Level 1 Animal Care
Next intake September 2026
Sign up now
Open Days! Come and meet us on 12 March and 1 April - details below
About the course
Level 1 Animal Care is delivered at the Ride High Equestrian Centre in Milton Keynes, giving young people aged 14–25 the chance to gain a nationally recognised qualification in a supportive and practical environment.
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This course is designed especially for students who don’t thrive in traditional classrooms. Learners work outdoors with a range of animals, building both industry skills and essential life skills to help them succeed in the future.​
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The course is delivered in partnership with Haddon Training who can also provide Functional Skills (Maths and English) training for students if required.
Find out more about Haddon Training here →
Modules
Learners can choose between modules and will gain experience in areas such as:
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Feeding small animals
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Cleaning animal accomodation
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Maintenance of equipment
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Controlled exercise for animals
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Maintaining Health & Safety in the workplace
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Handling of small animals
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To gain a Level 1 qualification in Animal Care*, students will study a set number of credits to gain an Award, Certificate or Diploma:
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*Please note that this is a non-ridden qualification.
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Course structure
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​Duration: 1 or 2 years, full-time (3 days per week, 36-week academic year)
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Group size: Maximum of 6, with 2 members of staff providing individual support
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Delivery: A mix of outdoor practical work and classroom activities.
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Assessment: Portfolio (photos, videos, witness statements, short answer questions, logbooks, creative evidence and answers can be written, recorded or dictated).​​
These are practical and hands-on courses for students. We offer a wide range of modules in an accessible way to help to build confidence, teamwork, mobility, coordination, fitness and subject knowledge.​
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Please note there are no formal examinations.
Term dates
Terms are six weeks long.
Click here for a list of term dates. ​
Location
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The course is delivered at the Ride High Equestrian Centre - a tranquil green space where young people can get active, learn new skills and enjoy being outdoors. The Centre is set in 37 acres of countryside in the heart of central Milton Keynes, easily accessible by bus and train.
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Who is the course for?
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Our Alternative Education Provision is primarily for children and young people who, because of exclusion, illness, or other reasons such as SEND or SEMH, would not otherwise receive suitable education. This includes learners who:
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Have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)
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Struggle with traditional school settings
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Need additional support for SEND or SEMH challenges
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May experience school phobia, trauma, or medical needs
Our team will work in partnership with parents and carers to ensure that each student has a personalised and appropriate educational programme that will meet student needs with due regard to safeguarding, risk assessments and expected outcomes.
How to apply
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We welcome referrals from schools, local authorities, parents and carers.
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Please contact us to discuss student details and EHCP needs.
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Call: 01908 666434
Email: education@aimhighuk.co.uk
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Our team will guide you through the referral process, which includes a visit and consultation to ensure the course is the right fit.
Open Days
Come and meet us, see the facilities, and learn more about the programme:
12 March (3 pm - 4 pm) and
1 April (10 am - 11 am and 4 pm - 5 pm).