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Key details

Course area
Animal Science
Student types
16 - 18 coursesCourses for 19+ students
Course type
Full-time Further Education course
Course level
Level 2
Start date
Tuesday 1st September 2026
Location
Basford 664 Nuthall Road, Nottingham, NG8 6AQ
Course code
Parent course code:C000478 Child course code: Q002629
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Course introduction

This course is perfect if you are new to animal care or have some experience of caring for animals, and you would like a career in a related industry such as animal shelters, kennel/cattery work, pet store assistant, zoos, animal welfare or are prepared to train further.

You will be actively involved and learn about correct animal accommodation, handling, feeding, watering, and grooming of a variety of animals. While at the same time working towards gaining a Level 1 qualification.

You will be actively involved feeding, handling, and grooming of animals, along with understanding animal health and welfare.

You will learn:

  • Working in the animal care industry
  • Animal accommodation
  • Animal behaviour, correct handling, and restraint
  • Health, safety, and welfare
  • The principles of animal biology
  • Caring for zoo animals
  • British wildlife species, habitats, and rehabilitation

You will also learn about various professions relating to animal care including:

  • Veterinary science
  • Farming
  • Breeding
  • The equestrian industry

You can expect to be taught by our dedicated teaching team who offer a range of expertise, that they would like to share with you that include, behavioural and welfare of animals, farming, animal biology and equine, veterinary nursing, exotic and zoo experience. From the experience you gain you will be given the opportunity to self-source 150 hours work placement, so that you can further put your learnt skills into practice, to gain valuable employability skills. This then can help you progress into employment or allow you to progress to a higher level of study.

You will learn in our animal care facility, and you can take full advantage of our links with animal organisations such as White Post Farm. We also organise visits to places such as Wollaton Park, Crufts, Yorkshire Wildlife Park and expect guest speakers from the animal industry such as Woodgreen Pets charity.

Programme of Study

When you enrol on your chosen course you will be automatically enrolled onto a Programme of Study (PoS), which will include:

  • A vocational qualification
  • English and maths
  • Personal and social development
  • Independent study
  • Work experience

Enrolling in the Programme of Study (PoS) at Nottingham College offers you the chance to acquire both work-specific knowledge and essential skills. If you haven't yet achieved a GCSE grade 4 in English and Maths, this programme ensures you will study these subjects, enhancing your progression not only within the college but also in future employment. Additionally, the PoS includes a 30-hour work placement related to your course, providing valuable hands-on experience.

The programme incorporates enrichment activities aimed at developing vital industry skills such as problem-solving, communication, teamwork, collaboration, and the ability to follow instructions. These experiences will enhance your CV, making you more attractive to potential employers. You will also participate in personal development sessions covering current and relevant topics like PREVENT, British Values, and keeping safe amongst others. Your personal development tutor will offer one-on-one support for your wellbeing and development, while a personal tutor will set academic targets to ensure you stay on track to achieve your goals.

Social action projects are another integral part of the PoS, allowing you to support local communities and charities. These projects will help you develop "future ready" skills, including professional behaviour and attitude, problem-solving and commitment, communication and collaboration, self-confidence, individuality and respect, and digital literacy. These competencies are crucial for becoming work-ready.

Your timetable will also include independent study periods, where you will engage in activities such as research, revision, improving digital skills, and working on assignments.

Given the practical nature of the course, consistent attendance is crucial to your success and reaching your full academic potential. We expect full attendance in all classes to maximize your learning and development.

By committing to the Programme of Study at Nottingham College, you are setting yourself up for success both academically and professionally.

A bearded dragon

You will be encouraged to participate in a 30-hour work placement while you are studying.

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Course information

1 year

City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Animal Studies.

You will need 4 GCSEs at grades 9-3. However, you must have either English Language or Maths, at Grade 4 or above plus grade 9-3 in a science subject.

Assessments will take place throughout the year and will include practicals, exams and assignment work.

You could progress to work in industry in careers such as animal shelters, kennel/cattery work, pet store assistant, zoos, animal welfare or you may be prepared to study further.

You will be expected to come prepared ready to study with the necessary stationery requirements. You will be expected to provide your own dark green lab coat and wellington boots.

To handle and restrain the animals you will need to have short clean nails, while wearing no hand/wrist jewellery and have (if necessary) your hair tied back.

There will be additional costs involved to travel to Stonebridge Farm, Wollaton Park and any other external trip that may be arranged during the year.

Students aged 16-18 don't have to pay tuition fees.

If you are aged 19 or over you may still be eligible for funding. Check out our Financial Help pages to find out more!

If you are an EU/EEA or Swiss National, please visit our EU Settled Status scheme page for more information.

Animal Science Department | Nottingham College

Careers related to this course

Animal Care Services Occupations

Potential Earnings

£31,073.04

Average Earnings

£18,533.80

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Pathways

Agriculture and Animal Care

People in these occupations plant and harvest crops, run farms, carry out fishing and aquaculture operations, and care for livestock and other animals.
View more about this career

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.

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