Free Level 1 Animal Care Course in Basingstoke. Classes run full-time at Basingstoke College of Technology, five days a week during the day. The course runs for 35 weeks and covers the essential skills and knowledge needed for routine tasks in the animal care industry. A large part of your learning takes place in a realistic animal care environment, so you get hands-on practice from the start. This is a City and Guilds level 1 animal care qualification.
Who this course is for
This one-year City & Guilds qualification�is an entry-level, practical qualification designed for individuals keen to start a career working with animals. This programme focuses on developing the essential skills and fundamental knowledge required for routine tasks within the animal care industry. As a "work-based" qualification, a significant amount of your learning and assessment will take place in a realistic animal care environment, ensuring you gain hands-on experience and build confidence in your ability to work safely and effectively with a variety of species.
Entry requirements
Please see our website for full details
What you will learn
You'll develop practical skills for handling and caring for animals safely.
You'll learn how to carry out routine animal care tasks in a working environment.
You'll understand the basic health and welfare needs of animals.
You'll gain knowledge of animal behaviour and how to respond to it.
You'll learn how to maintain clean and safe animal housing.
You'll build awareness of health and safety practices in animal care settings.
How you will learn
As a work-based qualification, assessment takes place in a realistic animal care environment. You'll be assessed on your practical skills as you carry out real animal care tasks. Classroom sessions at Basingstoke College of Technology support your learning with the knowledge and understanding behind the practical work. Assessment is through observation of your practical performance and knowledge-based tasks set by City and Guilds.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Basingstoke College of Technology will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Animal care assistant: supporting daily care in kennels, catteries, or shelters
Kennel assistant: feeding, cleaning, and handling dogs in a kennel setting
Cattery assistant: routine care and welfare checks for cats
Pet shop assistant: advising customers and caring for animals in store
Animal rescue assistant: supporting welfare work at a rescue centre
Stable hand: basic horse care and yard duties
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma in Animal Care: the natural next step, covering more advanced animal care skills and opening more job opportunities.
Level 2 Certificate in Animal Management: a broader qualification covering animal biology, legislation, and welfare.
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management: for those aiming toward roles with greater responsibility or further study in animal science or veterinary nursing.
