Lesson Plan

Learning outcomes

• Develop English language proficiency through a wide range of academic challenges
• Gain a detailed understanding of animal care and management via theory and practical sessions
• Realistic determination of English ability using the Bucksmore Assessment
• Immersive language development through cultural excursions to UK city destinations

Student profile

• Students who want to improve their English language fluency and proficiency
• Students who have a keen interest in animals and veterinary care as a career
• Young, motivated students looking for an additional challenge through practical workshops
• Students interested in making new friends and joining a vibrant international community

Course Overview

This programme is for students who want to learn about animal husbandry, handling and welfare. Learners build knowledge and confidence around various animals ranging from small mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs and mice), domesticated livestock (goats, donkeys, sheep and alpacas), and exotic species (reptiles, amphibians and tortoises). The course usually starts with small mammals then builds upon these skills as the learner’s progress onto the more challenging animals. Each learner will complete a workbook and receive a certificate of completion at the end of their course.

Sample Lessons

**Day 1 **

Centre Induction: Health and safety talk, tour of Centre and presentation of appropriate behaviour around the animals and wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). **Cleaning and feeding of rodents: **students remove old food and water and then provide fresh food water. Spot cleaning - sweeping of soiled sawdust, wiping of enrichment toys and replacement of hay in hay balls. **Practical animal handling: **students are taught how to handle a rabbit or guinea pig and undertake a health check.

Day 2

**Cleaning and feeding of reptiles: **Students remove old food and water and then provide fresh food water. Students also provide fresh peat and sand. **Practical animal handling: **students are taught how to handle a gecko or snake and undertake a health check.

Day 3

**Cleaning and feeding of amphibians: **Students remove old food and water and then provide fresh food and water. **Practical animal handling: **Students are taught how to handle frogs and toads and undertake a health check.

Day 4

**Cleaning and feeding of invertebrate and specimen species: **students remove old food and water and then provide fresh food water. **Practical animal handling: **Walking and bathing the ferrets.