Level 3 Diploma in Zookeeping (RQF)
86.8%
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
- SALE Savings End Midnight Tuesday 22nd April
- SALE Savings End Midnight Tuesday 22nd April
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
About Your Diploma
The SEG Awards Level 3 Diploma in Zookeeping 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 with one 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.
Find out more about the placement in our videos below!
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.
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 a 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 Content |
|---|---|---|
| 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 7 days marking turnaround | ||
| Access to our video library of on-demand content |
Modules
Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (RQF) Modules
The course consists of 12 compulsory units.
Unit 1: Zoos in History
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Understand the development of zoos over time
-
Know the roles of the modern zoo
-
Understand modern zookeeping roles
Unit 2: Zoological Conservation
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Know different zoo conservation strategies
-
Understand the complexities of captive animal breeding programmes
Unit 3: Zoo Enclosure Design and Improvement
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Know the health and safety requirements for enclosure design
-
Understand zoo animal enclosure improvement
-
Know about general zoo design
Unit 4: Legislation in Zoos
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Know legislation related to zoos in the UK and Europe
-
Know organisations related to zoos in the UK and Europe
-
Understand legislation and organisations related to aspects of zookeeping
-
Understand legislative control of transporting zoo animals
Unit 5: Education in Zoos
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Know how to present information to others
-
Understand design of zoo signage
-
Know the importance of zoos to current and future generations
-
Understand collaborative working in zoos
Unit 6: The Role of the Media in Zoos
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Know the advantages of the media to zoos
-
Know the different forms of exposure of a zoo to the media
-
Understand how Zookeepers are involved with the media
Unit 7: Zoo Animal Nutrition
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Understand how to source information on zoo animal nutrition
-
Know how to store and maintain animal feeds
-
Know the link between animal nutrition and health
Unit 8: Zoos Animal Management
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Understand the information required by Zookeepers to manage animals in a zoo
-
Know the importance of accurate record keeping in zoos
-
Understand the skills required to observe animals in a zoo
-
Know the importance of teamwork in a zoo and as part of a wider multidisciplinary team
Unit 9: Zoo Animal Health
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Know zoo animal diseases
-
Understand the prevention of ill health in zoo animals
-
Understand zoo animal behaviour in relation to good and ill health
Unit 10: Zoo Animal Enrichment
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Know the reasons for provision of environmental enrichment
-
Understand the benefits of environmental enrichment
-
Know the use of animal training for enrichment
Unit 11: Stress in Zoo Animals
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Understand zoo animal behaviour
-
Know the signs of stress in zoo animals
-
Understand the management of stress in zoo animals
Unit 12: Animals in Captivity
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Know the needs of captive animals
-
Know the methods used to assess the welfare of animals in captivity
-
Understand the ethical considerations of keeping animals in captivity
-
Understand the breeding of animals in captivity
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
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 placement 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 animal 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.
*Please note that dates for the practical training will be provided upon enrolment.
SEG Awards
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be awarded the Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (Qualification Number: 610/3324/8).
Skills and Education Group Awards offer qualifications and assessments which are regulated by CCEA, Ofqual and Qualifications Wales. They are driven by delivering a high-quality and trusted service to Centres and learners, so that everyone gets the education they deserve.
After obtaining the SEG Awards Level 3 Diploma in Zookeeping, 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 the SEG Awards Level 3 Diploma in Zookeeping, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out how this course has helped real-life learners – people just like you - to reach their goals and achieve success!
Mark
Completed his practical zookeeper training at Blackpool Zoo.
"My week at Blackpool Zoo was above and beyond what I was expecting. I thought we’d be just cleaning out enclosures and feeding animals, rather than taking part in classroom discussions, creating enrichment projects, and all the other things we took part in. The education officers were very personable, and helpful in making the week an interesting, educational and engaging experience. I can honestly say that my week there was one of the most enjoyable experiences of my life, and above all, I now feel ready to take my next steps by applying for volunteer positions"
Ryan
Also underwent practical zookeeper training at Blackpool Zoo.
“My week at the zoo was very interesting and informational, and I learnt a lot regarding how the zoo operates and the requirements that must be met by the zoo staff in order to support the animals' wellbeing and survival.”
