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Animal Care, Level 1

  • 1

    Level
    Level 1

  • Duration
    1 year

  • Start Date
    September 2025

  • Venue
    Easton College campus

  • Course Code
    A0436

Start Date

  • September 2025, Full Time

Summary

This one year programme will provide you with a solid foundation for progression into Level 2 programmes and apprenticeships, as well as employment within the animal care sector at an entry level. You'll study key elements of industry, including animal care, employability, and essential practical skills. As part of this Level 1 programme of study you will study the Level 1 Diploma in Land-based Studies (Animal).

The course includes classroom based lessons, as well as practical lessons in our Animal Management Centre.

All students will need to complete a work experience placement of 60 hours in our Animal Centre to achieve this qualification.

Students will need to purchase their PPE for the Animal Management Centre. Details with what is required will be provided at enrolment. Students will work in all weather conditions, both indoors and outdoors, ensuring our animals are provided with the highest welfare standards.

Why Our College?

Gain hands-on experience

Work with a variety of animals in our Animal Management Centre.

Thriving life sciences industry

The East of England has a thriving life sciences industry with over 3,000 people working in over 200 companies in the industry .

Excellent career opportunities

Courses offer routes into a variety of exciting careers working for a wide range of organisations including international charities, zoological societies, conservation organisations and veterinary practices.

Entry Requirements

  • Achieve 3 GCSE's at grade 2 or above, including English Language and maths.
  • Completion of a taster day

Learning Outcomes

Units studied include:

  • Safe and effective working practices in Land Based Industries.
  • Preparing to work in the Land Based Industries.
  • Assist with maintaining the health and wellbeing of animals.
  • Animals in the wild and their main features.
  • Assist with feeding and watering of animals.
  • Assist with the preparation and maintenance of animal accommodation.

Please note that units delivered may change.

Assessment

To gain the Level 1 Diploma in Land-based Studies (Animal), you will need to complete the following assessments:

  • Two externally set tests.
  • Assignments across five units.

You will also need to complete maths and English until these are achieved at GCSE grade 4 or above.

Progression

This qualification is aimed at students wishing to progress onto the Level 2 Certificate in Animal Care or an apprenticeship.

Career Progression

Kennel Assistant, Pet Shop Assistant.

Fees

If you are a UK or home fee status student and aged 16-18 on the 31st August before the start of your course, tuition fees are free. If you are aged 19 and over please contact the Advice Shop.

There may be some costs for trips, visits or additional qualifications.

Where Next?

Why Our College?

Gain hands-on experience

Work with a variety of animals in our Animal Management Centre.

Thriving life sciences industry

The East of England has a thriving life sciences industry with over 3,000 people working in over 200 companies in the industry .

Excellent career opportunities

Courses offer routes into a variety of exciting careers working for a wide range of organisations including international charities, zoological societies, conservation organisations and veterinary practices.