Level 2 Diploma in Animal Care

This pathway gives you time to develop skills in your chosen area and improve your English and maths to a grade 4 or equivalent. Reaching this level will help you have more opportunities in the future, like getting a skilled job, an apprenticeship, or moving on to a Level 3 course.

To join this programme, you’ll need the equivalent of 4 GCSEs at grades 2 to 1, including English and maths at Level 1 or higher.

The assessments are designed to test your knowledge of the animal care sector and ensure you are ready for your next steps.

Your final grade will be calculated through a combination of practical assignments, coursework completed throughout the year, and an externally set assessment.

After completing this Level 2 course, many students choose to progress onto further study in animal care or related land-based subjects.

Your options include joining our T Level in Animal Management, designed so you refine your skills, develop a deeper understanding of the sector and take part in an extended industry placement.

You will be also supported to enter employment after successful completion of this Level 2 course, from entry-level roles to apprenticeships.

Former learner, Paige, is now looking at her next steps:

“Thanks to my course, I know I want to help people in the future and work alongside animals, so I’m thinking about going into animal therapy.

“My favourite animals have to be the snakes. They’re so docile and I feel like I’ve built up a close partnership with them. This really inspired my goals and what I want to work towards.”

There are no fees for this course if you are under 18.

If you are aged 19 or above, please contact us for more information about fees and funding.

From working with industry partners locally, to exploring specialist animal environments further afield, we offer a variety of trips that will give you a deeper insight into animal management and the wider land-based sector.

Recent highlights include collaborating with Lees Court Estate, a stunning 6,900-acre property, trips to the New Forest to complete reptile surveys and explore natural habitats, and a visit to Tom Mitchell Equine.

By taking part in trips and working with local employers, you will discover different areas of the industry and begin to shape the direction you would like to pursue after your time at College.

We also visit universities locally and further afield, so that you can explore higher education, experience university life and see what courses are available to support your next steps.

Communication, teamwork and leadership skills are also developed through social action projects that take place throughout the year. These projects help to make a positive difference locally, with previous examples including conservation-focused and animal welfare activities.

Every year we also open up our Spring Lane Campus, inviting the community to meet our animals and explore our facilities, while raising money for organisations across East Kent. During these events, you become the expert, demonstrating your knowledge and understanding of the wildlife and animals you have learnt to care for during your studies.

You will be required to wear PPE for practical activities, which you may need to buy prior to joining the course.

More details, full costs and financial support can be discussed at an Applicant Day.