• Ofqual Code: 603/4158/0
• Qualification Level: 3
• Guided Learning Hours: 297
• Practical Location: online study with 1 week practical at either: Dartmoor Zoo, Blackpool Zoo, Colchester Zoo, Jimmys’ Farm and Wildlife Park.
• Estimated Study Time: 297 hours
• Start Date: Anytime
• Award type: Diploma
• Assessment Method: Variety of in-depth assessments for each unit

This Zookeeper diploma qualification consists of theory and practical training. The Ofqual regulated Level 3 Diploma in Zookeeping is an ideal qualification for working or volunteering in zoos or for working with wildlife in captivity in zoos, safari parks, wildlife collections. The theory is studied online from home, at your own pace and with full tutor support.

The practical training consists of 1 week training at either: Dartmoor Zoo, Blackpool Zoo, Colchester Zoo, Jimmys’ Farm and Wildlife Park.

This is a fantastic opportunity to gain experiential learning with a variety of species.

Zookeeper Practical Training Programme

The Practical Training programmes include both theoretical and practical learning with a focus on experiential learning.

These well regarded zoos and safari parks provide excellent, well established practical training and are home to many different species of animals from all over the world including lions, tigers, elephants, gorillas, zebras, flamingos, penguins, ostriches, owls, tortoises and more.

The practical training is tailored to each small group and include:

• Enclosure design (including Project Elephant)
• Primates – with a focus on enrichment and diets
• Education (including conservation and sustainability)
• Animal training/behaviour (specifically elephant and sea lion)
• Reptiles, Invertebrates – with a focus on specialist care
• Zoo administration: Including ZIMs, EEPs, Stud book management, Zoo licensing
• Research – this includes allocated time for personal project
• There will be direct contact with a number of key species including giraffes, penguins, prosimians, aardvarks, tapirs, sea lions.

This Zookeeper diploma qualification is open to anyone aged 16 or over. No prior qualifications are necessary. Please note, accommodation and food is not included in the course fees. Course fees must be paid in full prior to attending the practical placement.

Zookeeping Qualification Reviews

What will you remember about your 5 days of practical zoo training?
“Meeting amazing and ‘like minded’ people. Meeting the Keepers who are dedicated to animals and helping people understand them. The amazing social side of Blackpool zoo and helping the fantastic animals.
Now that I am more knowledgeable and have more experience with different animals, it has made me even more passionate about protecting animals. Through talking to my trainer, I’ve learned that my options are greater than I originally thought.”

Did the Level 3 in Zookeeping Qualification meet all of your expectations?
“Met and exceeded my expectations about the friendliness of the group and of the keepers. It was a lot more hands on than expected and with more species than expected! I came with an open mind and this week has been a dream: I have loved everything and do not want to go back to reality. I want to be a zoo keeper now.”

More Reviews of the Level 3 in Zookeeping Qualification
“Thoroughly recommend the course and Blackpool Zoo as placement. I wouldn’t change anything from the week. This course has helped me mentally and physically. I want to dedicate my like to animals. I know I can do it now. Thank you for everything. I will remember this week forever. Unforgettable.” –  Level 3 Zookeeping Student

‘Since starting the course I have obtained two volunteering positions one in a zoo, another in a rescue centre and I am already looking into where to go next with my studies’……..”.

“I cannot recommend this team and course enough. They have all been so welcoming to myself and my team this week from Animal Courses Direct. I feel like we have all learned so much during our zoo keeper training and the practical experience has been absolutely amazing. We have experienced everything so hands on and I feel really lucky to have been able to come to such a special zoo for this. Special shout out to Harry who has put up with us all week and taught us so much, he is excellent at what he does. I know things that we have discussed will stick with me and make the rest of the course so much easier. Thank you.” Luke B, Student.

Please click here for more of this students’ review of our Zookeeper qualification

Animal Courses Direct students talking about their 1 week practical course at Blackpool Zoo

Course Options