Level 2 Animal Care Course in Witney

CostFREE
Duration1 week
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceEvening
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Level 2 Animal Care Course in Witney. Classes run at Common Leys Farm, full-time across one intensive week of evening study.

If you're 16 to 18 years old, the course may be free. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply. You'll combine theory and hands-on practical work, covering routine animal management and welfare. You'll work with a range of animals including reptiles, alpacas, meerkats, and farm animals.

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

Who this course is for

This course combines both theory and practical animal-related work to cover the key areas of routine management and welfare for animals. You will get to work with a range of animals including reptiles alpacas meerkats and the farm animals.

Entry requirements

4 GCSES at Grade 3 including English Maths and Science (Combined or Biology) OR a Level 1 pass in a related subject plus English or maths and both subjects must be at least grade 2 / Level 1 Functional Skills

What you will learn

  • You'll learn the principles of routine animal management and welfare.
  • You'll handle and care for a range of animals, including reptiles, alpacas, meerkats, and farm animals.
  • You'll study animal behaviour and how to recognise signs of good and poor health.
  • You'll learn how to maintain safe and hygienic animal housing environments.
  • You'll develop practical skills in feeding, handling, and monitoring animals.
  • You'll apply theory to real animal care tasks under supervision.

How you will learn

The course combines classroom-based theory sessions with practical, hands-on animal care work. You'll be assessed through a mix of written tasks and practical observation. Assessment covers your knowledge of animal welfare and your ability to carry out routine care tasks correctly and safely.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Common Leys Farm will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Animal Care Assistant, supports the daily care and welfare of animals in a range of settings.
  • Kennel or cattery assistant, looks after dogs and cats in boarding facilities.
  • Zoo or wildlife park keeper assistant, helps care for animals in visitor attractions.
  • Farm animal care worker, assists with the routine management of livestock.
  • Pet shop animal care assistant, handles and advises on the welfare of animals in retail.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management, a natural next step if you want to take on more responsibility in animal care roles.
  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Science, suited to those considering higher education or a specialist career in animal science.
  • Apprenticeship in Animal Care and Management, lets you earn while you develop your skills in a workplace setting.

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