours.
• The key legislation that protects animals in the UK.

Assessment: This is also assessed internally through written assignments and projects.

Component 3: Animal Health and Disease

This component focuses on the biology of animal health. You will gain an understanding of how the animal body works and what happens when things go wrong. Topics include:

• Basic animal anatomy and physiology.
• Recognising common diseases, parasites, and non-infectious illnesses.
• Understanding the importance of biosecurity and preventing the spread of disease.
• Knowing the role of veterinary professionals.

Assessment: This component is assessed through an external examination set and marked by the exam board (Pearson).

Term 1: Component 2: Animal Housing and Accommodation

• DQ - How do we allow animals to exhibit natural behaviour?
• DQ - How do we house animals with other members of the same or different species?
• DQ - How do we prevent pain, suffering, injury and disease?

Term 2: Component 2: Animal Housing and Accommodation

• DQ - How do we allow animals to exhibit natural behaviour?
• DQ - How do we house animals with other members of the same or different species?
• DQ - How do we prevent pain, suffering, injury and disease?

Term 3: Component 3: Animal Health and Disease

• DQ - How do we spot signs of good health?
• DQ - How do we spot signs of ill health?

Term 4: Component 3: Animal Health and Disease

• DQ - How do we identify diseases in animals?
• DQ - How do we prevent and treat diseases in animals?

Term 5: Component 3: Animal Health and Disease

• DQ - How does legislation protect animals?
• DQ - How are animals used in the human world?

Term 6: GCSE Exams

https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/btec-tech-awards/animal-care-2022.html

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJl5rFr3KefDe17lKRRzZFdNxCpfhwi3a&si=1gVUoPDI_mRS7wKj

https://amzn.eu/d/f513bGB