Level 2 Animal Care Course in London – Capel Manor College Mottingham Campus

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

About this course

Level 2 Animal Care Course in London. Classes run at Capel Manor College Mottingham Campus, part-time during the day. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm this is the right level for you, and the centre will use it to plan your learning. The course covers the knowledge, practical skills, and hands-on experience needed to work in the animal care industry. It runs 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.

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 welfare legislation and best practice.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions and hands-on practical work at the college. Assessment is a mix of practical observations, assignments, and written tasks. Your tutors will assess your skills directly as you work with animals. If you're aged 16 to 18, you'll also attend a two-day preparation workshop before the course starts, where you'll meet your tutors and fellow students.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Animal care assistant: supporting daily care in kennels, catteries, or shelters
  • Veterinary receptionist: front-of-house role in a veterinary practice
  • Pet shop assistant: advising customers and caring for animals in store
  • Zoo keeper assistant: supporting animal care in wildlife or zoo settings
  • Animal rescue worker: hands-on welfare work in a rescue centre
  • Dog groomer: grooming and handling dogs in a salon or mobile setting

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management: the natural next step for those wanting to deepen specialist knowledge and take on more responsibility in animal care roles.
  • Level 3 Animal Care Apprenticeship: combines work-based training with further study, ideal if you secure a role in the sector.
  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management: a broader qualification for those considering higher education in animal science or veterinary nursing.