Animal Management and Science – T Level

Required qualifications

Typical entry requirements are 5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English, maths and science, or equivalent qualifications. As part of the application process, you may also be invited to interview or attend an applicant event.

This course is best suited to students who are motivated, organised and ready to combine scientific study with practical animal-related learning and professional expectations in placement settings.

What skills will I develop?

You will build a strong foundation in both the science and practice of animal care. Your studies will cover key themes such as health and safety, ethics, equality, business, communication, biosecurity and sustainability, as well as specialist content linked to animal anatomy and physiology, nutrition, behaviour, welfare and scientific research.

• Research, investigation and analytical skills
• Safe animal handling and welfare awareness
• Observation and interpretation of animal behaviour
• Planning, recording and communicating scientific findings
• Problem solving, teamwork and professional communication

Careers

This T Level is equivalent to three A Levels and can open up a range of progression routes. After completing the course, you could move on to higher education, a higher or advanced apprenticeship, or employment within the animal care and science sector.

Possible progression areas include animal management, veterinary-related study, zoology, animal nutrition, conservation and other science-based degrees or training pathways.

Career options may include animal care technician, kennel or cattery supervisor, animal rescue centre staff, trainee zookeeper, veterinary nurse, animal nutritionist or other roles linked to animal health, welfare and science.

Work experience

Work experience is a key part of the T Level programme. You will complete a substantial industry placement, giving you valuable experience of professional expectations, workplace routines and the practical application of your learning.

This placement helps you build confidence, strengthen your CV and develop the behaviours, communication skills and problem-solving abilities that employers are looking for in the animal care and science industries.

English and maths

English and maths are essential to success on this course and in the workplace. You will use them throughout your studies when interpreting information, writing assignments, recording practical outcomes, communicating professionally and working with data.

Our problem-based approach also supports the development of independent thinking, accuracy and confidence in both written and numerical work.

Other important information

The course is typically studied over two years, full-time. Alongside classroom learning, you will take part in practical activities and employer-informed projects designed to reflect real industry expectations.

You may also complete an employer-set project, giving you the opportunity to respond to a realistic brief and demonstrate the knowledge and skills developed across the course.

This programme is ideal for students who enjoy both scientific thinking and practical learning, and who want to understand how animal care knowledge is applied in real settings.

Topics may include anatomy and physiology, nutrition, behaviour, welfare, handling, ethics, sustainability and scientific investigation.

Additional costs may apply for trips, visits or extra activities where relevant.

If you are under 19 on 31 August in the year you start, tuition and exam costs are usually free, subject to eligibility.