Level 1 • Full-time • Agriculture & Countryside Management department
This sector is all about sustaining, protecting and using the natural environment. So if you love the countryside, are passionate about its protection and conservation, and the livelihoods that rely on its existence, then this is the career for you.
This course is an ideal introduction to countryside and conservation studies, where you will learn the basic skills required to progress to further education in countryside and conservation, arboriculture or horticulture.
No Qualification • Part-time • Agriculture & Countryside Management department
This course is suitable for landowners, gamekeepers, pest controllers, farmers, arborists and those involved in land/forestry management
The course will give you a working knowledge of the legislation surrounding grey and red squirrels and practical methods of managing the grey squirrel. Upon successful completion of the course you will be obtain a certificate to prove your knowledge, understanding and competence of squirrel management.
The course is held over two days with the first day mainly classroom based covering legislation, ecology of both the grey and red squirrel. The principles of available management methods for the grey squirrel. Survey methods and identifying the presence of the grey squirrel. Setting traps and the laws surrounding trapping and where to put them for maximum impact. Shooting and the basic principles of marksmanship.
The second day will be mainly field based putting the theory from the previous session into practice. Carrying out survey for evidence of the squirrels, the placement of traps and setting of the most commonly used traps on the market that are used for squirrel control. Setting up bait stations and ensuring the area is safe, the gun is suitable and the shooting is accurate.
Level 2 • Full-time • Agriculture & Countryside Management department
This sector is all about sustaining, protecting and using the natural environment. So if you love the countryside, are passionate about its protection and conservation, and the livelihoods that rely on its existence, then this is the career for you.
If you would love a career working outdoors then this course is ideal for you. Throughout your studies you will learn the skills and knowledge needed to manage land and wildlife.
With access to our beautiful farms and estates this course focuses on practical skills development, ensuring you are work ready when you finish your studies. The grounds of our Rosewarne campus are spread over approximately 47 hectares, allowing you to immerse yourself in every aspect of countryside living.
Our Level 3 Animal Management Diploma at Duchy College is an exciting stepping stone on your way to a career working with animals. This course can be studied as an one year Advanced Diploma in Animal Management Diploma or as a two year Extended Advanced Diploma in Animal Management, and we will work with you to decide which option will be the best choice for you.
Our state of the art animal management centres at Duchy College Rosewarne and Duchy College Stoke Climsland provide dedicated access to a huge range of animal species such as small mammals, exotics , birds, aquatics and farm animals. Learners will also have the opportunity to visit and access real industry environments including Dartmoor Zoological Park.
Completing this course will allow you to start your career in the animal care industry or prepare you for University. Caring for animals can be an extremely fulfilling and rewarding career; from working in kennels and catteries to wildlife rescue, there are a wide range of careers available on successful completion of your course. If you find an area of study you love whilst completing the course you can choose to go on to further study at University and qualify as an animal nutritionist, behaviourist or conservationist.
We offer a Zoo Animal Management pathway at Level 3, which iis perfect if you would like a career caring for animals in a zoo-based setting. We work in partnership with Dartmoor Zoological Park to ensure you gain the practical, real-life experience that employers look for.
This Level 3 Zoo Animal Management Diploma is perfect if you would like a career caring for animals in a zoo-based setting. We work in partnership with Dartmoor Zoological Park to ensure you gain the practical, real-life experience that employers look for.
There are one- and two-year options available with this pathway and we will work with you to decide which is best for you.
Animal management departments on site at Duchy College Stoke Climsland and Bicton College will provide you with practical experience, you will also undertake one day a week work experience at Dartmoor Zoological Park, where you will work with the keepers and the education team.
You will love getting hands-on experience at Dartmoor Zoological Park or our animal management centres on campus at Bicton and Duchy. You'll also have the opportunity to take part in field trips in the UK, Europe or our life-changing trip to Africa.
Level 3 • Full-time • Agriculture & Countryside Management department
Creating and maintaining good, healthy habitats which are beneficial to all wildlife is at the heart of a gamekeeper’s job. Gamekeeping has changed significantly over the years and while you will still be responsible for the husbandry of both reared and wild game for shooting, your time will also be spent helping to shape the countryside and protecting its species.
If you love working outdoors, care about the countryside and the environment and would like to make significant contributions to the biodiversity and conservation of rare species, then why not join the 5,000 full-time gamekeepers currently employed in the UK.
British gamekeepers currently manage approximately 7.3 million hectares of the land in the UK and work closely with farm managers and foresters to help conserve both game and wildlife, using economically viable estate management policies.
The welfare of equines used and cared for by humans is an area of increasing scrutiny. As a result there is a need for evidence based practice within equestrianism, and a requirement for highly trained and skilled scientists and practitioners who can assist in the understanding of the horse-human interactions and associated expectations. This MSc considers not only the use of equines within mainstream equestrianism, but also in allied industries such as in conservation projects, therapy riding, public services and entertainment.
