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Free Level 2 Animal Care Course in Leigh

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

About this course

Free Level 2 Animal Care Course in Leigh. Classes run at Wigan and Leigh College Leigh Campus, full-time during the day over 35 weeks.

The course covers animal biology, health and welfare, handling and husbandry, and the needs of different species. You'll also look at how animal businesses operate, from pet shops and grooming salons to boarding kennels, sanctuaries, and zoos. Entry requires a minimum of five GCSE subjects graded 3 or above, including maths or English and science.

You'll finish with a City and Guilds Technical Certificate in Animal Care at Level 2.

Who this course is for

This Level 2 Technical Certificate in Animal Care is for you if you are looking to start a career within animal care industries. There are a growing number of career opportunities within this sector such as; pet shops, animal boarding, animal sanctuaries, animal training, pet grooming, zoos and farm/wildlife parks to name a few! You will gain an understanding of the skills and knowledge that are important when you are working with animals, or progressing to further learning at Level 3 and beyond. Working with animals is extremely rewarding, but it can require long hours with dedication and enthusiasm to be successful.

Entry requirements

A minimum of 5 GCSE subjects graded 9-3 including maths or English and science.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how to handle and restrain animals safely.
  • You'll study animal biology, anatomy, and basic health needs.
  • You'll understand how to monitor animal welfare and spot signs of illness.
  • You'll explore the care routines for a range of species, including domestic and exotic animals.
  • You'll learn about nutrition and feeding requirements for different animals.
  • You'll gain knowledge of how animal care businesses and facilities are run.
  • You'll develop skills in grooming and basic animal husbandry.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions and practical, hands-on activities with animals. Assessment is through a combination of written assignments, practical observations, and knowledge tests. Your progress will be assessed throughout the course rather than through a single final exam.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Wigan and Leigh College Leigh Campus 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 kennel.
  • Pet Shop Assistant, advises customers and cares for animals in a retail setting.
  • Animal Boarding Assistant, looks after pets while their owners are away.
  • Grooming Assistant, helps with bathing, brushing, and basic grooming tasks.
  • Zoo or Wildlife Park Assistant, supports keepers with animal feeding and welfare.
  • Animal Sanctuary Worker, cares for rescued or rehomed animals day to day.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management, a natural next step if you want to deepen your knowledge and take on more responsibility in animal care roles.
  • Level 3 Animal Care Apprenticeship, lets you earn while you learn in a real workplace setting.
  • Higher National Certificate in Animal Science, for those considering a degree-level route into veterinary nursing or animal science.
Apply on wigan-leigh.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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