In August 2018 the Institute of Apprenticeships launched the new Animal Care and Welfare: Level 2 Apprenticeship Standard as a response to employer demand for a training solution that is current, relevant and fit for purpose.
So what’s changed and what does it mean for you?
Reduced Fees…
The government have agreed to fund 90% of the apprenticeship fees for small employers (those with an annual payroll of less than £3 million) so, if this applies to you, it leaves you with only £500 to pay! What’s more if you have less than 50 employees and your apprentice is under 19 years of age there are no fees to pay and you’ll get a £1,000 grant too!
Tailored Learning…
The new apprenticeship contains a number of core knowledge, skills and behaviours that all animal care apprentices must be competent in. In addition there are Tailored Learning…7 available pathways to choose from. This means that the apprenticeship can be tailored to ensure that it is relevant to their role and to your business. These are:
- Animal Interaction and Handling
- Rehoming
- Breeding
- Working Dog Handler
- Wildlife Rehabilitation
- Movement and Transportation
- Operational Reception Duties
Robust Assessment….
To achieve the apprenticeship the apprentice will:
- Complete a portfolio
- Undertake Functional Skills in English and Maths (unless exempt)
- Pass a final End Point Assessment (EPA) consisting of a practical assessment and professional discussion.
What else do you need to know?
The apprenticeship is expected to take 18 months to complete if the apprentice is working for 30 hours a week or more.
All apprentices must spend 20% of their working time allocated to ‘off-the-job-training’. This can include time being allocated to work on activities such as reflective logs or portfolio tasks, or perhaps undertaking a research project or reviewing working processes. There are many ways in which to use this allocation to the advantage of both the apprentice and your business!
To find out more visit our website or call us on 01480 422060.
