ICTQual Level 3 Award in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping

The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping is a vocational qualification designed for learners who wish to advance their knowledge and skills in animal care, welfare, and zoo operations. Building on the foundations of Levels 1 and 2, this program introduces more detailed study of animal behaviour, enrichment techniques, and the role of zoos in conservation and education. It is ideal for individuals seeking to strengthen their practical expertise and prepare for more responsible roles in animal care facilities.

Learners will explore how to monitor animal health, design enrichment activities, and engage with visitors to promote awareness of conservation issues. The course emphasizes ethical standards, welfare responsibilities, and the importance of maintaining safe, stimulating environments for captive wildlife. By combining theory with practical application, the qualification equips participants with the confidence to support daily zoo operations and contribute to conservation initiatives.

Completion of this award provides a pathway into higher vocational qualifications, including Level 3 Certificate and Diploma programs. It also opens opportunities for volunteering, entry‑level employment, and further training in wildlife parks, zoos, and conservation projects, making it a valuable step toward a career in animal keeping and zoo management.

Course overview

Level 3 Award in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping

To enrol in ICTQual Level 3 Award in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping, learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 16 years old at the time of enrollment.
  • Educational Background: Completion of the ICTQual Level 2 Award in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping or an equivalent qualification is recommended. Learners should demonstrate a basic understanding of animal husbandry and welfare.
  • Professional Experience:No formal work experience is required. However, prior exposure through volunteering, pet care, or assisting in animal facilities will be beneficial.
  • English Proficiency:Learners must be able to read, write, and communicate effectively in English (or the language of instruction) to engage with course materials and complete assessments.

This qualification, the ICTQual Level 3 Award in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping, consists of 3 mandatory units.

  1. Animal Behaviour and Enrichment Techniques
  2. Monitoring Animal Health and Daily Care
  3. Visitor Engagement and Education in Zoos

Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual Level 3 Award in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping:

Animal Behaviour and Enrichment Techniques

  • Demonstrate understanding of animal behaviour patterns in captive environments.
  • Identify enrichment activities that promote natural behaviours and reduce stress.
  • Apply enrichment techniques to improve welfare and stimulate mental activity.
  • Recognize the importance of behavioural observation in daily animal care.

Monitoring Animal Health and Daily Care

  • Demonstrate skills in observing and recording animal health indicators.
  • Identify signs of illness, injury, or stress in zoo animals.
  • Apply daily care routines including feeding, cleaning, and enclosure checks.
  • Recognize the importance of preventive health measures and veterinary support.

Visitor Engagement and Education in Zoos

  • Demonstrate knowledge of the role of zoos in public education and conservation awareness.
  • Identify effective methods for engaging visitors in animal welfare and conservation topics.
  • Apply communication skills to support guided tours, talks, or educational activities.
  • Recognize the importance of visitor interaction in promoting ethical zoo practices.

The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping provides learners with intermediate skills in animal behaviour, welfare, and visitor engagement. This qualification strengthens practical knowledge and prepares participants for more advanced vocational study, volunteering opportunities, and structured career pathways in zoos, wildlife parks, and conservation projects. Learners can build on their achievements by progressing into higher qualifications and taking on more responsible roles in animal care and management.

  • Progression to ICTQual Level 3 Certificate in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping for broader study.
  • Pathways into the ICTQual Level 3 Diploma to gain deeper knowledge of animal welfare and conservation.
  • Opportunities to volunteer in zoos, sanctuaries, or wildlife parks to apply skills in real settings.
  • Development of practical expertise in animal behaviour monitoring and enrichment planning.
  • Entry into support roles assisting zoo staff with daily care and visitor education activities.
  • Pathways into higher vocational diplomas focusing on advanced zoo operations and captive breeding.
  • Opportunities to contribute to conservation awareness programs and community education initiatives.
  • Building confidence to manage animal health records and welfare standards under supervision.
  • Preparation for roles in animal husbandry, enclosure maintenance, and visitor engagement.
  • Pathways into structured training in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation project support.
  • Opportunities to assist in research and data collection on animal behaviour and welfare.
  • Development of transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and responsibility in animal care.

FAQs

This course is ideal for learners interested in advancing their zoo management knowledge and animal care skills. It suits those aiming for entry‑level roles or progression into higher vocational qualifications in wildlife and conservation.

Learners gain practical expertise in animal behaviour observation, enrichment planning, and daily health monitoring. They also develop communication skills for visitor engagement and conservation education in zoo environments.

The Level 3 Award in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping is a 3 days programme designed to be completed in full-time study over this period, with a focus on both theoretical learning and practical application.

ICTQual Level 3 Award in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping is offered in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual Level 3 Award in Zoo Management and Animal Keeping, includes assessments consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). These assessments evaluate participants’ understanding of the course material and their ability to apply concepts in practical situations. A minimum score of 75% is required to pass the assessments.cal situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%