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Level 2 Animal Care Course in Acton

Cost£2,922.00
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body
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About this course

Level 2 Animal Care Course in Acton. Classes run at Capel Manor College Gunnersbury Park Campus, part-time during the day, over one year. You'll need at least four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English and maths, plus GCSE science or an equivalent Level 1 qualification. The college will also consider relevant experience. This animal care qualification covers the knowledge and practical skills needed to work confidently with animals. If you're aged 16 to 18 years old, you'll attend a two-day preparation workshop before the course begins.

Who this course is for

This course will provide you with the knowledge, skills, and practical ability to confidently progress on to our Level 3 programmes or to kickstart a hands-on career in the animal care industry.

Entry requirements

At least four GCSEs at grade 3 and above (D and above) including English and maths. You will have studied GCSE science or an equivalent level 1 qualification. We will also consider your prior learning and any experience gained in an appropriate professional environment.

Before you start your course, if you are aged between 16 and 18 years, you will be required to attend a fun and practical two-day preparation workshop where you will meet your tutors and other students on your course. Furhter

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical animal handling skills across a range of species.
  • You'll learn how to monitor animal health and recognise signs of illness.
  • You'll study animal nutrition and how to plan appropriate feeding regimes.
  • You'll understand animal behaviour and how to meet welfare needs.
  • You'll learn how to maintain safe and hygienic animal housing environments.
  • You'll gain knowledge of relevant animal care legislation and best practice.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom sessions and hands-on practical work at the Gunnersbury Park Campus. Assessment includes practical observations, written assignments, and knowledge tests. Your tutors will assess your skills directly as you work with animals. The part-time daytime timetable spreads learning across the year at a manageable pace.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Capel Manor College Gunnersbury Park Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Animal care assistant: day-to-day care of animals in kennels or catteries.
  • Veterinary receptionist: front-of-house role in a veterinary practice.
  • Pet shop assistant: animal welfare and customer advice in retail.
  • Zoo keeper assistant: supporting animal care in a zoo or wildlife park.
  • Animal rescue worker: hands-on care at a rescue centre or shelter.
  • Grooming assistant: preparation and basic grooming of domestic animals.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management: the natural next step after this qualification, covering advanced animal care and management skills in greater depth.
  • Level 3 Animal Management (Extended Diploma): a broader programme suited to those considering higher education or specialist roles.
  • Higher education in Animal Science or Veterinary Nursing: university-level study for those aiming toward professional veterinary or research careers.
Apply on capel.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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