Level 3 Practical Animal Skills

To study this course you should have:

At least six GCSEs and an average grade of 5, including English and Maths at grade 4 or above.

OR

A Level 2 in my chosen subject and GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4 or above.

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.

On completing this course, there will be a wide range of progression routes available to you. These include, starting your career in a variety of Animal Management roles such as Zookeeper, Animal Care Worker or Dog Handler.

You can also progress onto University, giving you the chance to work towards specialist careers.

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.