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Tutor Support Included

Learning remotely doesn’t mean you’re on your own! You’ll be able to message your tutor through our industry-leading learning platform.

Flexible Payment Options

Enrol today from £9.99 deposit & spread the cost over 24 months

Learn At Your Own Pace

Study wherever and whenever you want. You’ll have access to your course for one year so you can fit your learning around your other commitments.

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Level 3 Diploma in Zookeeping (RQF)

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Practical Placement Locations - Dartmoor Zoo - Colchester Zoo - Blackpool Zoo - Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park Practical Placement Locations - Dartmoor Zoo - Colchester Zoo - Blackpool Zoo - Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park
  • SALE Savings End Midnight Friday 9th June
  • SALE Savings End Midnight Friday 9th June

Level 3 Diploma in Zookeeping (RQF)

This Course at a Glance

  • Work directly with animals during practical training
  • Learn about conservation, zoo design and disease prevention
  • Confidently enhance your skillset
  • Complete the course within a year
  • Employer recognised RQF qualification
  • Dedicated tutor guides your learning
  • Provides 24 UCAS Tariff Points

About Your Diploma

The Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (RQF) is a comprehensive course that allows you to delve into the world of zookeeping, giving you an opportunity to work closely with animals and wildlife.

Achieving this qualification will turn your passion for animal welfare into a rewarding career. Expanding your understanding of zookeeping and how to care for large animals with complex needs in a zoo or safari setting.

The course, which is open to learners aged 16 or older, consists of theory-based online learning and practical training. This will involve direct contact with many species, including penguins, sea lions, giraffes, aardvarks, and more. You will gain first-hand experience of working in a zoo, as well as develop essential skills and put into practice what you have learned.

The theory element of the course is studied online from home, at your own pace and with full tutor support. The practical training involves spending 1 week any of the following participating zoos:

  • Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Park
  • Colchester Zoo
  • Dartmoor Zoo
  • Blackpool Zoo

During this time, you will delve into the behaviours of different species. You will also learn about conservation and sustainability, as well as specialist care for reptiles.

By studying this course, you will be eligible to apply for ZSL Fellowship, which if successful, gives you unlimited access to ZSL London and ZSL Whipsnade Zoos. The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) works on conservation and sustainability efforts for wildlife habitats around the world.

UCAS Status

Learners looking to go to university or continue their training at a Higher Education (HE) provider after completing one of our Level 3 animal courses will benefit from UCAS Points.

All our Level 3 animal qualifications are allocated a certain number of UCAS Tariff Points, ranging from 8 to 48 points. These are used to meet entry requirements for higher education establishments. So, if you are keen to pursue the next stage of your career, this Level 3 course will help you achieve it.

UCAS logo

Getting Started

learndirect is the UK’s leading online course provider, helping more than 4 million students across the country. Our online courses give you the flexibility to engage with your studies on your terms. 

No matter what your commitments are, online learning works around you, so you’re able to progress with your studies at a pace appropriate to your circumstances. The only date you’ll need to keep in mind is when you book the practical element of the course.

You’ll gain essential knowledge on the fundamentals of zookeeping and work towards a fulfilling new career. With no classes to attend or timetable to stick to, you’re in control of the pace and place of your learning, and you can start straight away!

What’s more, we have dedicated and experienced online tutors to support you throughout your course, as well as all the material being readily available as soon as you enrol.

+ Free Upgrade Self-Paced Online Learning With Tutor Support Self-Paced Online Learning With Tutor Support PLUS On-Demand & Live Classes
Access your course materials immediately
Tutor support via our market-leading platform
Study around existing commitments
Progress as quickly as you’d like
Tailored individual learning plan to help you succeed
Engaging content; from videos to interactive quizzes
Industry-leading 5 days marking turnaround
Live class scheduled between 10 am to 8 pm daily (including weekends)  
Access to our video library of previous lectures available on-demand  
Interact with your tutors directly during your class  
Network with like-minded students via our chat functionality  
Take live classes multiple times or access recordings as you like  
OUR PASS RATE
Animal Care & Veterinary Science (National Average 74.9%)
86.8%

Modules

Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (RQF) Modules

The course consists of 10 compulsory units.

