Free Level 3 Animal Care Skills Course in Ashford. Classes run full-time at Craftworks College - Stourside Farm, with additional sessions at Brogdale Farm in Faversham. This level 3 animal care skills qualification is for learners who already have some animal care knowledge, either from a previous course or hands-on experience. You'll work directly with a wide range of animals across the year, building your skills through six practical projects. The course runs over 11 months. Many learners go on to work on farms in Kent and the surrounding area.
Who this course is for
This course is for students who have come into the college with prior Animal Care learning and experience or who have progressed with us from a lower- level Animal Care course.
Entry requirements
Students will need to have some previous Animal Care knowledge. Students will be assessed upon entry to see whether they need any access arrangements to cope with the demands of a level 3 course.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical skills in handling and caring for a range of farm and small animals.
You'll learn how to monitor animal health and welfare.
You'll build knowledge of animal behaviour and how to respond to it.
You'll apply your skills through six project-based units that build on each other across the year.
You'll gain experience working with industry employers through project involvement and external work placements.
You'll develop personal skills to support your readiness for employment.
How you will learn
Learning is project-based, with six practical projects spread across the year. Each project builds on the skills and knowledge from the last. You'll work hands-on with animals at Stourside Farm and Brogdale Farm. Employers get involved in projects and support work experience placements. The course is delivered in a farm-based environment, giving you direct, practical experience throughout.
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
Farm animal care worker: hands-on daily care of livestock on a farm
Animal care assistant: supporting animal welfare in a farm or sanctuary setting
Kennel or cattery assistant: caring for animals in a boarding environment
Countryside ranger: supporting land and wildlife management
Animal welfare officer: monitoring and promoting animal welfare standards
Zoo or wildlife park keeper: caring for animals in a managed wildlife setting
What you could study next
Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management: a broader qualification covering animal science, behaviour, and management in more depth.
Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Animal Management: a higher-level route for those looking to move into supervisory or specialist roles in animal care.
Foundation Degree in Animal Science: university-level study for those wanting to go deeper into animal biology, welfare, or conservation.
