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Riseholme Animal Management students holding snake

Level 2 Technical Certificate in Animal Care

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Subject

Animal Management

Level

Level 2

Study Mode

Full-Time

Duration

1 year

Start Date

September 2026

The course

Practical vs Theory

20%

80 %

The diverse and fascinating world of animals is growing all the time, making it an increasingly exciting industry to work in. Through examinations, written work, and practical assessments, this course will allow you to develop the skills and knowledge needed to progress into employment or further education. You will develop practical experience in industry during your compulsory work placement, as well as your input on the Animal Management Centre, where you will work with wallabies, lemurs, birds, fish, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects and more, in addition to carrying out practical tasks in our state-of-the-art commercial kennels. You will study a range of animal related subjects to develop a strong foundation of animal science understanding to move onto the Level 3 programme the following year if desired.

Course Information

  • To provide you with the skills to start a career in animal care, helping you to progress directly to employment, or to a higher level course in animal management.
  • Maintain animal health and welfare
  • Animal feeding and accommodation
  • Animal behaviour and handling
  • Working in the animal care industry
  • Health & and safety
  • The principles of animal biology
  • Animal breeds and grooming
  • Maths and English, as required
  • Completion of external work experience (minimum 150 hours)

You will need four GCSEs at grade 3/D or equivalent, including Science, English and Maths. One satisfactory reference and a passion for the subject.

You will undertake theory and practical sessions, scenarios, presentations, report writing, laboratory work, and conduct independent research and learning.

You will normally be in college four days a week.

You will complete a minimum of 150 external work experience hours at an animal related placement that you are responsible for securing once you have started your course. You will also complete time on our animal unit.
You will be assessed through synoptic assignments, external exams, internal theory assessments, and practical work. Upon completion of the course you will be graded Pass, Merit, Distinction, or Distinction*.
  • Folder with dividers to organise your work and assignments
  • Stationery including notepad for use in class, pens and pencils
  • College-branded blue kennel coat
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including steel toe capped footwear (boots, shoes, or wellies)
  • Waterproof outdoor clothing and appropriate footwear (for external work experience)
  • Jewellery and piercings must be removed for practical sessions
This course provides you with the potential to progress to one of our Level 3 Animal Management courses.
Work as an animal boarding assistant, pet shop assistant, rescue centre/animal sanctuary assistant, zoo or wildlife park worker, dog handler, animal/dog groomer or an animal charity worker.
Apply now