The Farm - Courses Available
The Farm offers pupils from all Bolton Secondary schools the opportunity to gain new skills for the future. Courses introduce pupils to their chosen employment areas. As well as learning practical skills, such as the daily care and management of animals and plants, many of the courses prepare pupils for a more advanced work-related qualification.
Courses currently on offer to pupils:
First Certificate Animal Care
Course Length
2 years, 1 day per week
Brief Description of the Course
The course is designed to provide a knowledge base for a range of careers in the animal care industry. Further, it will enable students to make an immediate contribution to employment. The course will also provide flexibility, knowledge, skills and motivation as a basis for future studies and career development within the animal care industry. The modules will be delivered by a range of methods including lectures, practicals, demonstrations and self study. Depending on the modules being studied, assessments will include written tests, assignments, oral presentations, case studies and projects.
Entry Criteria / Additional Information
Students need to be 14, have an interest in Animal Care and have good English, Science and Maths skills. This course covers practical skills and relevant background knowledge.
List of Modules
- Animal Care Industry and Organisations - This module introduces learners to their chosen industry and develops an awareness of the different types of businesses and organisations currently operating within the sector.
- Animal Accommodation, Handling and Care - This module introduces learners to the principles of housing animals and develops practical competence in the direct handling and nutrition for a range of animals.
- Animal Health, Welfare and Behaviour[ - This module introduces the learner to the maintenance of animal health and first aid.
Possible Careers / Jobs
Employment in kennels, catteries, pet shop, grooming parlour, welfare societies eg RSPCA.
Progression
Dependant on grades and the Course Tutor's recommendation students who successfully complete the course may wish to progress onto the following courses:
- National Diploma in Animal Management
- National Certificate in Animal Management
- ABC Small Animal Care Level 3
- Advanced National Certificate in Animal Care Level 3
Special Requirements
Equipment and/or Clothing
Protective apron/Boiler suit purchased from Myerscough Animal Academy, Wellington boots or other sturdy work boots.
Level 1 Certificate Land-Based Studies - Animal Care
Course Length
2 years, one day per week.
Brief Description of the Course
This course provides a basic practical introduction to the care of a variety of domestic animals. Areas of study will include feeding, cleaning and handling animals as well as additional modules covering work, safety and skills development in the land-based industries. Some time will be spent in the classroom but the majority of time will be spent in the School’s purpose built Small Animal Care Unit. Students must have an interest in the subject and have some prior experience of working with animals.
Entry Criteria / Additional Information
All applicants will be asked to take a screening test in English and Maths before being offered a placed to check basic literacy and numeracy skills.
List of Modules
- Safe and effective working practices in land-based industries - This module provides you with the knowledge and understanding to work safely on an animal care unit or place of work. It covers the correct procedures, recommended codes of practice and current legislations. You will learn about how to report an accident and also how to use Personal Protective Equipment at work.
- Develop performance in land-based industries - This module enables you to gain experience of working as an effective team member. It also provides you with the opportunity to work alone, developing your personal skills.
- Animals in the Wild and in Society - This module looks at animals such as wildlife and exotic zoo species. It identifies the different terminology associated with classifying animals and adaptations animals have developed over time to become better species.
- Assist with feeding and watering animals - In this module you will be learning about different ways to feed and provide water for a variety of animals. You will cover the theory and then go out and care for the Animal Academy animals.
- Assist with the handling and restraint of animals - You will assist others in handling a variety of animals. You will also learn about moving them around and retraining them e.g. for the vet.
- Assist with maintaining the health and wellbeing of animals - In this module you will learn how to keep different species of animals healthy and happy.
- Assist with the movement, handling and accommodation of animals - In this module you will learn about correct handing techniques and about correctly dealing with animal accommodation.
Possible Careers / Jobs
Employment in kennels, catteries, pet shop, grooming parlour, welfare societies eg RSPCA.
Progression
Students who successfully complete the course can progress onto First Diploma Animal Care or National Certificate Animal Care.
Taster Days:
Student Taster Days are held in April each year. At the Taster Days students:
- are given a tour of the Ladybridge Farm facilities and Small Animal Unit;
- have the opportunity to experience ‘hands on’ practical sessions and speak to existing students.
- prospective students have the opportunity to ask questions about the theoretical and practical skills covered in the course.
Expectations of the student and course content are discussed to ensure that prospective students are on the most appropriate pathway.