Free Entry Level Vocational Studies Course in Norwich. Classes run at Easton College, with a mix of classroom theory and hands-on practical sessions at the college's Animal Management Centre. You'll explore animal health and wellbeing, feeding and grooming, cleaning animal accommodation, and moving and handling animals. The course also builds transferable skills for employment and independence. It runs full-time during the day and typically takes one year. There are no formal GCSE entry requirements; entry is through an interview task and two taster days.
Who this course is for
This small group provision introduces students to animal studies, whilst also developing transferable skills which can be used for employment and independence. Students will be introduced to animal health and wellbeing, feeding and grooming, cleaning and maintaining animal accommodation, as well as moving and handling animals. Lessons are a combination of theory sessions in the classroom and practical sessions in our Animal Management Centre. Students will complete either Functional Skills or GCSEs in maths and English alongside their animal course. Students will need to complete a successful interview and assessment to demonstrate they are able to work in a mainstream college. Students from a supported provision might benefit from alternative courses in our Inclusive Learning department so that they have a suitable transition into mainstream education.
Entry requirements
There are no formal GCSE entry requirements. - Satisfactory completion of the interview task. - Satisfactory completion of 2 taster days.
What you will learn
You'll learn how to care for animals' health and wellbeing.
You'll practise feeding and grooming animals.
You'll learn how to clean and maintain animal accommodation.
You'll develop safe techniques for moving and handling animals.
You'll build transferable skills for employment and everyday independence.
You'll complete Functional Skills alongside your vocational studies.
How you will learn
Learning combines classroom theory sessions with practical work in the Animal Management Centre. You'll study in a small group, giving you more time with your tutors. Assessment is through the coursework and practical tasks set as part of the Gateway Qualifications Certificate. Functional Skills in English and maths are also part of the programme.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Easton College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Animal care assistant: supporting the daily care of animals in kennels, catteries, or rescue centres.
Farm animal handler: working with livestock on farms or smallholdings.
Pet shop assistant: advising customers and caring for animals in retail.
Veterinary receptionist: front-of-house support at a vet practice.
Stable hand or groom: daily care and handling of horses.
What you could study next
Level 1 Award or Certificate in Animal Care: builds directly on what you've covered and deepens your practical animal management skills.
Level 2 Certificate in Animal Management: a recognised step toward employment in animal care roles.
Functional Skills English and Maths Level 1 or Level 2: if you complete Functional Skills at Entry Level 3 during this course, moving up to Level 1 or Level 2 strengthens your options for further study and work.
