Advanced Technical Diploma in Animal Management – Level 3

If you are passionate about working with animals—whether companion pets, farm livestock, zoo species or wildlife—this course offers an ideal pathway into the animal care and animal science industries. At Broomfield Hall, students gain the in‑depth knowledge, practical skills and hands‑on experience needed to succeed in a wide range of animal‑related careers. 

 This qualification is particularly suited to motivated school leavers who want to develop their confidence, competence and understanding of professional animal management. Applicants typically hold GCSE grade 4 or above in English, maths, science and one additional subject, reflecting the academic foundation required for success on the programme. In order to support the main programme of study, future progression and broader life skills, students will also continue to develop their abilities in maths and English throughout the course. 

 A key feature that sets this programme apart is the compulsory one day a week industry work placement, which enables learners to apply their knowledge in real world settings and develop essential employability skills. Students also participate in regular animal care and husbandry tasks on the campus animal unit, ensuring a strong practical grounding. 

Applicants should be highly motivated, demonstrate a genuine interest in the animal management industry, and be prepared to engage fully with both the academic and practical demands of the programme. A place on the course is subject to a successful interview, during which the applicant must demonstrate why they wish to study this course and how it aligns with their future aspirations, in addition to evidencing one of the following entry routes:  

 A minimum of four GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including English, Maths and Science  
OR 

A minimum of a Merit in a Level 2 Diploma or Technical Certificate in Animal Care  

 Students must be able to attend the course fulltime and complete a compulsory in year work placement, which forms an essential part of the programme. The course also requires a level of physical fitness, as you will be working hands on with a variety of small and large animal species and completing work experience activities throughout the year.  

 Progression to Year 2 requires achieving a Pass or above in Year 1. At the end of the first year, students will select a specialist pathway for their second year in discussion with their personal tutor, taking into account individual strengths, career aspirations and performance on the programme 

Teaching is delivered through a blend of practical and theory based sessions, giving learners a comprehensive understanding of the animal management sector. This makes the course ideal for those looking to enhance their existing animal care skills, broaden their career prospects and engage in enrichment activities that further extend their experience. 

In Year 1 the course will cover subjects like: 

• Animal feeding and nutrition
• Animal biology
• Animal training
• Work-related experience
• Animal behaviour and communications
• Pet allied services
• Animal welfare and breeding
• Pet store management
• Health and safety
• Animal health and husbandry

In Year 2 of the programme, we offer 2 pathways: Animal and Zoo. Students will make a choice at the end of the 1st year, and this will be subject to performance on the course and tutor approval. 

Learning will take place on site, through a blend of theory based lessons and practical, hands on sessions, giving you the opportunity to apply knowledge directly within the animal management environment. Attendance, engagement and completion of independent study—such as homework and revision—are essential for success. 

You may also be expected to participate in group work, presentations, practical demonstrations and professional discussions, helping you develop confidence, communication skills and industry relevant behaviours. 

A compulsory in year work placement, undertaken one day per week during term time, forms a key part of the programme. This placement is fully integrated into the academic year and allows you to gain valuable industry experience. You will also work hands on with a wide range of small and large animal species throughout the year as part of your practical training and work experience duties. 

You will be required to provide your own essential equipment for both practical and classroom-based activities, including: 

• Steel toe capped boots or wellingtons
• A Derby College bottle green laboratory coat for practical sessions (available to purchase at enrolment)
• A Derby College polo shirt and/or sweatshirt (details on where to purchase these will be given at enrolment)
• Writing materials, including a lever arch file, dividers and a memory stick
• Approximately £50 for entrance fees to animal collections visited throughout the year as part of your studies
• For all practical sessions, long hair must be tied back, and no nail varnish, false nails, false eyelashes or jewellery may be worn for health and safety reasons.
• It is also desirable for students to have access to a laptop or suitable IT device, as most assignment and coursework materials are accessed via Microsoft Teams.

As a fast paced programme with larger group sizes, students are expected to manage a varied workload assessed throughout the year through exams, practical assessments and assignments completed under exam conditions—developing resilience, academic discipline and professional competence. 

 Assessments in year 1: 

Synoptic exam (March) 

Synoptic assignment (March-April) 

Biology exam (March) 

Standalone unit assignments (throughout the year) 

Assessments in year 1: 

Synoptic exam (March) 

Synoptic assignment (March-April) 

Standalone unit assignments (throughout the year) 

This course can lead to a wide range of career pathways within the animal industry, including roles such as veterinary nurse, zookeeper, and supervisory positions in rescue centres, pet stores, kennels, catteries and dog grooming salons.  

Progression to higher education from this programme is strong. Many students continue their studies at Broomfield Hall, where a range of higher level Animal Care courses are available, while others progress to universities nationwide to study subjects such as veterinary nursing, animal biology, zoology, wildlife and conservation, zoo management and marine biology.  

All learners will have access to specialist careers advice, as well as support with university applications, personal statements and next step planning as part of the course. 

In addition, Derby College offers a broad selection of oneday, weekend and evening courses in Animal Care, dog grooming and other landbased topics. Further details can be found in the Derby College Parttime Prospectus. 

For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk