Horticulture and Animal Care Level 1

A one year course designed for learners who would benefit from smaller groups and more support at the start of their further education journey.

  • Study Mode

    Full-time

  • Duration

    1 Year

  • Location

    Merrist Wood College

An introduction to the skills and knowledge required for a variety of careers working with animals and plants.

The course focuses on developing life and study skills, accessing vocational experience and employability skills, while progressing both English and Maths. Pathways provide access to vocational areas and students will get the chance to undertake projects in their chosen vocational area to explore their interests in industry careers. 

Level 1 learners who would benefit from a transition programme of study and need time to consolidate and develop study skills before deciding on a vocational area to study further.

The course is unique to Merrist Wood College as it combines both personal development and vocational projects to give students the best possible chance to progress to higher levels of study having built confidence in a more supported environment first.

Course content includes:

  • Practical work-based experience in land-based industries
  • Health and Safety in the workplace (online exam)
  • Animal Pathway – Animal handling, Animal Health and Animal Exercise.
  • Horticulture Pathway – Maintenance of Plants, Industry Tools and Equipment and Plant Identification.
  • Maths and English GCSEs

(Pathways and units are subject to change)

Practical experience portfolio, theory and workshop skills sessions, peer and group activities. You will complete 5-6 hours of practical work experience per week (on the College site), 5 hours of theory, and develop your Maths and English skills.

Step 2 Bridging Programme or full Level 2 qualification. Any related industry employment.

There are no qualification entry requirements for this course, though you will be invited to attend a Taster Session

Taster day attendance is compulsory.

Tutor

Dawn Rigby

Tutor Dawn Rigby I believe that young children need a special environment in which to grow and deserve practitioners who are inspiring, dynamic, reflective and passionate about their learning.
Read Dawn's full story here

Why Merrist Wood College?

  • Clear routes of progression with qualifications ranging from foundation level to degree level!
  • Industry experienced teaching staff give you the responsibility and independence you need to take charge of your own future.
  • 100+

    different courses

  • 50+

    years of experience in teaching land-based subjects

  • 400

    -acre campus specialising in the land-based industries

About us