Level 3 Animal Management Course in Paignton. Classes run at South Devon College, part-time during the day. This course is a top-up for learners who have already completed the Animal Management Technical Diploma at Level 3. It completes the two-year study pathway and leads to the full City and Guilds Level 3 qualification. The course runs over one year, with daytime animal management classes that fit around other commitments. It prepares you for university-level study or work in the animal care industry.
Who this course is for
If you’ve successfully completed the Animal Management Technical Diploma Level 3, this top-up course is your next step towards gaining the full City & Guilds Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Animal Management (1080). Designed to deepen your understanding and enhance your skills, this one-year course completes the two-year study pathway, preparing you for university-level study or employment in the animal care industry. Over the course of your studies, you’ll build a comprehensive foundation in animal management through a range of specialist and core units. These explore everything from animal biology and behaviour to welfare and nutrition, ensuring you graduate with a well-rounded and in-depth knowledge of the sector. The course is assessed through a combination of methods. Core units include an externally set, internally marked synoptic assignment and a formal exam marked by City & Guilds. Optional units are assessed via internally-marked assignments set at key points during the academic year, giving you plenty of opportunity to develop your academic and practical skills along the way. This programme is ideal if you’re planning to continue to higher education, pursue a university-level course such as a foundation or honours degree, or enter the workforce in areas such as animal welfare, conservation, veterinary care or zoological work. It’s also open to learners aged 19+ who are seeking an industry-relevant qualification to support a career change or to access university within a year.
What you will learn
You'll deepen your knowledge of animal care and management practices.
You'll develop advanced skills in animal health, welfare, and behaviour.
You'll build on the technical knowledge from your Level 3 Technical Diploma.
You'll study topics that prepare you for higher education in animal science or related fields.
You'll develop practical skills relevant to employment in the animal care industry.
How you will learn
You'll study through classroom-based sessions at South Devon College. Assessment methods for the City and Guilds Advanced Technical Extended Diploma typically include assignments, practical assessments, and portfolio work. The centre will confirm the full assessment schedule before you start.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. South Devon College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Animal care worker. Day-to-day care of animals in shelters or kennels.
Zoo keeper assistant. Supporting animal care in zoo or wildlife settings.
Veterinary care assistant. Supporting vets in clinical or practice environments.
Animal welfare officer. Inspecting and promoting animal welfare standards.
Pet shop or aquatics specialist. Expert animal care in retail settings.
Wildlife rehabilitation worker. Caring for injured or orphaned wild animals.
What you could study next
Foundation Degree in Animal Science or Animal Behaviour. A natural next step after this level 3 animal management qualification, leading toward a full honours degree.
BSc (Hons) in Animal Management or Animal Behaviour. University-level study building directly on the skills and knowledge from this course.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Animal Management. A work-focused higher education route for those preferring a vocational path.