- SALE Savings End Midnight Tuesday 22nd April
- SALE Savings End Midnight Tuesday 22nd April
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
About Your Diploma
The SEG Awards Level 3 Diploma in Zookeeping 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 with one 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.
Find out more about the placement in our videos below!
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.
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 a 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 Content |
|---|---|---|
| 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 7 days marking turnaround | ||
| Access to our video library of on-demand content |
Modules
Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (RQF) Modules
The course consists of 12 compulsory units.
Unit 1: Zoos in History
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Understand the development of zoos over time
-
Know the roles of the modern zoo
-
Understand modern zookeeping roles
Unit 2: Zoological Conservation
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Know different zoo conservation strategies
-
Understand the complexities of captive animal breeding programmes
Unit 3: Zoo Enclosure Design and Improvement
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Know the health and safety requirements for enclosure design
-
Understand zoo animal enclosure improvement
-
Know about general zoo design
Unit 4: Legislation in Zoos
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Know legislation related to zoos in the UK and Europe
-
Know organisations related to zoos in the UK and Europe
-
Understand legislation and organisations related to aspects of zookeeping
-
Understand legislative control of transporting zoo animals
Unit 5: Education in Zoos
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Know how to present information to others
-
Understand design of zoo signage
-
Know the importance of zoos to current and future generations
-
Understand collaborative working in zoos
Unit 6: The Role of the Media in Zoos
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Know the advantages of the media to zoos
-
Know the different forms of exposure of a zoo to the media
-
Understand how Zookeepers are involved with the media
Unit 7: Zoo Animal Nutrition
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Understand how to source information on zoo animal nutrition
-
Know how to store and maintain animal feeds
-
Know the link between animal nutrition and health
Unit 8: Zoos Animal Management
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Understand the information required by Zookeepers to manage animals in a zoo
-
Know the importance of accurate record keeping in zoos
-
Understand the skills required to observe animals in a zoo
-
Know the importance of teamwork in a zoo and as part of a wider multidisciplinary team
Unit 9: Zoo Animal Health
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Know zoo animal diseases
-
Understand the prevention of ill health in zoo animals
-
Understand zoo animal behaviour in relation to good and ill health
Unit 10: Zoo Animal Enrichment
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Know the reasons for provision of environmental enrichment
-
Understand the benefits of environmental enrichment
-
Know the use of animal training for enrichment
Unit 11: Stress in Zoo Animals
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Understand zoo animal behaviour
-
Know the signs of stress in zoo animals
-
Understand the management of stress in zoo animals
Unit 12: Animals in Captivity
On completion of this unit, you will:
-
Know the needs of captive animals
-
Know the methods used to assess the welfare of animals in captivity
-
Understand the ethical considerations of keeping animals in captivity
-
Understand the breeding of animals in captivity
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
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.
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 placement 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 animal 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.
*Please note that dates for the practical training will be provided upon enrolment.
Qualifications
SEG Awards
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be awarded the Zookeeping Level 3 Diploma (Qualification Number: 610/3324/8).
Skills and Education Group Awards offer qualifications and assessments which are regulated by CCEA, Ofqual and Qualifications Wales. They are driven by delivering a high-quality and trusted service to Centres and learners, so that everyone gets the education they deserve.
After obtaining the SEG Awards Level 3 Diploma in Zookeeping, 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 the SEG Awards Level 3 Diploma in Zookeeping, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out how this course has helped real-life learners – people just like you - to reach their goals and achieve success!
Mark
Completed his practical zookeeper training at Blackpool Zoo.
"My week at Blackpool Zoo was above and beyond what I was expecting. I thought we’d be just cleaning out enclosures and feeding animals, rather than taking part in classroom discussions, creating enrichment projects, and all the other things we took part in. The education officers were very personable, and helpful in making the week an interesting, educational and engaging experience. I can honestly say that my week there was one of the most enjoyable experiences of my life, and above all, I now feel ready to take my next steps by applying for volunteer positions"
Ryan
Also underwent practical zookeeper training at Blackpool Zoo.
“My week at the zoo was very interesting and informational, and I learnt a lot regarding how the zoo operates and the requirements that must be met by the zoo staff in order to support the animals' wellbeing and survival.”
86.8%
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Practical Learning
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