Quick facts
| Qualification type | Level 3 Advanced Technical Diploma |
| Duration | 1 year (potential to 'top up' to 2 years) |
| Study times |
You will be expected to be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week, from 9:15 to 4:00. Your timetable will be confirmed at induction but will include both theory and practical sessions. |
| Entry requirements |
GCSEs in Maths, English and Science along with two other GCSEs at Grade 4 OR Level 2 Functional Skills in Maths and English, plus GCSE Science and 2 others at Grade 4. |
| Campus |
West Suffolk College Sixth Form campus, Bury St Edmunds |
| Work placements | Yes (150 hours) |
Is it for me?
What you'll learn
- Principles of Health and Safety
- Undertake and Review Work Related Experience in the Land-based Industries
- Animal Health and Husbandry
- Animal Feeding and Nutrition
- Animal Behaviour and Communication
- Biological Systems of Animals
- Animal Welfare and Breeding
- Exotic Animal Health and Husbandry
- Animal Training
- Animal Nursing
Work experience placements
Completion of a minimum of 150 hours of work-related experience within the animal sector is a mandatory requirement for achieving qualification in our programme. We strongly advise applicants to start their search for a work placement promptly following their interview with the course team. While the responsibility to secure a placement rests with the student, our dedicated work placement team is available to provide additional support throughout the process. These placements should ideally align with their career aspirations, in areas such as local kennels or catteries, canine creches, pet shops, or veterinary practices. It is recommended that students dedicate one day a week to their placement, with designated Work Placement weeks integrated into the academic calendar to facilitate the completion of longer block placements. This hands-on experience is fundamental to your academic journey and future professional endeavors. Through active participation in real-world scenarios, you will have the opportunity to apply classroom-acquired knowledge and skills, enriching your learning experience and enhancing your career prospects.
Assessment
This course is assessed using a variety of different methods including a Mandatory Theory Exam (40% of the qualification grade), a Synoptic Assessment (60% of the qualification grade), a Biological Systems test, written assignments, oral presentations (nursing and training) and practical assessments.
Further study
- Animal Management Advanced Technical Extended Diploma Level 3 Year 2
Example careers
- Veterinary Nurse
- Veterinary Physiotherapist
- Veterinary Surgeon
- Veterinary Behaviourist
- Zookeeper Zoologist
- Marine Biologist
- Animal Trainer
- Wildlife Ranger
- Conservationist
- Animal Welfare Officer
- Environmental Health Officer
- Dog Groomer
- Pet Sitter/Walker
- Pet Shop Assistant
- Environmental Health Officer
Days & times
Starting September 2025