Entry 3 / Level 1 LEAP Hub Animal Care

Developing Skills for Animal Care, Work and Adult Life

Entry 3 / Level 1

Our LEAP Hub Animal Care programme offers an engaging and practical learning experience that helps students develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to work with animals while preparing for employment, further study and adult life. Students gain hands-on experience caring for a diverse range of animals, including invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, mammals and birds.

Students learn about animal health, welfare, behaviour and husbandry while developing safe animal handling techniques and an understanding of industry standards. The course combines practical animal care activities with classroom-based learning, providing students with both theoretical knowledge and vocational skills.

A key part of the programme involves maintaining high standards of animal welfare. Students actively participate in daily husbandry tasks, including preparing food and water, cleaning and maintaining enclosures, monitoring animal wellbeing and completing routine care activities. These experiences help students understand the responsibilities and expectations of working within the animal care sector. This plays a major part in the course structure and helps to prepare students for the world of work.

Students also take part in work-related learning opportunities across a range of settings, including farms, rescue centres, stables and pet stores. These experiences help develop communication, teamwork, problem-solving, responsibility and independence while building confidence in real working environments.

Students work towards LASER vocational Animal Care qualification at Entry Level 3 or Level 1. The programme supports personal growth, emotional wellbeing and employability while encouraging empathy, respect and responsibility towards animals and the wider environment. Progression opportunities may include further education, supported internships, employment, volunteering or additional vocational training within the animal care sector.