How to become Kennel worker
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- volunteering
- applying directly
College
You could take a college course, for example:
- Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Animal Care
- Level 2 Diploma in Animal Management
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or fewer GCSEs at grades 3 to 1 (D to G), or equivalent, for a level 1 course
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
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Apprenticeship
You can do an Animal Care and Welfare Assistant Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship.
You might also be able to apply for an Animal Care and Welfare Manager Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, if you're aiming to become a supervisor or manager at a kennels or cattery.
Entry requirements
There are no set entry requirements but it may help you to get in if you have:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Volunteering
Volunteering is a useful way to get experience and shows employers that you are enthusiastic and interested in working with animals.
You can find out about opportunities for volunteering in your area from:
Direct Application
There are no set qualifications for applying directly to become a kennel worker. Some employers may ask you for GCSE grades at 9 to 4 (A* to C), including maths and English.
Experience of working with animals will be useful.
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Career tips
Kennel work is very practical, so paid or unpaid experience of working with animals could improve your job prospects.
Further information
You can find out more about careers in animal care from the National Land Based College UK and The College of Animal Welfare.