Unit 1: Development of Zoos

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Know how the keeping of animals in captivity has developed historically
  • Understand the roles and perceptions of the modern zoo
  • Understand how zookeepers can assist with the roles of the modern zoo

Unit 2: Animal Welfare and Ethics

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand the main needs of animals in captivity and how they are met
  • Understand animal welfare and the assessment of animal welfare in zoos
  • Know how to manage the breeding of animals in captivity
  • Understand the ethical implications of keeping animals in a zoo

Unit 3: Conservation in Zoos

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand the different conservation options available to zoos
  • Understand why zoological collections are more suitable to different forms of conservation
  • Know how various breeding programmes work

Unit 4: Zoo Design

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand the main considerations for and advances in, general zoo design
  • Know how to improve existing enclosures
  • Understand the risk assessment and health and safety, requirements for enclosure design

Unit 5: Disease and Prevention

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand how to identify and report abnormal behaviours and signs of illness promptly
  • Understand zoonotic and animal diseases and how to prevent their spread
  • Know about the storage and maintenance of animal feeds
  • Confident in sourcing information about animal diets and nutrition

Unit 6: Management of Animals in a Zoo

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand the basic information required for the management of animals in a zoo
  • Know how to use observational skills as a zookeeper
  • Understand the importance of record-keeping in the management of animals in a zoo

Unit 7: Enrichment and Training

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Know why environmental enrichment is needed
  • Understand how enrichment is being used effectively
  • Explore how training improves the welfare of animals in captivity
  • Understand the behaviour and body language of zoo animals
  • Recognise the signs of stress in zoo animals, its management, and the benefits of enrichment

Unit 8: Zoos and the Media

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand the value of the media to zoos
  • Understand the role of the zookeeper concerning the media
  • Know the forms of exposure to the media in a zoological collection
  • Be able to develop and explain the functions of a short presentation
  • Understand how all departments of a zoological collection must work together
  • Be able to design and explain the purpose of suitable signage for a zoological collection

Unit 9: Legislation and Zoological Collections

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Be aware of the legislation that is relevant to zoological collections in the UK and Europe
  • Understand zoo relevant associations in the UK and Europe
  • Explore legislation in animal transportation between zoos
  • Understand controls on zookeeper and visitor interactions with animals

Unit 10: 1 week of Practical Training at Participating Zoo

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Know what is involved in the design of enclosures
  • Understand the diet requirements of primates
  • Have a strong knowledge of conservation and sustainability
  • Understand animal training and behaviours
  • Know about zoo administration and the specialist care of reptiles and invertebrates

Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification but learners must be aged 16 or over.

Minimum Age restriction

16

Average completion timeframe

You have 24 months to complete your course.

Placement or Practical required

This course does not include a mandatory placement. However, learners have the opportunity to complete an optional placement that is offered at Blackpool Zoo, Colchester Zoo, Dartmoor Zoo, and Jimmy's Farm. Please note, minimum group sizes apply.

If placement or practical required, when?

Learners can choose the practical location and dates that suit them best once the threshold has been met.

Certification Timeframe

Learners can expect their certification within 6 months of completing the course, following the (EQA) External Quality Assurance of assessment.

Course Fees

All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered.

*You will have access to the course for 24 months.

When studying your Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (RQF), you will undergo a variety of assessments overseen by our qualified experts. After completing each unit, you need to provide a portfolio of evidence.

As you’re in control of the pace in which you learn, you’re also in charge of when you hand in your assignments. This enables you to take as long as you need to thoroughly understand the unit before completing any assignments.

Practical Training

The practical elements of your course give you the opportunity to apply your knowledge in real-life scenarios with a 1-week practical polacement at a zoo.

The Practical Training programme includes both theoretical and hands-on learning. You will be able to experience the day-to-day aspects of working in a zoo.

