Level 2 Animal Care Skills Course in Selby. Classes run at Selby College, full-time during the day. Tuition and certification are free if you are 16 to 18 years old. If you are 19 or over, fees may apply. This one-year animal care skills course gives you hands-on experience in the college's own animal care facilities, working alongside industry professionals. You'll develop practical handling skills, teamwork, and organisational skills used day-to-day in the animal care industry. Entry requires four GCSEs at grade 2 or above, including English or Maths, or a Level 1 Diploma in Animal Care at Merit grade.
Who this course is for
Learners will have the opportunity to develop a range of skills required when working the animal care industry such as team work, practical handling and organisational skills. These skills are gained whilst working in a real life setting within our animal care facilities. During the course learners will practice those skills during their practical session and work with industry stakeholders. Our experienced animal care will support you with your studies whilst sharing their industry experience and knowledge making the course realistic and content current. You will learn through theory sessions, industry placement and practical hands on sessions.
Entry requirements
4 GCSEs at Grade 9-2, including English or Maths or equivalent.
OR
Level 1 Diploma in Animal Care with a Merit Grade.
What you will learn
You'll practise safe and confident handling of animals in a working facility.
You'll develop teamwork skills used in professional animal care settings.
You'll build organisational skills for managing animal care routines.
You'll learn how to work alongside industry stakeholders and professionals.
You'll gain experience of real working conditions in animal care.
How you will learn
You'll learn through practical sessions in Selby College's animal care facilities, working with animals directly. Classroom-based study supports your practical work. You'll be guided by experienced animal care staff who share their industry knowledge throughout the course. Assessment is based on your practical performance and the skills you demonstrate during your training.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Selby College will confirm anything else you need before you start. The provider notes that additional costs may apply for materials, equipment, visits, and residentials.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Animal care assistant, supporting daily care in kennels, catteries, or shelters
Veterinary receptionist, front-of-house role in a veterinary practice
Pet shop assistant, advising customers and caring for animals in store
Zoo keeper assistant, supporting animal husbandry in a zoo or wildlife park
Animal rescue worker, hands-on care at an RSPCA or rescue centre
Dog groomer, providing grooming and handling services
What you could study next
Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management: a natural next step if you want to move into supervisory or specialist roles in animal care.
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Science: broader scientific grounding, useful for those considering veterinary nursing or further study.
Level 2 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (pre-entry): a route toward qualifying as a veterinary nurse, subject to entry requirements at your chosen provider.
