Where will this course lead?

If you have thought of earning a qualification working with animals or if you want to work in the animal care sector, a Level 1 Land-based diploma could help you to develop and practice the skills required for employment or go onto higher courses. Whilst at Solihull College you will be taught in purpose built classrooms and work with our wide collection of animals in their fantastic enclosures.

What will I study?

Throughout your studies, you will cover the following Units:

Unit 201: Safe and effective working practices.

Unit 202: Preparing to work in land based industries.

Unit 224: Animals in the wild and their main features

Unit 225: Uses and domestication of animals

Unit 227: Assist with the preparation and maintenance of animal accommodation

Unit 228: Assist with the handling and restraint of animals

Unit 229: Assist with exercise of animals

How will this course be delivered?

You will spend three/four days per week in College and one day a week studying at home

What qualifications will I get?

City and Guilds Level 1 Diploma in Land Based Studies (0361)

How will I be assessed?

The units will be assessed by the gathering of a range of work-based evidence into a portfolio. Your work will be judged by the Assessor. (This evidence can include a range of work documents, written questioning, oral questioning, photographic evidence, video, reports, professional discussion and observations).

How do I get a place on the course?

You will be required to attend an interview at which you will need to show sufficient interest and ability to complete the qualification.

What are the entry requirements?

Minimum qualifications for this course are: - Two GCSE passes at Grade E/2 or above in English or Science and Maths - A good level of written English and an understanding of Maths and Science - A suitable reference from an educational establishment - A recent school report is also recommended - A physical requirement to move and handle bedding/animal feeds/ large animals - A successful interview.

What else do I need to know?

You will need to provide a pair of steel toe cap boots and purchase a College boiler suit, the prices of which will be available upon completing the application. There may also be various trips throughout the year. Good levels of English and Maths are important for your success in your course, your chosen vocation and life. Throughout your course you will continue to develop your English and Maths skills in your vocational classes.

If you haven't achieved an A*9 - C /4 grade in English or Maths at GCSE, or a Level 2 Functional Skill, you will also be working towards a qualification in English or Maths at a level that will enable you to progress towards these grades. Solihull College and University Centre offers full time and part time courses for businesses and residents in Birmingham, Walsall, Wolverhampton, Coventry, Warwickshire and the whole of the West Midlands.

What can I do after this course?

You can progress on to a level 2 course.

Location

Blossomfield Campus

Start Date

Sept-2025

Day

Various

Time

TBC

Course Fee

N/A For 16 to 18 Year Olds

Course Code

AGHAA031BCF0

Study Mode

Full Time

Zoo Keeper

Zoo Keepers work directly with animals on a daily basis, looking after their feeding, cleaning and health needs.

What’s Involved?

Zoo Keepers feed, wash, groom, trim and exercise animals. They clean animals' quarters and renew bedding as necessary. They also house, feed, exercise, train, groom horses, dogs and other animals in preparation for entry to shows, races and other events. They check animals for illness, treats minor ailments or call for vets if further treatment is required. They meet prospective owners and advise on animal selection and animal care. They patrol public areas to search for and capture stray or nuisance dogs, and transport captured animals to kennels.

Predicted Employment

How much can I earn?

£17,680
NATIONAL AVERAGE

Employment by Region

The career paths provided are to give you an idea of the careers that you could progress onto in the future. However, for some, you may need to complete higher level qualifications and gain experience before your dream job becomes a reality. The information provided is to support further research and to generate some initial career ideas when choosing a course. Please check entry requirements to degree courses, apprenticeships, and jobs as this may vary from year to year and across providers. For further advice and guidance, please contact: careers@solihull.ac.uk.