If you’re passionate about animals and ready to turn that love into a rewarding career, this course will set you up for success. You'll gain hands-on experience working with a variety of animals, from reptiles to mammals, while learning essential skills in animal care, behaviour, and welfare.
With access to industry-standard facilities, you'll explore everything from wildlife management to veterinary care, preparing you for roles in zoos, animal charities, or even starting your own business. Whether you're aiming for further study or entering the workplace, this qualification offers a strong foundation, with opportunities to specialise and pursue your dream career in the animal care industry. The supportive learning environment ensures you'll develop not just technical skills but the confidence and experience to excel in this exciting field. Pursue your passion and make a real difference in the world of animal care.
You will need 5 GCSE's at grade 5-9 including Maths, English and Science. Or a relevant Level 2 qualification.
| Study level | Cost | Additional fees |
|---|---|---|
| 16-18 | Free | You may be required to pay for trips and visits. You will be required to purchase a uniform and PPE when studying this course. Information will be provided at enrolment. You will be required to purchase your own stationery and a file to keep your work in. |
Your progress will be assessed by a range of stimulating methods including exams, synoptic assessments (practical and theory), written assignments, course work (projects, essays, tests, presentations).
GCSE Maths and English are vital stepping stones for your academic and professional journey. Achieving a good grade in these subjects not only fulfils most college entry requirements but also equips you with essential skills critical in almost every field. Whether you're calculating percentages in business, crafting compelling arguments, or simply managing daily tasks, these core subjects enhance your problem-solving and communication abilities, setting a solid foundation for your future studies and career success. Start your college course with confidence by securing these key qualifications.
Placement opportunities are an integral part of our curriculum, designed to bridge the gap between academic studies and the professional world. These experiences enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real workplace challenges, enhancing their academic learning with practical skills. Tailored to complement your studies, placements are offered in a range of industries, from innovative local startups to leading global corporations.
By actively participating in these structured and supportive environments, students not only observe but also contribute meaningfully to the workings of their chosen field. This hands-on approach boosts confidence and provides a competitive advantage in the job market. The insights and experience gained are often transformative, arming students with the necessary tools for a successful and dynamic career. These opportunities are crafted to ensure you emerge as a well-rounded professional, ready to make significant contributions in your future endeavours.
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:
• Placement Opportunities: Dive into your future career with our hands-on placement opportunities. These are not just work experiences, but gateways to potential employment and invaluable learning. They’re a core part of our courses, offering you a chance to apply academic theories in real-world scenarios.
• 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 animal management for the husbandry of a range of animal species, through a series of theory/practical lessons and industry placement, to allow you to progress to higher education or a career in the animal sector.
You will study a several modules when studying this course including:
Year 1 - Advanced Technical Certificate (360)
301 Health & Safety
302 Work Experience
303 Health & Husbandry
304 Feeding & Nutrition
305 Behaviour
306 Biology
307 Welfare & Breeding
Year 2 - Advanced Technical Extended Diploma (720)
308 Wildlife & Ecology
309 Wildlife Rehab
310 Exotics
316 Zoo Collections
313 Aquatics
367 Specialist Project
Year 1 - Advanced Technical Diploma (540)
301 Health & Safety
302 Work Experience
303 Health & Husbandry
304 Feeding & Nutrition
305 Behaviour
306 Biology
307 Welfare & Breeding
310 Exotics
312 Training
315 Nursing
Year 2 - Advanced Technical Extended Diploma (1080)
313 Aquatics
314 Avian Husbandry
316 Zoo Collection
364 Business
362 Estates
365 Customer Care & Retail
367 Specialist Project
309 Wildlife Rehab
308 Wildlife & Ecology
Northumberland College Zoo - Northumberland College
Upon completing this qualification, you’ll have a range of exciting options. You can advance your studies by pursuing a Foundation Degree at Kirkley Hall or progress to university to study for a BSc (Hons) in fields like Zoology, Animal Behaviour, Conservation, Animal Science, or Animal Management.
Others step into careers within animal charities, zoos, wildlife parks, or pet care businesses. With the skills and experience gained, you can even explore specialised roles in animal welfare, conservation, or management. Whether you choose to continue your studies or step directly into employment, you’ll be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the animal care industry.
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
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