This MSc Equitation Science is a higher-level qualification that allows those with a good knowledge of equine science to further develop and focus their skills and to advance their knowledge of the science and practice underpinning equitation. During the course you will quickly appreciate the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to this complex and continually developing area.
As a full-time student, you will study six taught modules covering key aspects of equitation science including equine behaviour, training, psychology, nutrition, management, human attributes and technological developments. You will also gain a thorough appreciation of ethical and sustainable equitation and examine contemporary issues within equitation science.
Modules are continuously updated to incorporate recent research findings and reflect current thinking. This programme also offers you the opportunity to study a specific aspect of equitation practice in-depth as, having completed the taught modules, you will then conduct a three-month research project of your choice culminating in your dissertation.
This programme offers you the opportunity to study a subject that truly inspires and engages you. You will advance and expand your skills in a supportive and personal environment. You will be taught by staff that are not only academically acclaimed and well connected on an international level, but also accessible and genuinely interested in helping you to develop your potential and achieve personal goals. Through the staff you will also have access to specialist equitation science equipment and international level research ideas and findings to enhance your education and future employability.
To request an application form, please email: dce.admissions.office@duchy.ac.uk
If you are interested in working with animals and are considering working in this rewarding and varied industry, the Level 1 Land-based Operations course is for you.
As you study you will learn, develop and practice skills required for employment and/or career progression in the Land-based sector and gain valuable transferable skills. Throughout the course you will be challenged, but the team of dedicated tutors will support you every step of the way to explore where you might want your career path to take you.
The Level 1 Diploma also offers the opportunity to improve on your GCSE grades in Maths and English if you want to gain a higher grade. This could assist you to progress onto a Level 2 programme or Apprenticeship.
At Duchy College, Rosewarne.
The Animal Care Unit is a wonderful learning environment and offers practical and theory sessions which are taught using the on-site facilities which are truly amazing. You will work in groups and complete practical tasks, under supervision, working on the College Campus with the wide range of animals in the Animal Unit. The animals you will be working with range from Large animals (Goats, Donkeys, pigs etc), Small animals (Rabbits, Guinea pigs, Chinchillas, Degus, Hamsters, Mice etc), Birds (Finches, Parakeets, Quails etc) and Exotics including (Reptiles, Amphibians and fish) so you can see there is literally something for everyone. You will also have the opportunity to learn about growing food plants, making use of the College’s diverse facilities.
At Duchy College Stoke Climsland
We have a large range of animals at the college including rabbits and guinea pigs, goats, pigs, and rodents. We also have snakes, lizards, amphibians as well as fish. Alongside practical lessons your theory lessons in the classroom will include Health and Safety, preparing to work in Land-based industry, assist with the health and well-being of animals, introduction to wildlife and conservation, assist with feeding and watering animals, assist with the preparation and maintenance of animal accommodation and assist with the handling and restraint of animals. All units are designed to give you the basic skills needed to care for a range of animals. Our animal care unit has been built to provide an environment for students to be able to learn the basics of animal care replicating industry standards. Our lecturers have background knowledge and experience in the animal care industry and are passionate about sharing this with students.
During the course there will be guest speakers to share their knowledge and experience to enhance your learning and personal development. You will also have the opportunity to visit some animal establishments to see how your learning can be put into practice in the world of work.
Level 2 • Work-based • Agriculture & Countryside Management department
The industry provides unique opportunities for young people to work in a technically advanced and innovative environment, producing one of the country’s most important products – food which accounts for 14% of the British GDP. Businesses within the industry range from small family farms through to large integrated organisations working across the food supply chain. The key role for a Stockperson is to raise the animals with optimal welfare and consideration for their needs throughout the different stages of their life. This is practical work involving a combination of technology and manual labour. Being a stockperson requires compassion, self-motivation and the ability to work in a team and independently.
A stockperson will be responsible for their own work, but will have close supervision. As animal welfare is a priority on farms, key to being a good stockperson is understanding your limits and knowing when to ask for help. Working with live animals presents a range of challenges to overcome and ensures no two days will be the same. This standard follows a ‘core and options’ approach. The core covers the generic requirements for looking after animals competently and the sector options provide more specific needs for different livestock. One option will be taken in addition to the core skills to complete this apprenticeship, which provides a solid foundation for a range of progression opportunities within the industry.
At college you will cover 50% theory and 50% practical work, which will include learning more about tractor and machinery use, nutrition, health and welfare, health and safety, environment and conservation, and welding.
You will be expected to undertake and pass a range of courses as part of this apprenticeship to include emergency first aid at work and the safe use of pesticides as well as choosing to do one of the following
Boom sprayer, mounted, trailed or self-propelled equipment
Granular applicator equipment
Handheld applicator equipment
Other short legislative courses are heavily subsidised such as Tele Handler, ATV and Mule.
