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Level 2 Animal Care Course in Ilkeston

Cost£3,456.00
Duration31 weeks
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Level 2 Animal Care Course in Ilkeston. Classes run at Derby College Broomfield Hall Campus, full-time during the day over 31 weeks.

You'll study in the classroom and work hands-on with animals at the college's animal unit. Work placements in the animal care industry are also part of the course. Units cover health and welfare, animal behaviour and handling, feeding and accommodation, animal biology, British wildlife, grooming, and health and safety.

You'll finish with a City and Guilds Technical Certificate in Animal Care.

Who this course is for

This course is ideal for anyone who would like to start a career within animal care industries. The course covers the skills you will need to progress to further learning and training, or to enter the world of work in the animal care industries. You will build upon your practical skills and theory knowledge through working with a range of animals on our animal unit, attending classroom lessons, and through work placements in the animal care industry.

Entry requirements

You need one of the following:Introductory Diploma in a related subjectORThree GCSEs at grade 3 (D) or above in English, Science and MathsYou should also have a standard of English and maths equivalent to Functional Skills Level 1 if you are progressing from a Level 1 qualification.  If you are a mature learner, we may be able to take into consideration your previous experience in your chosen subject.You will be interviewed by a member of animal care staff to make sure this course is right for y

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how to care for animals' health and welfare.
  • You'll practise feeding, housing, and accommodating a range of animals.
  • You'll develop skills in animal behaviour and safe handling.
  • You'll study animal biology and British wildlife.
  • You'll learn about animal breeds and grooming techniques.
  • You'll apply health and safety practices in animal care settings.
  • You'll gain experience through work placements in the animal care industry.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom lessons and practical sessions at the college's animal unit. Work placements in the animal care industry form part of the course. An interview with animal care staff takes place before you start, to confirm the course is right for you.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Derby College Broomfield Hall Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Animal Care Assistant, supports the daily care of animals in a shelter or rescue centre.
  • Kennel Assistant, looks after dogs in boarding kennels or rescue facilities.
  • Cattery Assistant, cares for cats in a boarding or rescue setting.
  • Veterinary Receptionist, handles client bookings and supports a veterinary practice.
  • Pet Shop Assistant, advises customers and cares for animals in a retail setting.
  • Zoo Keeper Assistant, helps with animal care and welfare at a zoo or wildlife park.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management, a deeper qualification for those wanting to move into supervisory or specialist roles.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (pre-entry), a step toward qualifying as a veterinary nurse.
  • Apprenticeship in Animal Care and Management, lets you earn while you develop skills on the job.
Apply on derby-college.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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