Free Level 3 Animal Care Skills Course in York

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyABC awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Animal Care Skills Course in York. Classes run at Askham Bryan College, full-time during the day. The course runs for one year and builds the practical and theoretical knowledge you need to work in veterinary nursing and animal care. You'll study animal handling, health, and the skills that underpin veterinary nursing roles. Askham Bryan College works with veterinary practices across the North of England to support work placement requirements.

Who this course is for

For those looking to pursue a career in Veterinary Nursing

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical animal handling and care techniques.
  • You'll study animal health, anatomy, and common conditions.
  • You'll learn the principles that underpin veterinary nursing practice.
  • You'll gain an understanding of veterinary practice environments and procedures.
  • You'll build knowledge of animal welfare legislation and professional standards.
  • You'll complete work placement hours within a veterinary practice setting.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions combining theory and practical work. Assessment is likely to include written assignments, practical observations, and work placement evidence. The college's delivery team includes Registered Veterinary Nurses and Veterinary Surgeons. You'll also complete mandatory hours in an external veterinary practice placement arranged through the college.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Askham Bryan College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Animal nursing assistant, supporting vets in a clinical setting.
  • Veterinary receptionist, front-of-house role in a veterinary practice.
  • Kennel or cattery assistant, daily care of animals in a boarding facility.
  • Animal care technician, supporting research or laboratory animal welfare.
  • Wildlife rehabilitation assistant, caring for injured or orphaned wildlife.
  • Zoo or farm animal keeper, hands-on animal husbandry role.

What you could study next

  • VetSkills Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing, the qualification that can lead to registration with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons as a Veterinary Nurse.
  • Foundation Degree (FdSc) in Veterinary Nursing, a higher-level route for those wanting to deepen clinical knowledge and broaden career options in the profession.
  • Level 3 Animal Management qualifications, for those interested in broader animal science or conservation roles.

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