Level 2 Extended Certificate · Pearson · Full-Time · 1 year
Level 2 is for anyone looking to start a career in animal care. You'll work with a wide range of animals, including exotic species and grooming on real customer animals, and develop an overall understanding of the job roles and careers available. The course gives you the skills and knowledge to progress to further learning, or to enter the world of work in animal care.
Six areas of work across the year, from welfare to grooming. A clear route into Level 3.
Other courses you might be interested in:
Level 1 Level 1 Award Animal Care
Level 3 Level 3 Foundation Diploma Animal Management
Level 3 Level 3 Extended Diploma Animal Management
View all Animal Management courses →
You’ll work hands-on with a wide range of species at our on-campus Hub Animal Centre, which is home to over 100 species including snakes, tarantulas and guinea pigs across temperature-controlled vivariums. The Animal Centre uses the same diagnostic equipment found in top veterinary practices. Tutors with industry experience teach the work directly, grounded in how things are actually done.
The course covers six areas across the year: animal health and welfare, feeding and accommodation, behaviour and handling, working in the animal care industry, the care of exotic animals, and grooming. You’ll also get out on regular field visits to Valley Wildlife, working with larger animals including alpacas, donkeys, pigs, goats and sheep. By the end of the year you’ll have a real overall understanding of the job roles and careers in animal care, and the skills to progress.
Written assignments, research projects, and case studies that let you explore topics in depth.
Hands-on tasks and practical demonstrations in realistic working environments.
Job holders in this unit group care for animals held in kennels, stables, zoos and similar establishments, provide specialised training, grooming, clipping and trimming services for animals, and searches for […]
Veterinary nurses assist veterinarians in the treatment and care of sick or injured animals.
Most of your learning happens hands-on, at our on-campus Animal Centre and on regular off-site visits.
The Hub Animal Centre (on-campus)
Over 100 species across temperature-controlled vivariums. Snakes, tarantulas, guinea pigs and many more. Equipped with the same diagnostic tools used in top veterinary practices.
Field visits to Valley Wildlife
Regular visits to work with a wide variety of larger animals including alpacas, donkeys, pigs, goats and sheep
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.
These 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 listBursaries 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 needs to resit GCSE English or Maths, it's built into the timetable — not bolted on as an extra. They'll get structured support alongside their main course.
About student supportLevel
Level 2
Duration
1 year
Study Mode
Full-Time
Awarding Body
Pearson
Entry
GCSE Maths and English at Grade 3
Assessment
Coursework + Practical Assessment
Age
16+
Progression Routes
Route A: 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