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We offer a unique, hands-on route to gaining a fully accredited and nationally recognised qualification, whilst working with all species of British wildlife.
We offer practical training in all aspects of animal husbandry. As a working wildlife hospital, and a practical training centre, our students spend 60-80% of their time hands-on: cleaning, feeding, mucking out and moving some of the thousand plus wild animals that we have in our hospital at any one time.
In their practical sessions, students handle the hedgehogs, birds of prey, rabbits and swans, to name but a few species. They are involved in all aspects of care from taking in deliveries of bags of feed, cleaning and hosing down pens, cages and aviaries to working in the wards and outside enclosures, or assisting with health checking. The year round course means students get to experience everything the varying seasons brings, whilst playing their part in the care of all the sick, injured and orphaned species that come through our doors every day. Students play a key part in the care and rehabilitation of our patients and help them on their road back into the wild.
Level 3 qualifications
Click the link below to find out more about the Level 3 – Animal Management course and the Level 3 – Practical Skills course.
Focusing upon the major principles and practices of animal care and welfare, you will be able to start or build on a career in the Animal Care Industry. Level 2 is ideal if you are new to animal care or have some knowledge and basic skills. You want to develop your skills, perhaps to start work in a pet shop, animal shelter or kennel or prepare for further training. Build on your animal experience, working hands-on with wildlife in a busy Hospital. This nationally recognised, accredited qualification builds on your knowledge of animal care. Students will be expected to complete assignments at home to improve their overall background knowledge.
English/Maths: 16-18 year old students will be required to take English and Maths classes at the Buckinghamshire College Group (Aylesbury, Amersham or Wycombe campus), if they do not have 9-4 / A*-C grade GCSEs. This is part of the Animal Care programme of study, and does not require any additional application for these classes.
Course Progression
As part of the Level 2 Animal Care qualification, you will be given support in moving into the industry.
On achieving your Level 2 Diploma, some students may wish to progress to the Level 3 Practical Animal Care Skills qualification to enhance their husbandry skills and animal handling confidence.
Students with grade 4+ in Maths & English, who are considering may alternatively wish to progress onto Level 3 Animal Management, subject to achieving an overall Merit grade with a Distinction in the Biology unit, plus having demonstrated commitment to learning.
Course Start
September
Course Length
11 Months – 3 days a week (plus any Maths/English classes needed)
Location
Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital, Haddenham (near Aylesbury)
Days & Entry Requirements
Two week days, plus one day at the weekend, every week. 16-18 year olds requiring English or Maths classes will additionally need to attend lessons at the Buckinghamshire College Group.
Note: Courses run from September to end of July – with two weeks off at Christmas and two weeks at Easter. We do NOT break for half-terms or bank holidays.
3 GCSEs at grade 3 / D-E or above, including English, Maths and Science/Biology.
Mandatory and optional units
Students must complete all mandatory units:
Unit 201: Maintain Animal Health and Welfare
Unit 202: Undertake Practical Animal Feeding
Unit 203: Maintain Animal Accommodation
Unit 204: Undertake Work Related Experience in the Land-based Industries
Unit 206: Introduction to the Principles and Practices of Animal Behaviour and Handling
Additionally, students must also complete two of the following units:
Unit 205: Understand the Basic Principles of Animal Biology
Unit 207: Contribute to the Nursing of Animals
Unit 208: Understand the Principles and Practices of Animal Establishments
Unit 216: Understand British Wildlife Species, Habitats and Rehabilitation
Unit 219: Participate in Providing Estate Maintenance
Students will have extensive practical work experience throughout this year and will also cover CV writing, job applications, interview techniques, team working, dealing with the public and employability skills.
2025/26 – Fees & Funding Support
On enrolment, ALL students will need to purchase and wear uniform tops. This is not covered by course fees.
16-18 year-old students are exempt from tuition and registration fees.
19+ course fees – £1,175 for the course. Payment in instalments may be possible but needs to be agreed in advance.
19-24 year-olds may qualify for full or partial course fees funding, depending on eligibility criteria. Contact Bucks College Group.
What careers could this lead to?
Achieving this qualification can help you work in roles such as kennels, catteries, pet shops, zoo keeping, animal welfare, trainee veterinary nurse, veterinary assistant. It also offers access to further education, such as Level 3 course or A Levels.
