Animal Management Level 3

This course is for young people aged 16-18.

You should be an animal lover with a keen interest in learning about animal health, welfare and management, and an aspiration to work with animals in your career.

You will study a number of topics and learn about a range of different animals and working situations.

In the first year of the course, for the Technical Diploma, you will study:

• animal biology
• animal health
• animal welfare
• nutrition and feeding
• pet shop management
• care of exotic animals
• rehabilitation
• health and safety.

You will also undertake a work experience placement.

In the second year of the course, for the Extended Technical Diploma, you will learn about:

• pet allied services
• wildlife and ecology conservation
• zoological collections
• kennels and catteries
• vet nursing
• business and training.

You will also undertake a research project.

To join this course you either need five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including maths, English and science, or a Level 2 in Animal Care at merit grade or above, plus a minimum of maths and English at grade 4 and a good record of attendance.

You will learn about the theory and practice behind the different aspects of animal management at college in the classroom and in our specifically-designed and vet-checked Animal Care Centre.

Your college learning will be enhanced and developed through visits to a wide range of animal environments including breed shows, wildlife rehabilitation centres and animal shelters.

You will also handle and feed farm animals and wild and exotic animals which belong to local community projects and experienced animal handlers and breeders.

Through your work experience placement in year one, you will spend 150 hours learning in a real animal management setting. Your work will be assessed at set dates throughout the course by exams, written tests and practical tasks.

If you successfully complete the Technical Diploma in year one, you can progress to the Extended Technical Diploma in year two.

This would enable you to progress to a university level course. For example:

• Animal Health and Management
• Animal Behaviour and Welfare
• Wildlife Conservation
• Zoo Management

You might prefer to seek an apprenticeship, for example in animal care or veterinary support, to gain work experience while you continue to train. Or you could seek employment for example as an animal technician, animal welfare assistant, veterinary care support assistant, animal centre manager or dog trainer.

To ensure you work to professional standards you will be required to wear a uniform in the Animal Centre, for which the cost is approximately £30.

You will also be required to contribute to educational activities, approximately £150 for the year.

If you are on a limited income, you may be eligible to receive help with these costs from our Learner Support Funding Bursary.

You will also need to provide wet weather clothing, including suitable footwear for working at the farm.