Animal Care

Animal Care at Gable Hall School:

Intent: Animal Care Curriculum

The Animal Care curriculum at Gable Hall School is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of animal health. It aims to be foundational knowledge, serving as an indispensable framework. Through this course, students delve into the intricacies of caring for animals, covering essential aspects such as feeding, cleaning, and understanding the five essential needs of animals.

Animal Care Curriculum Implementation

The implementation of the Animal Care curriculum involves various strategies:

• Thorough exploration of animal health, with a focus on practical aspects.
• Integration of animal care into the broader curriculum, ensuring a holistic learning experience.
• Utilisation of group learning and collaboration as foundational elements.
• Emphasis on practical skills through hands-on experiences and activities.

Impact: Animal Care Curriculum

• Students acquiring practical skills and knowledge in animal care.
• Development of a deep understanding of the essential needs of animals.
• Enhancement of students' awareness and responsibility towards animal well-being.
• Positive outcomes in terms of future career paths related to animal care.

The BTEC First Award in Animal Care opens the door to an enlightening journey through the foundational principles, knowledge, insights, and competencies essential in the realm of animal care. With a carefully structured curriculum encompassing four pivotal units, including one externally evaluated examination and the remainder coursework-driven, this program is tailored to equip you with the prowess needed for success in the dynamic world of animal care.

Exploring the Course

Within this comprehensive course, a thorough exploration of animal health stands as a cornerstone. This foundational knowledge forms an indispensable framework for adeptly nurturing the well-being of our beloved animal companions. Furthermore, the curriculum guides you towards honing the art of safe animal handling, a skill that's not only essential but also pivotal in your capacity to provide effective care and support to animals under your guardianship.

Blueprint of Qualification

Structured to unfold over a span of 120 guided learning hours (GLH), this qualification presents a balanced mix of core components and optional specialised units, all meticulously designed to broaden your expertise.

The Qualification Unveiled:

• 2 Core Units (Totalling 60 GLH): These units lay the groundwork for your journey, immersing you in the fundamental principles and practices of animal care.

• 2 Optional Specialist Units (Totalling 60 GLH): These units offer a customisable dimension to your learning, enabling you to delve deeper into specific areas of interest.

Navigating Assessment

The BTEC First Award amalgamates both internal and external assessments, a blend that ensures a comprehensive evaluation of your capabilities.

• Internally Assessed Units: These units, judiciously evaluated within your learning environment, enable you to showcase your understanding and mastery.

• Externally Assessed Unit: Complementing the internal assessment, this unit is meticulously crafted by Pearson and subsequently evaluated by them, providing an objective and comprehensive measure of your proficiency.

Enroling in the BTEC First Award in Animal Care is an investment not only in your education but also in your aspiration to become a competent and compassionate steward of the animal world. Embark on this transformative journey to unlock a world of knowledge and practical skills that will empower you to make a positive impact on the lives of animals.

A Holistic Approach to Learning: Nurturing Students' Connection with Nature

In addition to their classroom studies, students will actively engage in hands-on experiences that bridge the gap between theory and practicality. A key aspect of this experiential journey involves tending to the well-being of our farm animals through attentive care and maintenance. Twice a week, after school hours, students will have the invaluable opportunity to immerse themselves in the Farm Club, collaborating with lower school students to ensure the animals' welfare.

Our Commitment to Hands-On Learning:

1. Animal Care and Farm Maintenance: Beyond textbooks, students will directly contribute to the well-being of our farm animals. This hands-on experience encompasses cleaning and caring for the animals, fostering a deep sense of responsibility and empathy.

2. Collaborative Farm Club: Through regular engagement in the Farm Club, students will actively partake in a shared commitment to animal welfare. This collaboration not only fosters teamwork but also offers valuable mentorship opportunities as older students guide and inspire younger peers.

3. External Partnerships: Our association with Writtle College brings a wider horizon of learning. Students will have the privilege of interacting with experts and professionals, broadening their horizons and enriching their understanding of animal care.

4. Site Stewardship: As an integral part of the curriculum, students are expected to invest time in on-site animal care. This commitment not only reinforces learning but also nurtures a sense of ownership and pride in their environment.

As we embark on this educational journey together, our aim is to foster a deep connection with nature and cultivate a generation of compassionate and responsible individuals. Through practical experiences and collaborative efforts, students will not only gather knowledge but also develop skills that transcend the classroom, preparing them for a well-rounded future.

KS4 Animal Care Curriculum Map