Technical Certificate in Animal Care (Intermediate) - Level 2
Overview
This course is for those who are looking to start a career within the animal care industry.
Throughout your time on the course, you will study animal biology, behaviour and handling. You will understand how to maintain the health and welfare of animals, care for domestic, farm and exotic animals and what it is like to work in an animal care industry.
Combining both practical and theory learning, you will study at the Derby Road site for two or three days either in a classroom or the new animal care facility. You’ll also spend one day a week at a local farm to develop your practical skills.
Currently, we work alongside White Post Farm where you will have the opportunity to handle and administer medication to small animals and learn to handle, move and administer medication to large farm livestock and also carry out husbandry on a wide range of animals from exotics to companion animals.
There is a requirement to complete 150 hours of work experience during the programme that the work placement team will help you to find.
Start dates and fees
| Start Date | Code | Annual Fee (Age) | Actions |
| 16-18 | over 19 |
| Sep 2025 | 2486A1073 | FREE | £500.00** E | Apply |
E You may be eligible for fee exemption depending on your circumstances. Please see our fees for adult learners page for more information.
What will I study?
- Animal biology
- Animal behaviour and handling
- Maintaining animal health and welfare
- Working in the animal care industry
- Caring for exotic animals
- Introduction to caring for farm livestock.
Entry requirements
- GCSE English Language or Maths at grade 4-9 plus 4 other GCSE at grade 3-9
OR
- Successful completion of a relevant Level 1 course and GCSE English Language or Maths at grade 4-9.
If you are not studying a traditional GCSE programme, we accept alternative qualifications like Functional Skills and vocational courses. If you are not planning on sitting GCSE exams, we can also support you with completing an English Language and Maths assessment. Please contact our admissions team for further details:
Applicants aged over 19
If you don't meet the listed entry requirements, you may still be accepted with relevant experience, a strong portfolio, and a commitment to the subject.
Study programmes - essential skills for employment
If you’re aged 16-18 (or 19-25 with an EHC Plan), we want to make sure you have the best possible chances of landing an awesome job once you finish college.
Therefore, if you do not have GCSE grade 4-9 in either English Language or Maths, you will study one or both of these courses alongside your full-time study programme. If you do have GCSE grade 4-9 in English Language and Maths then you will not be required to undertake these subjects. By doing so, you'll be building a stronger set of skills that will significantly boost your employability in the future.
Think of it as a chance to supercharge your knowledge and abilities. You'll be equipped with the tools necessary to tackle the world beyond college with confidence. Plus, we'll be right here to support you every step of the way.
How long is the course?
One year.
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed through an exam which is linked to all the core modules. You will also be assessed through course work and a synoptic assessment (which incorporates practical assessments and controlled course work).
What does the course lead to?
Upon completion of the course you could gain employment in a role related to the skills and knowledge you develop on the course or progress to a higher qualification or level of training in the subject.
What can I progress onto?