This therapeutic programme develops practical animal care knowledge and skills through hands-on learning with a variety of animals in a supportive outdoor environment. The course combines vocational learning with personal development, helping young people build confidence, responsibility and skills whilst working towards a recognised qualification. It is a 38-week course, with small group sizes (maximum learners 8).
Designed to support young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, anxiety, low engagement, or those who benefit from a more practical and therapeutic approach to learning, this programme combines educational achievement with wellbeing support. Through meaningful interactions with animals, nature and the outdoors, learners are supported to improve emotional regulation, resilience, self-esteem, communication and engagement whilst achieving a recognised academic outcome.
The programme can be accessed as part of a blended timetable alongside mainstream school or home education. It is particularly beneficial for neurodivergent learners and those who may find traditional classroom environments challenging, providing an alternative learning environment where young people can thrive, re-engage with education and experience success.
Young people will gain a City & Guilds qualification in Work-Based Animal Care whilst developing their understanding of animal welfare, health and husbandry, alongside transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving and independent working. This qualification is designed to support Key Stage 4 learners (14 and over) who are interested in animal care, land-based studies or vocational pathways. It provides a foundation for further education, training or employment within the animal care sector and related industries.
Features of this qualification include:
• Practical, hands-on learning with a variety of animals in a real-life environment
• An understanding of animal welfare, health, behaviour and routine husbandry practices
• Development of teamwork, responsibility and employability skills
• Increased confidence, wellbeing and engagement alongside qualification achievement in a therapeutic setting
• Improved emotional regulation, resilience and social skills through animal-assisted and nature-based learning
• Preparation for progression into further education, training or employment within animal care and land-based sectors
Multiple access points during the academic year.
Academic Outcome: City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Work-Based Animal Care
Attendance: 1 day per week for the full academic year (38 weeks)