Level 1 Level 1 Award · Pearson · Full-Time · 1 year
If you love animals and you want a career working with them, this is your starting point. You'll work hands-on with a wide range of species at our on-campus Hub Animal Centre, learning to promote their health and wellbeing while working safely. No prior animal qualification is needed. Our tutors have industry experience, so what you learn is grounded in how the work is actually done.
Your introduction to working with animals. No prior animal qualification needed.
Other courses you might be interested in:
Level 2 Level 2 Extended Certificate Animal Care
Level 3 Level 3 Foundation Diploma Animal Management
Level 3 Level 3 Extended Diploma Animal Management
View all Animal Management courses →
This is a practical course. You’ll work with a wide range of animal species at our on-campus Hub Animal Centre, which is home to over 100 species across temperature-controlled vivariums and uses the same diagnostic equipment found in top veterinary practices. Snakes, tarantulas, guinea pigs and many more, you’ll learn to handle, feed and care for them safely. Tutors with industry experience teach the practical work that underpins everything else in animal care.
You’ll also get out on regular field visits to Valley Wildlife, working with larger animals like alpacas, donkeys, pigs, goats and sheep. The focus is on the fundamentals of the work: safe and effective working practices in land-based industries, maintaining animal health and well-being, and the routines of feeding and watering. By the end of the year you’ll have a real foundation in the work, and be ready to take on Level 2.
Written assignments, research projects, and case studies that let you explore topics in depth.
Hands-on tasks and practical demonstrations in realistic working environments.
Formal examinations to test your knowledge and understanding under timed conditions.
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Real Animals, Real Facilities
The Hub Animal Centre (on-campus)
Over 100 species across temperature-controlled vivariums. Snakes, tarantulas and guinea pigs among them. Equipped with the same diagnostic tools used in top veterinary practices.
Field visits to Valley Wildlife
Over 100 species across temperature-controlled vivariums. Snakes, tarantulas and guinea pigs among them. Equipped with the same diagnostic tools used in top veterinary practices.
Off-site practical sessions and work experience
Built into your year as part of how the course is delivered.
Student Voice
Learning health and safety, cleaning and handling animals, and working at the farm has helped me prepare for future experiences within animal management.
Bursaries are available, and free meals are provided for those who qualify. If cost is a concern, there's help — and it's straightforward to apply.
Financial support infoIf your child has additional learning needs, our support team works with them from day one. Adjustments are put in place early so they can get the most out of their course.
About learning supportThese are nationally recognised qualifications with real academic weight. Your child will develop practical skills and knowledge that employers and universities genuinely value.
See the full unit listLevel
Level 1
Duration
1 year
Study Mode
Full-Time
Awarding Body
Pearson
Entry
GCSE Maths and English at Grade 1 or 2
Assessment
Coursework + Practical Assessment + Exams
Age
16+
Progression Routes
Route A: Level 1 Award Animal Care → Level 2 Extended Certificate Animal Care → Level 3 Foundation Diploma → Level 3 Extended Diploma → University, or industry
Applications for September 2026 are open. Apply online in 10 minutes.
Questions? Call free 0800 358 7575 or email dcinfocentre@don.ac.uk