Free Level 3 Animal Management Course in Manchester. Classes run at Hopwood Hall College Middleton Campus, full-time during the day. The course takes one year to complete. You'll study animal biology, behaviour, health and welfare, and animal handling, building the practical and theoretical knowledge employers in the animal care sector look for. To start, you'll need at least four GCSEs at grade C or grade 4, including English, maths and science. A BTEC Level 2 Animal Care qualification is also accepted.
Who this course is for
Discover our range of courses at Hopwood Hall College, with entry requirements, progression and course information.
Entry requirements
In order to begin this course, students must have a minimum of 4 GCSEs grade C/4 to include, English, maths and science.
We also accept BTEC Level 2 Animal Care qualifications.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of animal biology and physiology
You'll learn how to assess and monitor animal health and welfare
You'll practise safe animal handling and restraint techniques
You'll study animal behaviour and how to recognise signs of stress or illness
You'll learn how to plan and provide appropriate nutrition for different species
You'll understand legislation and regulations that govern animal care
You'll develop skills in maintaining animal housing and environments
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based teaching combined with practical, hands-on sessions working with animals. Assessment includes written assignments, practical observations, and portfolio evidence demonstrating your competence across the units. Your tutors will assess your practical skills directly, and you'll build a body of evidence throughout the year.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Hopwood Hall College Middleton Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Zookeeper, working with animals in zoo or wildlife park settings
Animal care assistant, supporting daily care in kennels or catteries
Wildlife rehabilitation worker, caring for injured or orphaned wild animals
Animal technician, supporting research or laboratory animal care
Veterinary care assistant, working alongside vets in a practice
Farm animal technician, managing livestock health and welfare
Animal warden, enforcing animal welfare standards in a local authority role
What you could study next
Level 3 Diploma or NVQ in Animal Management, deepening practical competence for employment
Foundation Degree in Animal Science or Animal Behaviour, for those wanting to move into higher education
Veterinary Nursing Degree (BVetMed pathway), if you want to work in clinical animal care
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Animal Management, a work-focused Level 4 route into specialist roles