The week will include:

  • Studying Primate nutrition and behaviour
  • Conservation and Sustainability
  • Specialist care of reptiles and invertebrates
  • Zoo administration: Including ZIMs, EEPs, Studbook management, Zoo licensing
  • Allocated time to research personal projects and areas of interest
  • Direct contact with a range of animals such as giraffes, penguins, prosimians, aardvarks, tapirs and sea lions

Also, if you undergo your practical training, you may have the opportunity to apply for a job role at the zoo should you be successful. The career possibilities are far and wide.

Placement dates for 2023

Colchester: March 20th-24th

Blackpool: May 15th-19th & Sept: 18th-22nd

Dartmoor: June 12th-16th

AIM Qualifications Assessment Group

AIM Qualifications Assessment Group logo

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be awarded the Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (Qualification Number: 603/4158/0).

AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group is a leading Awarding (AO) and End-Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) offering award-winning qualifications and nominated end-point assessment services.

AIM has over thirty years of experience in developing high-quality qualifications that meet the needs of employers and learners. They approve the colleges, training providers, and other education centres that deliver their qualifications and work closely with them to ensure high-quality delivery.

AIM is also regulated by the public regulator governing qualifications in England – Ofqual.

Career

After obtaining a Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (RQF), you will have the opportunity to embark on a fulfilling career. The conservation and care of wildlife species is a cause that many people are passionate about, and by achieving this accredited qualification, you will be able to make a real-life difference.

Given the wealth of specialist information taught during the course, as well as the essential practical elements, you will possess the knowledge and skills required to work in several roles. Having a Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (RQF) could potentially lead you towards a career in one of the following roles:

  • Zookeeper
  • Wildlife Ranger
  • Zoo Vet Assistants
  • Zoologist
  • Wildlife Park Keeper
  • Curator and More!

ZSL Fellowship

By studying for a Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (RQF), you not only enhance your career prospects, but you also become eligible for ZSL Fellowship. The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) is an international conservation charity that is dedicated to ensuring that wildlife habitats continue to thrive.

Through science, field conservation and the work of ZSL London and ZSL Whipsnade Zoos, habitats are getting the help they need, continuously tackling the challenges that come their way. By undertaking the Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (RQF), you can apply for a Fellowship. If successful, you will get unlimited access to both zoos and borrowing rights to zoological texts.

Also, if you undergo your practical training at ZSL London, you may have an opportunity to apply for a job role at the zoo should you be successful. The career possibilities are far and wide.

zsl logo

  • SALE Savings End Midnight Friday 9th June
  • SALE Savings End Midnight Friday 9th June

Level 3 Diploma in Zookeeping (RQF)

This Course at a Glance

  • Work directly with animals during practical training
  • Learn about conservation, zoo design and disease prevention
  • Confidently enhance your skillset
  • Complete the course within a year
  • Employer recognised RQF qualification
  • Dedicated tutor guides your learning
  • Provides 24 UCAS Tariff Points

About Your Diploma

The Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (RQF) is a comprehensive course that allows you to delve into the world of zookeeping, giving you an opportunity to work closely with animals and wildlife.

Achieving this qualification will turn your passion for animal welfare into a rewarding career. Expanding your understanding of zookeeping and how to care for large animals with complex needs in a zoo or safari setting.

The course, which is open to learners aged 16 or older, consists of theory-based online learning and practical training. This will involve direct contact with many species, including penguins, sea lions, giraffes, aardvarks, and more. You will gain first-hand experience of working in a zoo, as well as develop essential skills and put into practice what you have learned.

The theory element of the course is studied online from home, at your own pace and with full tutor support. The practical training involves spending 1 week any of the following participating zoos:

  • Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Park
  • Colchester Zoo
  • Dartmoor Zoo
  • Blackpool Zoo

During this time, you will delve into the behaviours of different species. You will also learn about conservation and sustainability, as well as specialist care for reptiles.

By studying this course, you will be eligible to apply for ZSL Fellowship, which if successful, gives you unlimited access to ZSL London and ZSL Whipsnade Zoos. The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) works on conservation and sustainability efforts for wildlife habitats around the world.

UCAS Status

Learners looking to go to university or continue their training at a Higher Education (HE) provider after completing one of our Level 3 animal courses will benefit from UCAS Points.

