Free Level 1 Animal Care Course. Work-based training at your workplace. You learn on the job, in a real animal care role or placement, while building the skills and knowledge to start a career in the sector. You do not need any previous qualifications to get started. The course takes 12 months to complete.
Who this course is for
A Level 1 work-based Animal Care qualification is for anyone with a job or work placement in the animal care industry, who who is looking for a course to provide a solid foundation to start to build an animal care career. You don't need any previous qualifications or experience to get started.
Entry requirements
This Level 1 course does not require you to have previous experience, however you will need to be working or volunteering in an animal care environment. Please contact us directly to discuss your individual entry requirements to see if you are suitable for the course.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical skills for handling and caring for animals safely.
You'll learn how to monitor animal health and recognise signs of illness.
You'll understand the nutritional needs of animals and how to meet them.
You'll learn how to maintain clean and safe animal housing environments.
You'll develop knowledge of animal behaviour and how to respond to it.
You'll understand relevant health and safety responsibilities in an animal care setting.
How you will learn
You learn through your day-to-day work in an animal care environment. Assessment is work-based, drawing on evidence from your job role or placement. You will build a portfolio of evidence showing your competence in practical tasks. A assessor will visit you in your workplace to observe your work and review your progress throughout the 12 months.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Keits 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 a shelter or kennels
Kennel assistant, looking after dogs in a boarding or rescue facility
Cattery assistant, caring for cats in a boarding or rescue environment
Pet shop assistant, advising customers and caring for animals in store
Zoo or wildlife park keeper assistant, supporting animal care teams
Veterinary receptionist, a front-of-house role in a veterinary practice
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma in Work-Based Animal Care (City and Guilds) - the natural next step, deepening your practical skills and knowledge for more senior animal care roles.
Level 2 Animal Management (various awarding bodies) - broadens your understanding of animal science and welfare.
Level 3 Animal Management - opens routes into supervisory roles, veterinary nursing pathways, or further study.