The welfare of equines used and cared for by humans is an area of increasing scrutiny. As a result there is a need for evidence based practice within equestrianism, and a requirement for highly trained and skilled scientists and practitioners who can assist in the understanding of the horse-human interactions and associated expectations. This MSc considers not only the use of equines within mainstream equestrianism, but also in allied industries such as in conservation projects, therapy riding, public services and entertainment.
This MSc Equitation Science is a higher-level qualification that allows those with a good knowledge of equine science to further develop and focus their skills and to advance their knowledge of the science and practice underpinning equitation. During the course you will quickly appreciate the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to this complex and continually developing area.
As a full-time student, you will study six taught modules covering key aspects of equitation science including equine behaviour, training, psychology, nutrition, management, human attributes and technological developments. You will also gain a thorough appreciation of ethical and sustainable equitation and examine contemporary issues within equitation science.
Modules are continuously updated to incorporate recent research findings and reflect current thinking. This programme also offers you the opportunity to study a specific aspect of equitation practice in-depth as, having completed the taught modules, you will then conduct a three-month research project of your choice culminating in your dissertation.
This programme offers you the opportunity to study a subject that truly inspires and engages you. You will advance and expand your skills in a supportive and personal environment. You will be taught by staff that are not only academically acclaimed and well connected on an international level, but also accessible and genuinely interested in helping you to develop your potential and achieve personal goals. Through the staff you will also have access to specialist equitation science equipment and international level research ideas and findings to enhance your education and future employability.
To request an application form, please email: dce.admissions.office@duchy.ac.uk
Level 6 • Full-time • Wildlife Conservation & Zoology department
This degree equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to work within the field of conservation. There is an emphasis on practical application using both national and international examples, and utilising field specialists within the institute and externally as guest speakers to discuss current issues and research in conservation.
Modules cover a range of subjects from anatomy and physiology to specific animal behaviour and population management. A range of optional modules in the second and third years allows you to personalise your degree programme.
The programme is delivered at Cornwall College Newquay with a range of lectures, workshops, seminars, laboratory and field-based practical sessions.
There will be some modules taught in situ utilising the surrounding environment, for example habitat and wildlife surveys within the first year Fieldwork module. These will involve a mix of day or residential field trips to develop
and apply survey techniques in the field.
Level 5 • Full-time • Wildlife Conservation & Zoology department
Zoological conservation is concerned with maintaining the wonderful diversity of animal life (including invertebrates) that exists on our planet. Involving the protection and management of animal populations and their habitats in order to minimise the harmful effects human activities may have on them.
The programme gives you the skills required to help conserve wild animals by developing your knowledge in topics such as ecology, biodiversity, animal nutrition, captive breeding and reintroduction, conservation of aquatic organisms, and primate behaviour and learning. You will also gain first-hand experience in observing, surveying and the occasional handling of animals.
As well as traditional lectures, fieldwork and laboratory work, you will take part in workshops delivered by animal and wildlife experts from organisations such as the Cornwall Wildlife Trust, the National Trust and RSPCA. Guest speakers play an important role in your learning and they are used regularly to provide more expert knowledge in some of the specialised modules.
Working in industry is the very essence of a foundation degree and as such you will also undertake work experience locally or overseas. This opportunity helps you to develop graduatelevel skills that will help you in any job. Work placements and the contacts you make may well be your link to employment on completing the programme.
This course is also available with Science Gateway, perfect for you if you would like to study any of the science-based Foundation Degrees (FdSc) we offer, but don’t have the right qualifications or grades to do so.
*subject to approval by the University of Plymouth
Level 5 • Full-time • Wildlife Conservation & Zoology department
The BSc (Hons) Applied Zoology and Conservation is a full-time four year programme designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to work within the field of conservation.
Modules cover a range of subjects from anatomy and physiology to behaviour and population/habitat management.
There is an emphasis on practical application using both national and international examples, and utilising field specialists within the institute and externally as guest speakers to discuss current issues and research in zoological conservation.
The placement year will take place between years 2 and 3, requiring a total of 26 weeks on placement with either a single or multiple relevant employers/organisations. During the placement year you will need to conduct an independent research project and will be supported in the lead up to the placement and throughout by a placement year supervisor. The research conducted as part of the placement year project cannot be used for the Honours Project in Year 3.
Level 3 • Full-time • Wildlife Conservation & Zoology department
Our Level 3 diplomas in wildlife conservation and animal science are equivalent to A-levels and are designed for you to go straight on to university study. Cornwall College Newquay is proud of its university provision, in partnership with Plymouth University, offering degrees in a number of specialist animal and conservation subjects.
Do you enjoy being outdoors, at the beach, around the Cornish coast and countryside? Do you also have a passion for wildlife and conservation? If so our wildlife conservation diploma is designed with you in mind.
Our Newquay campus is dedicated to teaching others about animals and conservation and makes full use of its partnership with Newquay Zoo and Blue Reef Aquarium. During your studies we will give you all the expert knowledge and skills you need to start your career in either animal science or wildlife conservation.
