Unlock a fulfilling career in animal care with our Level 1 qualification, designed to nurture your passion for animals and equip you with the skills needed in the field. This programme offers hands-on experience and a solid foundation in the daily care of animals, health and safety protocols, and the ethical considerations of working with diverse species. You’ll gain practical insights into animal welfare and behaviour, ensuring you are well-prepared for further studies or roles in veterinary practices, shelters, and farms.
Our expert instructors, who are professionals in the animal care industry, provide guidance to help you understand the best practices in animal management and care. Whether you're looking to start a rewarding career or simply deepen your understanding and commitment to animal welfare, this course will provide the tools and knowledge to succeed in making a positive impact on the lives of animals.
No formal entry requirements.
Assessment of suitability is likely to be based upon interview.
| Study level | Cost | Additional fees |
|---|---|---|
| 16-18 | Free | You may be required to pay for trips and visits. You will be required to purchase uniform and/or Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) when studying this course. Information will be provided at enrolment. You will also be required to purchase your own stationery. |
You will be taught using a range of techniques, including:
- External exams
- Portfolio
- Practical assessments
- Written assessments
- Scenarios
- Verbal questioning
Achieving a Grade 4 or above in GCSE Maths and English is important, but if you're not there yet, don’t worry! We provide supportive classes to help you meet these essential criteria. These subjects form the backbone of your educational toolkit, opening doors to further studies and exciting apprenticeships. Our sessions in Maths and English will equip you with the skills needed to thrive academically and professionally.
At Level 1, our courses are designed to lay a solid foundation without the requirement of a work placement, allowing you to focus fully on mastering the fundamentals of your chosen field. As you progress to Level 2 and Level 3, we encourage you to enhance your learning experience and boost your career prospects through targeted work placements. These opportunities are crafted to complement your studies and provide practical, hands-on experience in a real-world setting, preparing you to excel in a career you are passionate about.
At Sunderland College our commitment to your future goes beyond the classroom. We are dedicated to providing you with real-world experiences and industry insights that will prepare you not just to enter, but to excel in your chosen field. Here’s how we connect you with the industry:
• Networking Events: Build your professional network early. Our placement and careers fairs are your chance to meet and impress potential employers. These events are designed to help you forge significant industry connections that can enhance your career prospects. Attend talks, engage in discussions, and explore apprenticeship opportunities with employers who are eager to meet fresh talent.
• Expert Insights: Stay ahead of the curve with talks from specialist speakers. These industry leaders share the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field, giving you the inside track on what to expect and how to thrive.
• Skills Competitions: Showcase your abilities in our exciting skills competitions. Held throughout the academic year, these competitions are not just about winning – they are about learning, growing, and pushing your limits. They offer a fun, competitive environment to enhance what you learn in class and develop essential industry skills.
The aim of the course is to develop skills and knowledge in the land-based sector, including animal care, farming, livestock and equine management. Throughout this course, you will work hands on with a range of domestic and exotic animals in different environments.
Modules will change each year. Mandatory units are health and safety, and work experience.
You will also study a variety of optional modules, including:
- Assisting with maintaining the health and wellbeing of animals
- Assisting with the movement, handling and accommodation of animals
- Introduction to wildlife and conservation
- Assisting with feeding and watering of animals
- Assisting with the preparation and maintenance of animal accommodation
- Assisting with the exercise of animals
Upon completing this course, students are superbly positioned to advance their studies with our level 2 and Level 3 qualifications in animal care or related fields. Alternatively, they can step into various roles within animal shelters, veterinary clinics, and wildlife reserves. This qualification opens doors to enriching career opportunities where you can make a significant impact on animal health and welfare, blending your passion with professional growth to create a rewarding future in animal care.
Find out everything you need to know about Sunderland College and our exciting range of courses!
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94% Overall pass rate for T Levels
2022-23
Top performing college group in the North East for student achievement
NARTS, 16-18 Students, 2024
98% of students said they had the freedom to express themselves
NSS, 2024
We have International award winning Immersive Spaces at both Bede and City Campus
