Free Level 2 Animal Care Course in Bury Saint Edmunds

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Animal Care Course in Bury Saint Edmunds. Classes run at West Suffolk College, full-time during the day.

The course covers animal health and welfare, biology, feeding, handling and restraint, animal behaviour, and zoological studies. You'll build a broad foundation across the animal care sector over one year of full-time study.

You'll finish with a City and Guilds Technical Certificate in Animal Care.

Who this course is for

The Level 2 Technical Certificate in Animal Care offers students a thorough understanding of animal care practices and principles, preparing them for a rewarding career in the animal care industry. It covers a wide range of topics, including animal health and welfare, biology, feeding, handling and restraint, behaviour, and zoological. This diverse curriculum equips students with a solid foundation of knowledge across various aspects of animal care, enabling them to work effectively in different animal care settings.You will be offered an extraordinary experience at our on-site animal centre, where you will interact with our resident animals allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. From rabbits and rodents to exotic reptiles and birds, our centre offers a wide range of species, allowing you to observe, experience and develop a deep understanding of animal handling and behaviour, care, feeding and welfare. This will not only enhance your academic journey but also nurture your compassion, empathy, and dedication towards the welfare of animals.Working with animals is incredibly rewarding but be warned! It can often require long hours so you will need a large dollop of dedication and enthusiasm to be successful.

What you will learn

  • You'll study animal health and welfare principles.
  • You'll learn how to feed and care for a range of animals.
  • You'll practise safe handling and restraint techniques.
  • You'll explore animal biology and how animals function.
  • You'll develop an understanding of animal behaviour.
  • You'll gain knowledge of zoological care and environments.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions and practical work at West Suffolk College. Assessment is through a mix of written assignments and practical tasks that test your knowledge and hands-on skills across the qualification's units.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. West Suffolk College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Animal Care Assistant, supports the daily care of animals in a shelter or rescue centre.
  • Kennel or Cattery Assistant, provides hands-on care for dogs and cats in a boarding facility.
  • Zoo or Wildlife Park Assistant, helps with animal husbandry and visitor engagement.
  • Pet Shop Assistant, advises customers and cares for animals in a retail setting.
  • Veterinary Receptionist, supports a veterinary practice with admin and animal handling.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management, a deeper qualification for those wanting to move into supervisory or specialist roles.
  • Level 3 Animal Care or Veterinary Nursing courses, for those looking to work in a clinical or veterinary setting.
  • Apprenticeship in Animal Care, letting you earn while you develop practical skills with an employer.

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