Free Level 2 Animal Care Course in Stafford

CostFREE
Duration35 weeks
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Animal Care Course in Stafford. Classes run at South Staffordshire College Rodbaston Campus, full-time during the day.

The course runs for 35 weeks. You'll study both practical skills and theory, covering key topics across the animal care industry. Units include animal health, animal behaviour, and the handling and care of different species. Assessment includes multiple choice exams, presentations, research tasks, and scenario-based work.

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

Who this course is for

This course is for students who are looking for an entry qualification for a career within the animal care industry. The course will focus on specific industry related skills building on both practical and theory-based modules and will incorporate key topics with a variety of assessment methods including multiple choice exams, presentation tasks, research and scenario-based tasks.

Entry requirements

You will need to have a minimum of four GCSE grade at 3�s or above with ideally maths and/or English and a science. Or you will have gained a merit or distinction in a Level 1 qualification.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how to handle and care for a range of animal species safely.
  • You'll study animal health, recognising signs of illness and common conditions.
  • You'll explore animal behaviour and how to meet animals' welfare needs.
  • You'll develop practical skills used in animal care settings.
  • You'll complete research and scenario-based tasks linked to real industry situations.
  • You'll build knowledge of legislation and regulations relevant to animal care.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom lessons and hands-on practical sessions. Assessment methods include multiple choice exams, presentations, research tasks, and scenario-based assignments. Both your practical skills and your subject knowledge are assessed throughout the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. South Staffordshire College Rodbaston Campus 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 kennel.
  • Kennel or Cattery Assistant, looking after dogs or cats in a boarding facility.
  • Zoo or Wildlife Park Assistant, helping care for animals in a visitor attraction.
  • Pet Shop Assistant, advising customers and caring for animals in a retail setting.
  • Veterinary Receptionist, supporting a veterinary practice in an administrative and care role.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management, a deeper study of animal science and management for those wanting to advance in the sector.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Pre-VN), a stepping stone toward a career in veterinary nursing.
  • Level 2 or 3 apprenticeship in animal care, combining work and study with an employer in the industry.

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