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This occupation of Animal Training Instructor (ATI) is found in animal rescue, rehoming and rehabilitation centres, animal and disability charities, public service providers, security and Defence, search and rescue agencies, zoos and safari parks, commercial animal training companies and sole providers of animal training.
While varying dependent on species, the occupation enables animals to be used in different ways. This could include supporting companionship, assistance, competition, entertainment and security.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to plan, manage and deliver the humane training of animals, with particular emphasis on tailoring training to suit a diverse range of guardians and environments. ATIs plan, teach and manage animal training that incorporates positive, reward-based training methods. They work with guardians to help them introduce and reinforce desirable behaviours and avoid or modify undesirable behaviours. This may involve training the animal to undertake specific tasks, or more general training. They develop and adapt training plans to deliver appropriate goals at an appropriate rate. They will often train, mentor or supervise less experienced staff, colleagues or guardians.
To support the preparation for End-Point Assessment (EPA), we provide:
Handbook that covers assessment methods, preparation and requirement checklists, advice and what to expect on assessment day.
Standard specification
A mandatory EPA planning meeting with the Independent End-Point Assessor (IEPA)
Regular Training Provider information sessions
Find out more about this End-Point Assessment by viewing the ST0398 specification.
View our fees here.
Read more about the apprentice journey and why VetSkill is the right End-Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) for you in our Level 4 Animal Training Instructor fact sheet.
Assessment methods:
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Throughout the apprenticeship, the apprentice will have compiled a portfolio of evidence demonstrating the required Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours (KSBs) that will be assessed by the Professional Discussion. It will typically contain 10 discrete pieces of evidence.
At EPA, a Professional Discussion will be conducted between the apprentice and the Independent End-Point Assessor (IEPA). This discussion provides an opportunity for the IEPA to explore specific areas in greater depth, analyse the full scope of the apprentice’s evidence, and confirm their performance against the requirements of the apprenticeship standard. To ensure consistency and standardisation, the Professional Discussion will be assessed against the criteria outlined in the assessment plan for the KSBs; these will include animal health and welfare, applied animal behaviour, working with people, professional standards and responsibilities and information management.
Duration: 60 minutes (plus 10%)
Location: Apprentice’s workplace (either face to face or remote)
Graded: Fail / Pass / Distinction
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The Work-Based Observation will be planned and scheduled to take place whilst the apprentice is working in their usual environment. It will be conducted by the IEPA and is designed to provide the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate KSBs as outlined in the apprenticeship standard. The Work-Based Observation must include observing the following criteria: completion of a dynamic risk assessment, preparation of resources, the animal and the environment for a pre-planned training session and delivery of training to meet the needs of the animal and guardian.
The Work-Based Observation will also include the IEPA asking questions. Questioning can occur both during and after the Work-Based Observation; these questions will be as unobtrusive as possible, taking place between tasks at natural intervals to not disrupt the workflow. A minimum of five (5) questions will be asked regarding KSBs that were not observed but are included in this EPA assessment method.
Duration: 60 minutes (plus 10% if required)
Location: Apprentice’s workplace
Graded: Fail / Pass / Distinction
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The Project will be based on the creation and implementation of an evidence-based tailored training plan meeting the needs of an animal and guardian. The Project involves the apprentice completing a significant and defined piece of work that has a real business application and benefit to the employer’s business. The Project will be approved by the EPAO at gateway, and the Project will then commence after the gateway. The employer should ensure the apprentice has the time and resources within the Project period, to plan and complete their Project.
The assessment method for the Project involves two (2) components:
A project with a project output
A presentation with questions and answers
Duration: 45 minutes (plus 10% if required)
Location: Any suitable location (normally employer’s premises)
Graded: Fail / Pass / Distinction
Interested in our End-Point Assessment service?
Fill in our contact form or email us and a member of our End-Point Assessment Team will get in touch.