Free Level 2 Animal Care Skills Course in Barnsley – Barnsley College Wigfield

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyABC awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Animal Care Skills Course in Barnsley. Classes run full-time at Barnsley College Wigfield, based at the Wigfield Farm campus. The course runs for one year and covers the practical care and welfare of a variety of animals. You'll build hands-on skills working directly with animals throughout the programme. To join, you'll need four GCSEs at grade 2 or 3, including English and maths, and you'll attend an interview.

Who this course is for

This one year study programme starts in September 2018 and aims to develop your practical skills, knowledge and understanding of the care and welfare for a variety of animals. Based at our Wigfield Farm campus, this one year study programme is for learners who wish to develop practical skills in the care and welfare of a variety of animals and prepare themselves to work in this interesting industry.

Course Content

The areas of study are:

•Promote and maintain the health and well-being of animals

•Deliver basic treatments to animals

•Select and prepare accommodation for animals

•Maintain animal accommodation

•Control and restrain animals

•Prepare feed for animals

•Provide feed and water to animals

There are several opportunities available, one of which is to carry on studying for a Level 3 Certificate in Practical Animal Care skills. Alternatively, you could progress onto the Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Work-based Animal Care.

Beyond college, there are many opportunities such as groomer, veterinary assistant, equine or stable work, kennel worker or pet shop assistant.You will achieve

Level 2 Certificate in Practical Animal Care Skills (Animal Care and Welfare)

Four GCSEs at grade 2/3 (E/D) including English and maths.

  • Acceptance onto the programme is also subject to an interview

Entry requirements

Four GCSEs at grade 2/3 (E/D) including English and maths.

  • Acceptance onto the programme is also subject to an interview

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical skills in the day-to-day care of a range of animals.
  • You'll learn how to promote and maintain animal health and well-being.
  • You'll understand the welfare needs of different animal species.
  • You'll gain knowledge of safe and responsible animal handling techniques.
  • You'll explore the animal care industry and the roles within it.

How you will learn

Learning is classroom and farm-based, with a strong focus on practical, hands-on work at the Wigfield Farm campus. You'll be assessed through a combination of practical tasks and knowledge-based work. The interview before you start helps the centre understand your experience and plan your learning.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Barnsley College Wigfield will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Animal care assistant, supporting the welfare of animals in a shelter or rescue centre
  • Kennel or cattery assistant, caring for dogs and cats in a boarding facility
  • Farm animal care worker, supporting livestock welfare on a farm
  • Zoo or wildlife park keeper assistant, helping with daily animal care
  • Pet shop assistant, advising customers and caring for animals in store
  • Veterinary receptionist, supporting a vet practice front of house

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management, a natural next step that deepens your knowledge and opens more senior roles in animal care.
  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management, a broader qualification if you want to explore animal science, behaviour, or conservation in more depth.
  • Apprenticeship in Animal Care and Management, combining work and study for hands-on career development.