Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in
Animal Management
This two year course (equivalent of up to 3 A levels) is designed to give you the practical skills and knowledge needed for a huge variety of jobs in animal care and related industries or for higher level study at university. As part of the course you will be assessed by a variety of exams and controlled assessments.
You’ll complete extensive work experience, along with the opportunity to study a wide range of specialist units in animal science, business and industry related subjects.
To prepare you for the practical industry you will be entering into, you will be required to carry out practical sessions each week. This could of consist of husbandry, handling and technical skills.
What will I study?
- Practical animal accommodation
- Practical animal feeding
- Animal handling and safe working
- Animal welfare and breed development
- Animal biology
- Animal nutrition
- Animal health
- Animal anatomy and physiology
- Zoo animal health and husbandry
- Ecology
- Animal breeding and genetics
- Exotic animal health and husbandry (option)
- Work placement (min 150 hours)
- Functional Skills or GCSE in English and Maths depending on previous qualifications
How long will it take?
- 2 years, full-time (1 year option available)
What qualifications do I need to start?
- At least 4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above which must include English or Maths and Science
- Relevant Level 2 in Animal Care at Merit (with Biology unit at Merit)
- A keen interest in animals and ideally 2 weeks practical work placement
What qualifications will I gain?
- Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Animal Management (720) (equivalent to 2 A Levels)
- Functional Skills or GCSE in English and Maths depending on previous qualifications
Course options after this programme
- Foundation Degree in Animal Management (Behaviour and Welfare) or Zoo Management
Career options
- Pet store or kennels or cattery manager
- Animal care technician
- Animal rescue centre staff
- Guide dog trainer
- Trainee zookeeper
“I enjoyed so many experiences and opportunities at Reaseheath. I was encouraged to try different things and to develop my own unique skills set.
“Becoming a Reaseheath Zoo guide and getting involved in summer schools made me think seriously about becoming an educator, specialising in natural history and conservation. It’s really important that we inspire the next generation to care for the natural world.
“Whilst I was an undergraduate I gained a Youth Leadership Award, and I also become Vice Chair and then Chair of Chester Zoo’s Youth Board. We were tasked with helping to shape the zoo’s future and strengthen its appeal to teenagers and young adults. I’ve now set up a forest school and I also work as a Wildlife Trust educator, so I feel I’ve achieved a lot.”