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Free BTEC Level 3 Animal Management Course in Wakefield

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start30 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
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About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Animal Management Course in Wakefield. Classes run at Wakefield College, full-time during the day over two years. This Pearson Edexcel level 3 btec animal management qualification is free if you are 16 to 18 years old. You'll handle animals from the college's collection of small mammals and exotic species, go on visits to places like Yorkshire Wildlife Park and Chester Zoo, and complete work experience placements. You'll study the theory and practice of working with animals, building both hands-on skills and independent study habits.

Who this course is for

If you’re serious about a career working with animals, this is the study programme for you.

You’ll be learning by handling the animals in the College’s collection of small mammals and exotic species, undertaking work experience placements and going on visits such as to The Deep, Yorkshire Wildlife Park and Chester Zoo.

You will work on your own as well as in a group, developing your independent study skills. Class based lessons will give you a full understanding of the theory of working with animals and expand your knowledge for assessments. During the course of the academic year, you will be involved in relevant visits, locally and nationally.

Work placement is an integral part of the course as well as other opportunities to work with employers either on site or as guest speakers.

Entry requirements

5 GCSEs at Grade 9-4, including English and Maths.

OR

Level 2 Technical Diploma in Animal Care at Merit Grade.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical animal handling skills with small mammals and exotic species.
  • You'll study animal biology, behaviour, and welfare principles.
  • You'll learn how to plan and carry out animal care routines.
  • You'll explore health and disease management in animals.
  • You'll develop independent research and study skills alongside group work.
  • You'll gain experience of real animal care environments through work placements and zoo visits.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom-based lessons, hands-on animal handling sessions, and work experience placements. Assessment is through assignments, projects, and practical tasks rather than written exams. You'll work independently and in groups. Visits to sites such as Chester Zoo and Yorkshire Wildlife Park form part of your programme. Additional costs for materials, equipment, visits, and residentials are payable by all students.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Wakefield College will confirm anything else you need before you start. Be aware that additional costs may apply for materials, equipment, visits, and residentials throughout the course.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Animal care worker: day-to-day care of animals in shelters or kennels.
  • Zoo keeper: working with animals in a zoo or wildlife park setting.
  • Veterinary receptionist: front-of-house role supporting a vet practice.
  • Animal technician: caring for animals in research or laboratory settings.
  • Wildlife rehabilitation worker: supporting injured or orphaned wild animals.
  • Pet shop assistant: advising customers and caring for animals in retail.
  • Kennel or cattery assistant: boarding and caring for pets.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma in Animal Management: a larger qualification for those wanting more depth before higher education.
  • Foundation Degree or BSc in Animal Science or Zoology: degree-level study at university, for which this Diploma can support your application.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing: if you want to move toward clinical animal care in a vet practice.
Apply on heartofyorkshire.ac.uk →
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