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    Edexcel Vocational Animal Care & Veterinary

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    Ofqual Regulated: 603/7057/9
    Course version · 603/7057/9Version from Sept 2020Change version

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    Official Regulatory Specification

    Regulated by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) in England

    View on Ofqual Register (opens the official government register in a new tab)
    Qualification Number (QN)
    603/7057/9
    Awarding Organisation
    Pearson Edexcel
    Regulatory Type
    Other Vocational Qualification
    National Level & Units
    Vocational • 3 units
    Sector Subject Area: Animal care and veterinary science
    This qualification is officially accredited under the national framework. Credits and certified outcomes are recognised by employers, further education colleges, and training providers throughout the UK.

    Qualification Units

    3 units

    How this qualification is graded

    Assessment follows the awarding organisation’s published requirements. Check the exact unit methods and grading rules with your provider.

    Animal Handling

    This subtopic focuses on the principles and practices of safe animal handling and restraint, essential for anyone working in animal care. It covers understanding animal behaviour to predict responses, preparing the environment and equipment, and demonstrating practical skills that ensure the safety of both the animal and the handler. Mastery of these skills is critical for minimizing stress and preventing injury in veterinary, kennel, and shelter settings.

    Pearson BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in Animal Care

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Animal Health and Welfare

    This subtopic covers the fundamental principles of animal health and welfare, including the identification of common diseases, their symptoms, and treatments, as well as the importance of good care routines and housing. It emphasizes the understanding of disease transmission and the application of legislative protections to ensure the ongoing health and welfare of animals in society.

    Pearson BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in Animal Care

    6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Animal Housing and Accommodation

    This subtopic focuses on the principles and practices of selecting, preparing, and cleaning animal accommodation in a safe and effective manner. Learners will explore factors influencing accommodation choice, such as species-specific needs, environmental conditions, and health and safety regulations. Practical skills include conducting safety checks, preparing enclosures, and performing cleaning routines that minimize risk to both animals and handlers.

    Pearson BTEC Level 1/Level 2 Tech Award in Animal Care

    6 learning outcomes10 guidance points
    Tips and common mistakes

    Common Exam Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exams

    • •Assuming all animals of a species behave the same, ignoring individual temperament and past experiences.
    • •Failing to secure the environment (e.g., closing doors, removing hazards) before attempting to handle an animal.
    • •Using excessive force or incorrect equipment, leading to injury or increased animal distress.
    • •Not recognising early warning signs of aggression, such as growling or stiffening, and continuing to handle the animal.
    • •Confusing symptoms with treatments, or listing treatments without linking them to specific diseases.
    • •Overlooking the importance of preventive measures (e.g., vaccination, hygiene) in disease control.
    • •Describing housing and care routines generically without tailoring them to the specific needs of different animal species.
    • •Failing to reference specific legislation or misstating the requirements of animal welfare laws.

    Top Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for exam success

    • •Always link handling techniques to the animal's behaviour and welfare – examiners look for this connection.
    • •Memorise the key steps of preparation: risk assessment, equipment check, environment check, and personal protective equipment.
    • •When describing a technique, use the correct terminology (e.g., 'scruffing', 'towel wrap') and explain why it is safe.
    • •In practical assessments, talk through your actions to show the assessor your reasoning and understanding.
    • •Use real-world examples of common diseases (e.g., kennel cough, feline flu) to illustrate your points.
    • •Always link disease transmission to practical prevention strategies, such as quarantine and disinfection.
    • •When discussing housing, consider the five freedoms and how they apply to different animals.
    • •In written answers, structure your response to show clear cause and effect, especially when explaining how care routines prevent disease.

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