T Level in Animal Care and Management

The Animal Care and Management T Level is designed for students interested in animals and seeking to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to work in the animal care industry. This T Level provides a comprehensive understanding of animals with a focus on practical skills and hands-on experience and is equivalent to three A-levels, making it a pathway to higher education options such as degree programs in animal science, veterinary nursing, and zoology.

Five GCSEs at grade 5 or above including Science and Maths and English at grade 4.

You will study core content including Sustainability, Biosecurity, Working in agriculture, Environmental and Animal Care Sector, Ethics, Supply Chain, Business, Finance, Communication, and Health and Safety. In the occupational specialism, you will cover Health and Safety, the Environment, Animal Biology, Animal Welfare, Behaviour and Training. The course also involves a work placement of about 45 days.

Your learning will combine classroom theory and practical learning and include an industry placement. The placement will provide you with a real experience of the workplace.

Your core knowledge and skills will be assessed through exams and an employer-set project. You will work with your tutor to decide when you are ready to be assessed on the core. Assessment of occupational specialist knowledge and skills will vary depending on the occupation. It may involve tests, practical assignments and projects. Your occupational specialist knowledge and skills will be assessed in the second year.

You will have the industry knowledge and experience to progress into roles like: Animal care worker, Assistance dog trainer, Zookeeper, Dog handler, Horse riding instructor, or go onto an apprenticeship or higher education. Speak to your careers adviser to find out more. You can also use this T Level to progress to a related higher-level apprenticeship or course of study at a higher level, including a university degree.