School Leaver

Start Date: Duration: Level: Study mode: Course location: Course Type:
September 2 Years Level 3 Full-Time Kirkley Hall Campus Full-time Vocational Apply Enquire

What’s it all about?

Immerse yourself in the world of animal care, behaviour, and welfare through a comprehensive blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, this programme offers an ideal pathway to transform your enthusiasm into a rewarding career. Benefit from strong industry connections through work experience and skills-building modules designed to make you industry-focused and future-ready. Utilise outstanding resources daily, including a working zoological collection, farm, equine unit, and kennel block. Benefit from strong industry connections, participating in work placements that enhance your practical skills and employability. This programme offers a robust foundation for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in the animal care sector.

You will need 5 GCSE's at grade 4-9 which must include Maths, English and Science and appropriate animal husbandry experience. A relevant Level 2 qualification would also be considered alongside GCSE Maths and English.

Study level Cost Additional fees
16-18 Free You may be required to pay for trips and visits. You will be required to purchase a uniform and PPE when studying this course. Information will be provided at enrolment. You will be required to purchase your own stationery and a file to keep your work in.

Your progress will be assessed by a range of stimulating methods including exams, synoptic assessments (practical and theory), written assignments, course work (projects, essays, tests, presentations).

GCSE Maths and English are vital stepping stones for your academic and professional journey. Achieving a good grade in these subjects not only fulfils most college entry requirements but also equips you with essential skills critical in almost every field. Whether you're calculating percentages in business, crafting compelling arguments, or simply managing daily tasks, these core subjects enhance your problem-solving and communication abilities, setting a solid foundation for your future studies and career success. Start your college course with confidence by securing these key qualifications.

Placement opportunities are an integral part of our curriculum, designed to bridge the gap between academic studies and the professional world. These experiences enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real workplace challenges, enhancing their academic learning with practical skills. Tailored to complement your studies, placements are offered in a range of industries, from innovative local startups to leading global corporations.
By actively participating in these structured and supportive environments, students not only observe but also contribute meaningfully to the workings of their chosen field. This hands-on approach boosts confidence and provides a competitive advantage in the job market. The insights and experience gained are often transformative, arming students with the necessary tools for a successful and dynamic career. These opportunities are crafted to ensure you emerge as a well-rounded professional, ready to make significant contributions in your future endeavours.

At Northumberland College our commitment to your future goes beyond the classroom. We are dedicated to providing you with real-world experiences and industry insights that will prepare you not just to enter, but to excel in your chosen field. Here’s how we connect you with the industry:

• Placement Opportunities: Dive into your future career with our hands-on placement opportunities. These are not just work experiences, but gateways to potential employment and invaluable learning. They’re a core part of our courses, offering you a chance to apply academic theories in real-world scenarios.
• Networking Events: Build your professional network early. Our placement and careers fairs are your chance to meet and impress potential employers. These events are designed to help you forge significant industry connections that can enhance your career prospects. Attend talks, engage in discussions, and explore apprenticeship opportunities with employers who are eager to meet fresh talent.
• Expert Insights: Stay ahead of the curve with talks from specialist speakers. These industry leaders share the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field, giving you the inside track on what to expect and how to thrive.
• Skills Competitions: Showcase your abilities in our exciting skills competitions. Held throughout the academic year, these competitions are not just about winning – they are about learning, growing, and pushing your limits. They offer a fun, competitive environment to enhance what you learn in class and develop essential industry skills.

The aim of the course is to develop skills and knowledge in animal management for the husbandry of a range of animal species, through a series of theory/practical lessons and industry placement, to allow you to progress to higher education or a career in the animal sector.

You will study several modules during this course, including:

Year 1:

- Health & Safety
- Work Experience
- Health & Husbandry
- Feeding & Nutrition
- Behaviour
- Biology
- Welfare & Breeding

Year 2:

- Wildlife & Ecology
- Wildlife Rehab
- Exotics
- Zoo Collections
- Aquatics
- Specialist Project

Northumberland College Zoo - Northumberland College

What’s next?

Upon completing the Level 3 Animal Management course, students can advance to a Foundation Degree at Kirkley Hall, focusing on areas like animal welfare, equine management, or wildlife conservation. Alternatively, they may pursue university degrees in zoology, animal behaviour, or conservation. Career opportunities include roles such as assistant zoo keeper, dog groomer, or veterinary care assistant.

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Investing in your future with outstanding new facilities.

 

Why choose Northumberland College?

Rated Outstanding in all areas by Ofsted

2024

Top land-based college in the North East

100% pass rate for equine management and floristry courses

Our extensive re-development programme will create outstanding new facilities