Pathway to Working Life (Small Animal Care)
This course is aimed at learners who have an inclusion need. It focuses on Preparation for Adulthood and developing work skills.
Course Summary

Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
This course is aimed at learners who have an inclusion need.
It focuses on Preparation for Adulthood and developing work skills.
You will continue to study English and maths and will take part in a tutorial and animal care activities.
Entry Requirements
It is expected that learners will want to continue studying and developing their skills in English and maths while taking a pathway towards a working life.
Places are allocated on an individual basis, following an interview and initial assessment.
What will you learn?
Within this three-day (full-time) pathway, learners will work towards Functional English and Maths, Preparation for Adulthood and gaining work experience within a small animal care environment.
How will you learn?
This course will be delivered on-site.
What will you need to bring with you?
You will be asked to make a voluntary contribution to trips throughout the year and may be asked to provide some personal safety equipment for your chosen options.
How will you be assessed?
Learners set targets which are then reviewed every half term.
If appropriate, learners will sit a Functional English and Maths exam.
Your learning support needs will be assessed and reviewed throughout the year.
Where next?
You can progress within Pathway to Working Life, to a Level 1 or Work Ready Pathway at the College, or to seek employment or training.
Who do you contact for more information?
For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk
Course Information for Employers
Information for Employers
Career Information
DCG Success Stories
Discover how our students have achieved success. Their hard work and dedication to learning has enabled them to succeed in rewarding careers or progress onto higher education.

We encourage progress and aspirational outcomes by guiding people onto learning pathways that lead to positive destinations. Our students have gone on to achieve great things since leaving the College. We would like to share some of their inspiring success stories with you.
Applications for 2025 Full-Time School Leaver Courses are now CLOSED FOR PROCESSING*
If you’ve already applied for a full-time vocational or academic course, please check your InTouch account to view your application status and accept any outstanding offers. We may also be trying to contact you by phone, so keep an ear out for calls from the College — to ensure we are progressing your first-choice course area.
Haven’t applied yet?
Your next opportunity will be during our Clearing Enrolment sessions, starting Wednesday 27th August at 12pm. Please note that places will be limited and subject to course availability, entry requirements, and interviews. Find out more about Enrolment and Clearing Enrolment: Enrolment and Clearing Information 2025
Course Information Last Updated On: March 20, 2025 1:36 pm