Course Overview
The Level 2 Technical Diploma in Animal Care is a one-year study programme that has been designed to introduce learners who want to start a career in Animal Care. It has been designed to enable learners to develop the skills and behaviours that will provide them with the best opportunity to be successful working within the industry or, to progress further with their educational studies. Learners will study a variety of units, from Animal Biology to Animal Behaviour, that will provide them with an overview of the concepts of animal management. Alongside their course, learners will also enhance their broader skills in literacy, numeracy and digital skills, which will be invaluable in supporting progression. Learners will be supported throughout their journey by a team of highly-experienced lecturers, animal instructors, learning support and wellbeing staff.
The units listed below reflect the subjects currently offered on this course but are subject to change:
- Practical Animal Health
- Introduction to Animal Biology and Health
- Animal Care Work Placement
- Animal Welfare
- Animal Behaviour Assessment and Safe Handling
- Feeding, Accommodating and Moving Animals
Learning for this course will take place via a combination of both theory and practical-based sessions within the classroom and the extensive Animal Collection at Hartpury College. During practical sessions, you will get to work with over 70 different species of animals including invertebrates, reptiles, mammals, aquatic and avian species. Classroom learning will be delivered via a combination of taught lessons, group work, independent research and the incorporation of guest speakers. As part of your course, you will also be required to undertake a work experience placement (number of hours dependent on course) within the animal industry to work alongside experts to develop your knowledge and skills within your chosen field of interest.
Assessment will take place via both internal and external assessment methods, including written assignments, oral presentations, practical and the completion of two externally set examinations, one for Animal Welfare and one for Introduction to Animal Biology and Health. Support is available for all learners accessing the course in the form of 1:1 tutorials, learning support and exam arrangements.
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Course Overview
Course information
The Level 2 Technical Diploma in Animal Care is a one-year study programme that has been designed to introduce learners who want to start a career in Animal Care. It has been designed to enable learners to develop the skills and behaviours that will provide them with the best opportunity to be successful working within the industry or, to progress further with their educational studies. Learners will study a variety of units, from Animal Biology to Animal Behaviour, that will provide them with an overview of the concepts of animal management. Alongside their course, learners will also enhance their broader skills in literacy, numeracy and digital skills, which will be invaluable in supporting progression. Learners will be supported throughout their journey by a team of highly-experienced lecturers, animal instructors, learning support and wellbeing staff.
What you’ll learn
The units listed below reflect the subjects currently offered on this course but are subject to change:
- Practical Animal Health
- Introduction to Animal Biology and Health
- Animal Care Work Placement
- Animal Welfare
- Animal Behaviour Assessment and Safe Handling
- Feeding, Accommodating and Moving Animals
How you’ll learn
Learning for this course will take place via a combination of both theory and practical-based sessions within the classroom and the extensive Animal Collection at Hartpury College. During practical sessions, you will get to work with over 70 different species of animals including invertebrates, reptiles, mammals, aquatic and avian species. Classroom learning will be delivered via a combination of taught lessons, group work, independent research and the incorporation of guest speakers. As part of your course, you will also be required to undertake a work experience placement (number of hours dependent on course) within the animal industry to work alongside experts to develop your knowledge and skills within your chosen field of interest.
How you’ll be assessed
Assessment will take place via both internal and external assessment methods, including written assignments, oral presentations, practical and the completion of two externally set examinations, one for Animal Welfare and one for Introduction to Animal Biology and Health. Support is available for all learners accessing the course in the form of 1:1 tutorials, learning support and exam arrangements.
What can you do after this course?
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Three Grade 3 or above which must include English, Maths and Science.
You should expect some small costs for books and stationery. There will also be opportunities to take part in trips related to the topics you are studying. IThese trips incur a charge/are covered by the educational visits fee.
Students are required to pay a non-refundable educational visits fee at enrolment.
Students are required to refer to the kit list as they will be required to wear Personal Protective Equipment while working within the animal collection.
Is there an opportunity for students to study English and/or Maths alongside their course to improve on their grades?
Yes, students who achieved a Grade 3 or lower at GCSE will be required to attend lessons in these subjects in preparation for sitting exams/assessments at the end of the academic year. Learners will either be entered for Functional Skills or GCSE.
Will learners be able to progress to study a Level 3 qualification on completion of the Level 2?
Yes, students who successfully achieve the Level 2 Technical Diploma in Animal Care, with an MM, will be interviewed to progress onto the Level 3 Extended Certificate in Animal Management.
How much does the course cost?
If you're a UK student under the age of 19 enrolling in full-time A-level courses at Hartpury College, you typically won't need to pay tuition fees. For further information, details for those over 19 year-of-age and international students, visit: Finance | Hartpury College
Why study Animal at Hartpury College?
Our lecturers have worked as animal trainers, coaches, behaviourists and veterinary professionals – so you’ll benefit from their considerable experience in the commercial animal industry. We offer a dedicated animal environment for you to gain the practical skills, qualifications and experience that employers are looking for.
Why study Animal at Hartpury College?
Our lecturers have worked as animal trainers, coaches, behaviourists and veterinary professionals – so you’ll benefit from their considerable experience in the commercial animal industry. We offer a dedicated animal environment for you to gain the practical skills, qualifications and experience that employers are looking for.
Outstanding
Rated 'Ofsted Outstanding in all areas' for academic and curriculum-related provision
99.8% pass-rate
With a 99.2% BTEC pass rate (Hartpury College 2025), our outcomes for students are exceptional.
Living in on-site college accommodation at Hartpury, you’ll be part of a vibrant and international community of students of all ages who share their experience of life at college and university together on one campus.
The Hartpury Certificate is an enrichment programme designed to support our students to grow.
A-levels or a diploma?
Are you unsure about whether A-levels or a BTEC Diploma are the right choice for you? Find out the key differences and which qualification would best suit your learning style and your career and further study ambitions on our dedicated page.
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