All our Level 3 animal qualifications are allocated a certain number of UCAS Tariff Points, ranging from 8 to 48 points. These are used to meet entry requirements for higher education establishments. So, if you are keen to pursue the next stage of your career, this Level 3 course will help you achieve it.

UCAS logo

Getting Started

learndirect is the UK’s leading online course provider, helping more than 4 million students across the country. Our online courses give you the flexibility to engage with your studies on your terms. 

No matter what your commitments are, online learning works around you, so you’re able to progress with your studies at a pace appropriate to your circumstances. The only date you’ll need to keep in mind is when you book the practical element of the course.

You’ll gain essential knowledge on the fundamentals of zookeeping and work towards a fulfilling new career. With no classes to attend or timetable to stick to, you’re in control of the pace and place of your learning, and you can start straight away!

What’s more, we have dedicated and experienced online tutors to support you throughout your course, as well as all the material being readily available as soon as you enrol.

+ Free Upgrade Self-Paced Online Learning With Tutor Support Self-Paced Online Learning With Tutor Support PLUS On-Demand & Live Classes
Access your course materials immediately
Tutor support via our market-leading platform
Study around existing commitments
Progress as quickly as you’d like
Tailored individual learning plan to help you succeed
Engaging content; from videos to interactive quizzes
Industry-leading 5 days marking turnaround
Live class scheduled between 10 am to 8 pm daily (including weekends)  
Access to our video library of previous lectures available on-demand  
Interact with your tutors directly during your class  
Network with like-minded students via our chat functionality  
Take live classes multiple times or access recordings as you like  

Modules

Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (RQF) Modules

The course consists of 10 compulsory units.

Unit 1: Development of Zoos

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Know how the keeping of animals in captivity has developed historically
  • Understand the roles and perceptions of the modern zoo
  • Understand how zookeepers can assist with the roles of the modern zoo

Unit 2: Animal Welfare and Ethics

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand the main needs of animals in captivity and how they are met
  • Understand animal welfare and the assessment of animal welfare in zoos
  • Know how to manage the breeding of animals in captivity
  • Understand the ethical implications of keeping animals in a zoo

Unit 3: Conservation in Zoos

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand the different conservation options available to zoos
  • Understand why zoological collections are more suitable to different forms of conservation
  • Know how various breeding programmes work

Unit 4: Zoo Design

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand the main considerations for and advances in, general zoo design
  • Know how to improve existing enclosures
  • Understand the risk assessment and health and safety, requirements for enclosure design

Unit 5: Disease and Prevention

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand how to identify and report abnormal behaviours and signs of illness promptly
  • Understand zoonotic and animal diseases and how to prevent their spread
  • Know about the storage and maintenance of animal feeds
  • Confident in sourcing information about animal diets and nutrition

Unit 6: Management of Animals in a Zoo

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand the basic information required for the management of animals in a zoo
  • Know how to use observational skills as a zookeeper
  • Understand the importance of record-keeping in the management of animals in a zoo

Unit 7: Enrichment and Training

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Know why environmental enrichment is needed
  • Understand how enrichment is being used effectively
  • Explore how training improves the welfare of animals in captivity
  • Understand the behaviour and body language of zoo animals
  • Recognise the signs of stress in zoo animals, its management, and the benefits of enrichment

Unit 8: Zoos and the Media

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand the value of the media to zoos
  • Understand the role of the zookeeper concerning the media
  • Know the forms of exposure to the media in a zoological collection
  • Be able to develop and explain the functions of a short presentation
  • Understand how all departments of a zoological collection must work together
  • Be able to design and explain the purpose of suitable signage for a zoological collection

Unit 9: Legislation and Zoological Collections

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Be aware of the legislation that is relevant to zoological collections in the UK and Europe
  • Understand zoo relevant associations in the UK and Europe
  • Explore legislation in animal transportation between zoos
  • Understand controls on zookeeper and visitor interactions with animals

Unit 10: 1 week of Practical Training at Participating Zoo

On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Know what is involved in the design of enclosures
  • Understand the diet requirements of primates
  • Have a strong knowledge of conservation and sustainability
  • Understand animal training and behaviours
  • Know about zoo administration and the specialist care of reptiles and invertebrates

Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification but learners must be aged 16 or over.

