NC Animal Care
Overview
The NC Animal Care course helps you to develop the knowledge and understanding of the biology of animals. It helps you gain the practical skills needed to carry out duties in the care of animals. In addition, you will develop your core skills (which are transferable to any work situation), such as communications, numeracy, problem-solving, study techniques, listening and investigating skills.
The course is based at Coatbridge campus, however, some the Animal Care practicals will take place near Motherwell campus and you should be able to travel there independently.
The course includes a mandatory work placement at SSPCA, Scotland's leading animal welfare charity, where you will have the fantastic opportunity to develop a wide range of practical, technical and employability skills relevant to animal care and rescue, veterinary support and conservation. SSPCA branches can be reached using public transport and you should be able to travel to your work placement independently.
Entry
Successful completion of either the Pathways to Animal Biology and Science or Introduction to Animal Care and Horticulture programmes along with a positive team progression reference.
OR
- Minimum of three national 4 qualifications (preferably in English, Maths and Biology) plus one National 5 (preferably in a science) at grade C or above.
- A minimum of 10 days work experience within an animal care related setting.
- Applicants for this course must be 18 years of age by the end of October due to the health and safety requirements of the work placement.
- Completion of a detailed personal statement is a requirement of progression to interview.
- Successful students may be subject to satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure Scotland check in the form of an enhanced PVG.
- Applicants must be physically fit to work with animals and you may be required to provide a medical certificate.
Continuing students please refer to the conditions set by the department.
Learn
On the course, you will study subjects such as:
- Animal Anatomy and Physiology
- Parasitology
- Accommodation and Animal Handling
- Small Animal Feeding
- Healthcare
- Avian Care
- Ornamental Fish Care
- Reptile and Amphibian Care
- Safe Working Practices
Every student is required to participate in an animal care work placement during the year from September to June and you will have the opportunity to complete a work placement at SSPCA, Scotland's leading animal welfare charity.
The course also includes a mandatory practical element working with animals and, depending on the placement, travel may be required.
This course will be delivered over 3 days each week between August and June. Placement will take an additional day per week.
Where can I go from here?
Graduates of this course will be able to go directly into the following courses:
