Course overview
This Level 2 Animal Care course is available on both Duchy College campuses, which are each home to a large variety of animals
The Level 2 Technical Certificate in Animal Care is about preparing you for any career with animals. Whether going into further study, wanting to become a pet shop assistant, a zookeeper or work in rescue centres, this course sets you up for a career in the animal industry.
Caring for animals can be an extremely fulfilling and rewarding career. From working in kennels and catteries to pet shops, rescue centres or sanctuaries, there is a wide range of careers available on successful completion of your course. With access to animal collections on campus, you will gain the practical training you need to pursue a career in this exciting industry.
This is a one-year course than runs from September to July. It is run over 3 days at college and 1 day at a work experience placement to gain at all important experience. This course uses a balance of theory and practice to help you develop the skills and know how to confidently work with animals great and small.
You will cover a broad range of topics that cater to all animals from small to large mammals, to birds, reptiles, fish and amphibians. You will learn how to maintain animal health and welfare and how to care for feeding and accommodation routines. You will explore animal behaviour and correct handling techniques, along with ensuring Health & Safety is paramount in the Animal and Land-based industries.
You will learn about how to care for exotics animals, aquatics, British wildlife and how animals’ biological systems work.
You will study a combination of theory and practical work and can expect to spend time both at college and in a work experience placement of your choice. You will also have the opportunity to go on field trips to local zoos, wildlife parks and animal sanctuaries.
It is mandatory for students to wear PPE in practical sessions, more information about PPE will be provided upon application.
