Free Level 2 Animal Care Skills Course in Ashford. Classes run at Craftworks College - Stourside Farm, full-time during the day. The course runs for 11 months and covers the practical skills you need to care for animals safely and confidently. You'll develop hands-on knowledge across a range of animal care tasks, supported by English and maths learning alongside your main studies.
Who this course is for
Young people who want to learn how to take care of animals.
What you will learn
You'll learn how to handle and restrain animals safely.
You'll understand the health and welfare needs of different animal species.
You'll practise feeding, grooming, and routine care tasks.
You'll learn to recognise signs of illness or distress in animals.
You'll develop skills in maintaining clean and safe animal housing.
You'll build knowledge of animal behaviour and how to respond to it.
How you will learn
You'll learn through practical, hands-on sessions at Craftworks College - Stourside Farm. Classroom-based learning is combined with direct work with animals on site. Assessment is through practical observation and skills demonstration. You'll also complete work related to English and maths as part of your programme.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Craftworks College - Stourside Farm will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Animal care assistant: supporting daily care in kennels, catteries, or shelters.
Kennel or cattery worker: hands-on care for dogs and cats.
Animal rescue worker: assisting at an animal rescue or rehoming centre.
Pet shop assistant: advising customers and caring for in-store animals.
Zoo or wildlife park keeper assistant: entry-level keeper support roles.
Veterinary receptionist: front-of-house role in a veterinary practice.
What you could study next
Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management: deepens your knowledge and opens doors to supervisory or specialist roles in animal care.
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Science: a broader qualification suited to those considering higher education in animal science or veterinary nursing.
Veterinary nursing access programmes: if you want to move toward a clinical animal care career, some colleges offer bridging courses from Level 2.
