T Level in Animal Management and Behaviour – Level 3

This qualification, particularly suited to motivated school leavers who are passionate about animal health, welfare and behaviour, combines classroom study with significant industry work placements. Applicants typically hold GCSE grade 5 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. 

The T Level is aimed at students aspiring to roles such as zookeeper, veterinary nursing assistant, animal technician, pet sitter or dog groomer. It caters for industry-ready learners: those looking to gain hands-on experience in areas like animal rehabilitation, welfare and science. 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. 

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, should demonstrate a genuine interest in the animal management industry, and should 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 5 (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
• A short personal statement (no longer than 1000 words) stating the student’s motivations and describing their suitability to study on this course.

You must be aged between 16 – 19 years to study on this programme.

Students must be able to attend the course full time and complete a compulsory in-year work placement which must equate to a minimum of 315 hours or 45 days over the course of the two-year 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.  

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. 

On the Animal Management T Level, students will cover common core topics linked to industry including Health and Safety, Sustainability, Finance, Business, Ethics and Equality. They will also cover core pathway topics linked to the animal industry including Biosecurity, Animal Learning Theories, Anatomy, Physiology and Animal Health. The occupational specialism will include Animal Welfare, Animal Biology, Animal Training, Animal Welfare and Conservation. 

They will develop their knowledge, understanding and skills in:  

• Exploring how to maintain and improve the health and welfare of a wide range of animals
• Understanding how different environments affect animals and how to optimise conditions for their wellbeing
• Developing and applying practical techniques to positively influence and manage animal behaviour
• Researching and presenting information on animal species to support welfare, conservation and responsible care

  Completion of the Animal Management Core Pathway will also give learners the opportunity to develop their maths, English and digital skills.   

Learning will take place on site, through a blend of theory-based lessons and practical, hands-on sessions within the classroom and the animal collection at Broomfield Hall, 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 Group bottle green laboratory coat for practical sessions (available to purchase at enrolment)
• A Derby College Group 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.

On this fast-paced programme, students are expected to manage a varied workload assessed throughout the year through exams, practical assessments and assignments completed under exam conditions – developing their resilience, academic discipline and professional competence. 

Assessments include:  

• An externally set exam
• An employer-set project
• A practical assignment
• A research project

The course contains a range of assessment methods including exams, written assignments, projects and presentations. 

This course can lead to a wide range of career pathways or apprenticeships 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, Animal Behaviour 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. 

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