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Step Into Animal Studies

  • E

    Level
    Entry Level

  • Duration
    1 year

  • Start Date
    September 2026

  • Venue
    Easton College campus

  • Course Code
    A0590

Start Date

  • September 2026, Full Time, Day

What You Will Study

If you enjoy being around animals and want to learn more about how to care for them, this course is a great way to get started. You’ll be part of a small group and learn in a friendly, supportive setting that helps you build confidence and prepare for your next steps.

You’ll learn how to:

  • Look after animals and understand their health and wellbeing
  • Feed and groom animals
  • Clean and care for animal accommodation
  • Move and handle animals safely

Your lessons will be a mix of classroom learning and practical sessions in our Animal Management Centre, where you’ll work with real animals in a safe and supervised environment.

As well as learning about animals, you’ll also work on important skills that help with independence and future employment, like communication, teamwork, and following instructions. You’ll study Functional Skills or GCSEs in English and Maths alongside your animal care lessons, depending on what’s right for you.

This course is taught in a mainstream college environment, so you’ll need to take part in an interview and assessment to make sure it’s the right fit. If you’re coming from a specialist or supported school, you might benefit from a transition year in our Inclusive Learning department first. This can help you settle in and feel confident before joining this course.

You’ll need to buy PPE (personal protective equipment) to work safely in the Animal Management Centre. We’ll give you all the details at enrolment. You’ll be working indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions, helping to care for our animals to the highest standards.

This course is a great way to learn new skills, meet new people, and take your first steps into college life and animal care.

Why Choose Easton College?

Gain hands-on experience

Work with a variety of animals in our Animal Management Centre.

Thriving life sciences industry

The East of England has a thriving life sciences industry with over 3,000 people working in over 200 companies in the industry .

Excellent career opportunities

Courses offer routes into a variety of exciting careers working for a wide range of organisations including international charities, zoological societies, conservation organisations and veterinary practices.

Entry Requirements

There are no formal GCSE entry requirements. You will need to complete an interview task and two taster days.

How You Will Be Assessed

You will complete a portfolio for each unit, which will include worksheets, written work and practical observations.

Course Progression

Successful completion of the Step Into Animal Studies course may lead to progression onto the Level 1 Land-based Diploma or a supported internship.

Fees

If you are a UK or home fee status student and aged 16 to 18 on 31st August before the start of your course, your tuition fees will be free. If you are aged 19 and over, please contact the Advice Shop for more information by email at information@ccn.ac.uk or by calling 01603 773773.

There may be some costs for PPE, trips, visits or additional qualifications.

Why Choose Easton College?

Gain hands-on experience

Work with a variety of animals in our Animal Management Centre.

Thriving life sciences industry

The East of England has a thriving life sciences industry with over 3,000 people working in over 200 companies in the industry .

Excellent career opportunities

Courses offer routes into a variety of exciting careers working for a wide range of organisations including international charities, zoological societies, conservation organisations and veterinary practices.