Sheldrake Training Level 2 Animal Care and Welfare Assistant EPA

The Sheldrake Training Level 2 Animal Care and Welfare Assistant End-Point Assessment (EPA) is the final stage of the Animal Care and Welfare Assistant apprenticeship. This assessment evaluates your competence in providing high-quality care for a range of animals, including domestic pets, small mammals, birds, and exotic species. You must demonstrate practical skills in feeding, handling, health monitoring, and maintaining clean, safe environments, as well as theoretical knowledge of animal behaviour, nutrition, and welfare legislation.

This EPA is crucial because it confirms you meet the industry standard for entry-level animal care roles, such as kennel assistant, cattery assistant, or animal welfare assistant. The assessment is designed by Sheldrake Training Limited and aligns with the UK's apprenticeship standards, ensuring you are job-ready. Successfully passing this EPA not only awards you a nationally recognised qualification but also provides a solid foundation for career progression into higher-level animal care or veterinary nursing.

The EPA consists of two main components: a practical observation and a professional discussion. During the practical observation, you will be observed carrying out routine animal care tasks, such as cleaning enclosures, preparing diets, and handling animals safely. The professional discussion then explores your understanding of animal welfare, health and safety, and your ability to reflect on your practice. Both components are assessed by an independent end-point assessor from Sheldrake Training.