Course Overview
Added Value
- You will carry out practical activities and assessments in our on-site animal facilities and an external farm. You will gain hands on experience of caring for livestock, small animals and exotic species as well as working with the general public.
- You will be taught by our industry expert staff who are experienced in a wide range of backgrounds, including zoo-keeping, veterinary nursing, welfare and wildlife conservation.
- You will take part in educational visits thanks to our links with Land Based employers such as zoos, vet surgeries, rescue centers, farms and conservation organisations.
- Some of our learners have taken part in overseas placements including South Africa game reserve management and Swedish farm placements.
- Our new Skills Academy gives you the opportunity to enhance your skills and career prospects further by carrying out industry relevant techniques.
- Level
- Level 3
- Duration
- 2 years full-time
- Awarding Body
- BTEC
- Course Fees
-
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Units and Structure
Course elements
- You will investigate animal taxonomy and evolution of eukaryotic species.
- You will demonstrate knowledge of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 within your assessments in animal health and well-being.
- You will demonstrate practical animal husbandry techniques including grooming, bathing, exercising, cleaning out and providing a suitable diet.
- You will carry out scientific experiments, including metabolism testing and bacterial growth rates, in our on-site laboratory and use specialist industry equipment.
- You will observe and report on animal behaviour, in a species of your choice, which will provide excellent industry experience for your chosen career path.
- You will administer treatments and examine animal health and diseases in domestic, farm and exotic species.
- You will be given an opportunity to develop a publishable investigative research project of your choice which will be presented to you on completion. The investigation can be customised to your career aspirations for additional employability skills.
The Animal Management Foundation Diploma is made up of 10 units which will be covered over a two year period. Learners will also be required to attend a placement in a work environment to support their learning. The minimum number of work experience hours required is 80.
Entry Requirements
You'll need to have:
- Applicants must have achieved a minimum of 2 x GCSE grade 4/C including Math’s and English.
- Applicants must have some industry experience.
- All applicants must complete an initial assessment in Maths and English and attend an interview.
For equivalent qualifications see our Entry Requirements Explained page.
EU students: From January 2021, how you apply for a course will change. For more information, read the UK Government's guide for the UK points-based immigration system for EU students (pdf).
Tutors and Student Support
Student Support and Facilities
As a student, you’ll have access to a wide range of facilities, services and support, including:
- Step outside the classroom and access our state of the art facilities as well as 3 huge Learning Resource Centres with thousands of resources to use
- With hands-on experience you’ll be prepared for employment with a competitive edge.
- A dedicated impartial careers advice team to help you on your future path
- Our wide range of courses means that we can offer the right paths to get you where you need to be
- Our Hub campus is right in the heart of the town centre meaning you can find your way to us easily
- Outstanding student support throughout your studies with us.

Progression and Employment
This course offers UCAS points and you may have the opportunity to progress onto Higher Education.
This qualification will provide opportunities in careers including trainee veterinary nursing, kennel/cattery management, animal rehabilitation, RSPCA officers, zoo, wildlife park or visitor centre work, animal rescue, or pet shop management.
Courses that lead into this
Courses you can progress to
Further study in other areas. Browse all our courses.
Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme
We're proud to be able to offer Dual Career Accreditation via the Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme. This is a Sport England funded partnership between athletes, education institutions, and national governing bodies of sport.
The Scheme helps athletes in education – aged 16-plus – to get the very best from their sporting and academic careers without having to choose between the two.

Apply or Enquire
Want to know more or chat to us?
Have any further questions about this course? You can contact someone specifically about it by using the details below or filling in the enquiry form.
Name: Student Services
Telephone: 0800 358 7575
Email: Contact online
Make an enquiry
Want to apply for this course?
You'll need to have:
- Applicants must have achieved a minimum of 2 x GCSE grade 4/C including Math’s and English.
- Applicants must have some industry experience.
- All applicants must complete an initial assessment in Maths and English and attend an interview.
For equivalent qualifications see our Entry Requirements Explained page.
EU students: From January 2021, how you apply for a course will change. For more information, read the UK Government's guide for the UK points-based immigration system for EU students (pdf).
Application & Enrolment
To apply for this course, please complete our online application form or download a printable form.
Apply Now