The entry qualifications for the Level 3 Animal Management Extended Diploma are five GCSEs at grade 4 or above (Old GCSE grade C or above) including Science, Maths and English.

You can also progress onto this course with a Merit profile in a Level 2 qualification.

If you are concerned about the above entry requirements an alternative course available is the Level 2 Animal Care qualification, which can be used to progress onto the Level 3 course the following year.

It is also expected that you will have a weeks worth of meaningful work experience such as voluntary work at your local vets.

The Animal Management Extended Diploma is free, if you are under the age of 19 on 31 August of the year you start the course.

For those aged 19+, this course will cost £11356:

If you are aged 19-23, fee remission may apply depending on personal circumstances, please enquire with the Registry Department for further information on 01205 365701.

Aged 19+?
If you are aged 19 years or over on the 1st day of your course, you may qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan to help with your College fees. If you progress to employment you won't have to pay anything back until you’re earning £25,000 per year. Your household income isn't taken into account and there's no credit check. Your eligibility depends on your course, nationality, and age. To find out more contact the College Information Line on 01205 313218.

Fees may vary depending on personal circumstances, please enquire for further information.

Please note that all fees are subject to change.

Successful completion of this course can progress onto an Animal Management HND course, or other animal related courses at university such as Animal Management, Zoology, Marine Biology, Animal Psychology.

You can also progress into employment in the animal industry such as RSPCA Collection Officer, Wildlife Assistant, Trainee Veterinary Nurse, Pet Store Associate, Laboratory Technician, Kennel/Cattery Assistant, Canine Technician and Animal Sitter/Walker.

There are a number of educational visits arranged which you are encouraged to attend at a minimal cost, usually around £20.

You will complete an Industry Placement alongside your main Level 3 course.

Industry placements give you the chance to put into practice what you have learned and you will spend a minimum of 150 hours with an aspirational aim of 315 hours working for an employer, in a role directly relevant to your course.

With an Industry Placement you will gain technical skills, be prepared for the world of work, and gain connections in order to secure a job after your course.

What will I gain?

• Build your confidence, self-reliance and independence in the workplace.
• Enhance the learning from your college course.
• Develop your experience and expand your CV.
• Give yourself a head start in knowing what type of job you may want to go into after finishing your course.
• May lead to further opportunities such as paid employment or an apprenticeship on completion of your course.
• Take a step forward professionally, knowing the behaviours expected in the workplace.

What will I do?

• You will take part in an average of 50 days placement in a role that is directly relevant to your course, in an external organisation.
• You will develop the practical and technical skills required for your profession/trade.
• You will develop employability skills such as communication, teamwork and time management.

An existing part time job may qualify as an Industry Placement if it meets the criteria set by the College.

For more information regarding Industry Placements please contact the Enterprise Zone: enterprise@boston.ac.uk or call 01205 365701 ext: 3226/3227