This course is designed for students with particular interests in animals and would like to learn more about their fascinating lives. It is designed to provide you with a wide range of specialist technical knowledge and practical skills to seek employment opportunities in either the pet industry, zoo-keeping, wildlife or working with dogs. You will gain extensive hands-on experience, caring for a diverse range of animals such as large animals, companions, rodents, and exotic animals. Your programme will consist of classroom based theoretical learning of the principles of animal care and welfare in addition to spending time on the anima care unit applying practical skills of animal husbandry You will also spend a minimum of 45 days on an industrial placement where you will work closely with a leading employer either every week or on a block placement to further enhance your knowledge, technical skills and behaviours for working in this exciting sector.
Students will develop knowledge and occupational competencies specific to Animal Care and Management in addition to a broad understanding of issues relevant to the sector, including:
• sustainability, including environmental legislation, sustainable development, climate change and waste management principles • The principles of biosecurity • Employment rights and responsibilities and progression opportunities within the sector • Ethical principles • The supply chain and principles of stock management • Business organisations, enterprise skills and project management • Characteristics protected by equality legislation • Communication • Principles of customer care • Finance • Health and safety
Grade 4 or above in English Language, Mathematics and Science GCSEs and two additional GCSEs at grade 4 or above. You must also have evidence of recent tetanus vaccination.
You can apply using our online application form and clicking the Apply Now button at the top of this page. For more information support with your enquiry or application please contact Student Services by emailing learn@dearne-coll.ac.uk or by calling 01709 513355.
On completion of this T Level, you could secure jobs such as zookeeper, dog handler or animal care worker/manager via full-time employment or apprenticeship or you can progress onto Higher Education.
"I came to study at Dearne Valley College as the teaching is excellent and has fantastic construction facilities."Brendan Marshall Bricklaying - Former Student of Rawmarsh Community School
We make every effort to ensure information within our online course directory is accurate and a true representation of the courses we are offering in 2024-2025. However, we do reserve the right to make changes if necessary.