Minimum Age restriction

16

Average completion timeframe

You have 24 months to complete your course.

Placement or Practical required

This course does not include a mandatory placement. However, learners have the opportunity to complete an optional placement that is offered at Blackpool Zoo, Colchester Zoo, Dartmoor Zoo, and Jimmy's Farm. Please note, minimum group sizes apply.

If placement or practical required, when?

Learners can choose the practical location and dates that suit them best once the threshold has been met.

Certification Timeframe

Learners can expect their certification within 6 months of completing the course, following the (EQA) External Quality Assurance of assessment.

Course Fees

All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered.

*You will have access to the course for 24 months.

Excellent Marking

Assessment

When studying your Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (RQF), you will undergo a variety of assessments overseen by our qualified experts. After completing each unit, you need to provide a portfolio of evidence.

As you’re in control of the pace in which you learn, you’re also in charge of when you hand in your assignments. This enables you to take as long as you need to thoroughly understand the unit before completing any assignments.

Practical Training

The practical elements of your course give you the opportunity to apply your knowledge in real-life scenarios with a 1-week practical polacement at a zoo.

The Practical Training programme includes both theoretical and hands-on learning. You will be able to experience the day-to-day aspects of working in a zoo.

The week will include:

  • Studying Primate nutrition and behaviour
  • Conservation and Sustainability
  • Specialist care of reptiles and invertebrates
  • Zoo administration: Including ZIMs, EEPs, Studbook management, Zoo licensing
  • Allocated time to research personal projects and areas of interest
  • Direct contact with a range of animals such as giraffes, penguins, prosimians, aardvarks, tapirs and sea lions

Also, if you undergo your practical training, you may have the opportunity to apply for a job role at the zoo should you be successful. The career possibilities are far and wide.

Placement dates for 2023

Colchester: March 20th-24th

Blackpool: May 15th-19th & Sept: 18th-22nd

Dartmoor: June 12th-16th

Qualifications

AIM Qualifications Assessment Group

AIM Qualifications Assessment Group logo

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be awarded the Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (Qualification Number: 603/4158/0).

AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group is a leading Awarding (AO) and End-Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) offering award-winning qualifications and nominated end-point assessment services.

AIM has over thirty years of experience in developing high-quality qualifications that meet the needs of employers and learners. They approve the colleges, training providers, and other education centres that deliver their qualifications and work closely with them to ensure high-quality delivery.

AIM is also regulated by the public regulator governing qualifications in England – Ofqual.

FREE Digital Certificate

Career

After obtaining a Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (RQF), you will have the opportunity to embark on a fulfilling career. The conservation and care of wildlife species is a cause that many people are passionate about, and by achieving this accredited qualification, you will be able to make a real-life difference.

Given the wealth of specialist information taught during the course, as well as the essential practical elements, you will possess the knowledge and skills required to work in several roles. Having a Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (RQF) could potentially lead you towards a career in one of the following roles:

  • Zookeeper
  • Wildlife Ranger
  • Zoo Vet Assistants
  • Zoologist
  • Wildlife Park Keeper
  • Curator and More!

ZSL Fellowship

By studying for a Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (RQF), you not only enhance your career prospects, but you also become eligible for ZSL Fellowship. The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) is an international conservation charity that is dedicated to ensuring that wildlife habitats continue to thrive.

Through science, field conservation and the work of ZSL London and ZSL Whipsnade Zoos, habitats are getting the help they need, continuously tackling the challenges that come their way. By undertaking the Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (RQF), you can apply for a Fellowship. If successful, you will get unlimited access to both zoos and borrowing rights to zoological texts.

Also, if you undergo your practical training at ZSL London, you may have an opportunity to apply for a job role at the zoo should you be successful. The career possibilities are far and wide.

zsl logo

OUR PASS RATE
Animal Care & Veterinary Science
86.8%
(National Average 74.9%)
Online &
Practical Learning
10 units
297 guided
learning hours

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