Diploma in Land-based Studies

If you’re leaving school, this course is a fantastic introduction to animal care that you’ll really enjoy.

You will work with a range of species, including mammals, exotics, reptiles, fish, birds and amphibians, all housed within our excellent Animal Management Unit here at Plumpton College. You will learn the essential skills required to work within the animal care industry, such as feeding and watering animals, maintaining their accommodation, handling animals and carrying out animal health checks. You will also have the opportunity to develop your maths and English skills, as well as your personal development skills, such as timekeeping, teamwork and independent study, or anything else you feel you would like to develop.

Build your confidence caring for animals

This introductory, practical course is designed for learners who want to develop the essential knowledge and skills needed to care for animals safely and responsibly.

You’ll explore a range of animal species while building confidence through hands-on activities and accessible classroom learning. The course will help you understand animal care routines, develop practical skills and prepare for further study or entry-level employment in the animal care industry.

Topics may include:

• Animal health and wellbeing
• Feeding and watering animals
• Safe animal handling
• Cleaning and maintaining animal accommodation
• Recognising normal animal behaviour
• Working safely around animals
• Carrying out everyday animal care routines
• Developing practical employability skills
• You’ll learn how to work responsibly around animals and understand the importance of maintaining high standards of care, hygiene, health and safety.
• Learn through practical experience
• The course has a strong hands-on focus, giving you regular opportunities to practise your skills with support from experienced tutors. Practical activities are complemented by classroom sessions, helping you connect what you learn with real animal care situations.

You’ll be assessed through a combination of practical activities, coursework and online examinations. Assessment takes place throughout the course, with a strong focus on learning by doing and building your practical skills and confidence.

Assessment includes:

• Two online examinations, completed under formal examination conditions
• Practical observations, where you’ll demonstrate animal care, handling and husbandry skills
• Written and portfolio-based tasks, providing evidence of your knowledge and understanding
• Practical projects and activities linked to animal care and the land-based sector
• Personal, employability and progression skills, developed and assessed alongside your vocational learning

You’ll receive support with preparation and revision for the online examinations, while regular practical assessment will help you monitor your progress and develop the skills needed for further study or employment.

3 GCSEs at Grade 2 and above to include English and Maths OR an Entry level qualification in a related subject plus English and Maths, at least grade 2 or functional skills entry level 3

This course provides a solid foundation for progression to higher-level animal care courses or entry-level opportunities within the animal industry. It’s an ideal starting point if you’re interested in working with animals and want to develop the confidence and skills needed for your next step.