Pathways to 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 Functional English and Maths and will take part in a tutorial and animal care activities.
It is expected that learners will want to continue studying and developing their skills in English and maths while taking a pathway towards animal care.
Entry Requirements
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 an OCR qualification, work on Functional Maths and English, prepare for adulthood and gain 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 are set personalised RARPA targets which are then reviewed every half term. If appropriate, learners will develop evidence towards an OCR qualification. Your learning support needs will be assessed and reviewed throughout the year.
Where next?
You can progress within Pathways, to a Work Ready Pathway, to a Level 1 vocational course at the College, or 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.
Find out what funding could be available to you:
Thinking about returning to education or developing new skills? Use our funding calculator below to get an estimate of the financial support you may be eligible for based on where you live.
Whether you’re looking to retrain, progress in your career, or try something new, funding could make your next step more accessible than you think.
Simply enter your postcode into the calculator to see an estimate of the funding that may be available in your area. This is based on regional funding allocations and typical eligibility criteria for adult learners.
Important:
The results shown are a guide only and are not a guarantee of funding.
Funding availability can vary depending on:
- Your personal circumstances (such as age, employment status, and prior qualifications)
- The course you choose
- Government and local funding rules at the time of enrolment
If you’re considering adult learning, there’s never been a better time to explore your options.
Our courses are designed to fit around your life, with flexible study options and expert support every step of the way.
Find out more about the courses available. Adult Courses
If you have any questions about funding, eligibility, or courses, our team is here to help. Contact Us
Applications for 2026 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 Open Enrolment sessions, starting Wednesday 26th 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 2026
Course Information Last Updated On: October 17, 2025 10:21 am
