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Level 3 Advanced Technical Diploma in Animal Management (Adult Course)

This course is suitable for students aged 19 and over.

This course is designed to provide you with a wide range of specialist skills and knowledge that will equip you for various employment opportunities or further learning and training within the animal care industry.

During this qualification you will learn how to work safely handle and maintain the health and welfare of various animals. You will also advance your knowledge of animal behaviour, training, nursing and feeding and nutrition.

When will I start the course and how long will it take?

The course will start in September and will take one year to complete. You will attend College three days per week, from 9.00am - 4.30pm.

The course takes place at St Helens College, STEM Centre Campus, St Helens WA9 1TT.

What will I study?

The course is delivered via a mixture of both theory and practical methods, combined with a range of projects and assessments including practical classes, classroom lectures, offsite visits and case study exercises.

You may study a variety of units including:

  • Behaviour and communication
  • Welfare
  • Health and safety
  • Work experience
  • Health and husbandry
  • Animal feeding and nutrition
  • Biology
  • Training
  • Vet nursing
  • Small animal rehab

How is it assessed?

During your course, you will be assessed through a combination of assignments, portfolio building and exams.

Do I need any previous qualifications to start this course?

You should have four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English, maths and science. and preferably a minimum or five days voluntary experience within the animal sector. It is also preferable that applicants have gained a minimum of five days voluntary experience within the animal sector, in order ensure that they are fully prepared for the expectations of the study programme and gain a realistic insight of the animal industry.

What are the course fees?

The course fee is £4,425. You may be eligible for funding depending on your personal circumstances and subject to a fee assessment during the enrolment process. For further details, please visit our dedicated Adult Financial support page.

If you are aged 19 or over, you could also apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover your course fees enabling you to study now, pay later. Loan eligibility isn't dependent on income or employment status and there is no credit check. Loan repayments don't start until you have finished your course and earn over £25,000 per year. For more information, please visit our dedicated Advanced Learner Loan page.

What can I go on to do once I have completed this course?

Once you have successfully completed this course, you may wish to gain employment within a zoo, a wildlife conservation park, veterinary practice or animal rescue centre.

Alternatively, you may wish to progress on to an Animal Management Foundation Degree or other Higher Education programmes.

Are you ready to apply?

Are you

ready to apply?

Simply fill in our online form here.

However, if you still have questions in relation to this course and wish to receive further information, please submit your enquiry here.


Please note, we have taken our utmost care to describe and show course information as accurately as possible. St Helens College reserves the right to amend, remove and add courses in the future. This information cannot be considered contractual and advertised course fees are subject to change.

Ref: Nicola James

Knowsley Safari Park
St Helens Council
Merseyside Dogs Home

Inspiring Success

Picture of our student, Ellie

“My tutors are so passionate about animal care, so I really looked forward to coming into College every day!”

Ellie, Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma

Read Ellie's full story
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