Animal Care

Study Level

Entry Level 3

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Location

Great Yarmouth Campus

Duration

1-2 Years

FT / PT

Full-time

Please note, this course is aimed at students aged 16 to 18, however places for applicants aged 19 and over may be on offer subject to availability. Please contact admissions@eastcoast.ac.uk for more information.

Gain essential theoretical knowledge and practical experience for a successful career in animal care. This programme focuses on crucial areas like animal health and welfare, feeding, exotic species, and animal science. We also explore the impact of climate change on habitats, biodiversity and species.

You’ll be hands-on with the daily care of our diverse on-site animals, including rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, a leopard gecko, bearded dragon, and snakes, all under the guidance of industry experts, including a veterinary nurse.

You will also delve into the connection between zoonotic diseases and environmental issues, preparing you for further study in conservation education, rewilding, and carbon management on our degree programme.

You will also benefit from valuable work placements at diverse local animal care settings, such as Africa Alive, Norfolk Wildlife Trust, dog rescue centres, and local vet practices. Our students have even had the opportunity for a two-week trip to South Africa, participating in game counts and animal management on reserves.

Why study with us?

  • We offer a curriculum designed in partnership with industry professionals including trips to zoos and nature reserves both in the UK and abroad. These experiences will assist you to achieve your qualification and future career connections.
  • Excellent collaboration and placement opportunities across Norfolk and Suffolk, including Africa Alive, Colchester Zoo, RSPB Minsmere, Sea Life Great Yarmouth and the UmPhafa Nature Reserve in South Africa.
  • You will benefit from experience looking after our on-site animals where you will be responsible for health checking, monitoring behaviour and feeding and care.

Requirements

For Entry Level 3, you will need to have achieved Entry Level 2 in English.

For Level 1 entry, you will need to have achieved four GCSEs at grade 2 or above, including English and Maths.

For Level 2 entry, you will need to have achieved four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English and Maths.

For Level 3 entry, you will need to have achieved five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths.

Assessment

Level 1 and 2 courses are assessed through coursework, while our Level 3 course is assessed through exams and coursework.

Entry Level 3 are assessed through a completed portfolio of evidence.

Progression

You can progress to study FdSc Conservation Science and Animal Management (Wildlife and Zoo) through the University of Suffolk at East Coast College or other universities. You can also progress into an apprenticeship or employment in careers such as dog grooming, zookeeper, animal training or veterinary nurse, aquarist and more.

 

"At UmPhafa, the students are exposed to life on a game reserve from various perspectives by actually working alongside those that work here on a daily basis. Over the course of the trip, the students are exposed to many different game reserve areas to give them an idea of conservation through an educational experience. We were delighted to have East Coast College join us as it gave us the chance to educate and show the students interested in the field of conservation the practicalities of running a game reserve."

UmPhafa Nature Reserve

Amanda Warren