Our City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Land-Based Studies offers a practical animal care route for learners aged 14 and above. The qualification combines safe working practices with farm livestock care, animal handling and the preparation and maintenance of animal accommodation.
Learning takes place through supervised activities in a real working farm environment, supported by theory, research and assessment preparation. Learners build confidence, responsibility and practical skills while working towards a nationally recognised qualification.
The Certificate includes four units totalling 200 guided learning hours and provides a progression opportunity for learners who have completed the Level 1 Award.
The Level 1 Certificate in Land-Based Studies (Animal Care Route) is a City & Guilds vocational qualification designed to develop introductory skills and knowledge for working safely with farm animals.
Learners complete four units: Unit 201, Unit 217, Unit 218 and Unit 227. Teaching combines supported classroom learning with practical activities, giving learners opportunities to develop safe working habits, animal care skills and independence.
Learners aged 14+ who enjoy animals and want to develop practical land-based skills.
Home-educated learners and young people seeking a structured vocational qualification.
Learners who benefit from practical teaching and appropriate individual support, subject to meeting assessment requirements.
Those progressing from the Level 1 Award in Land-Based Studies or preparing for further animal care study.
No previous animal care qualification is required. Learners should be willing to work safely with animals and participate in both practical learning and knowledge assessments.
We consider each learner's abilities, interests, confidence and support requirements before enrolment.
The Certificate comprises four units of 50 guided learning hours each (200 GLH in total). Activities are selected to meet the City & Guilds requirements and the needs of the animals.
Learners explore identifying hazards, understanding risk assessments, selecting appropriate PPE, following safe working procedures, responding to emergencies and keeping working areas safe and tidy.
Focuses on farm livestock care, including providing feed and water, understanding reproduction, assisting with care of mothers and offspring, and understanding the collection of animal products. Suitable livestock species are used to meet the unit requirements.
Learners develop skills in safe animal handling and restraint, moving animals appropriately, and cleaning and maintaining accommodation. Activities emphasise animal welfare, minimising stress and safe use of relevant equipment.
Learners select suitable housing, fixtures and fittings, prepare accommodation, carry out cleaning and waste disposal, complete safety checks and assist with basic maintenance. Practical tasks use suitable animal species and accommodation types in line with the assessment requirements.
Farm-based activities are supported by classroom teaching and independent study. Learners practise following instructions, working responsibly, recording their work and developing confidence and independence.
Learning arrangements depend on the centre, availability and individual suitability.
Where available, small groups combine theory and supervised practical farm activities with opportunities for teamwork and communication.
Individual tuition allows sessions to be adapted to the learner's pace, confidence and support needs.
Some research and theory preparation may be completed at home. Guided learning, practical skills and assessments must meet City & Guilds requirements.
Unit 201: A supervised online multiple-choice examination.
Units 217, 218 and 227: Internally assessed unit assignments requiring evidence of the specified knowledge and practical skills.
Assessment arrangements, permitted support and any reasonable adjustments follow the awarding organisation's requirements. Learners must meet the required assessment criteria to achieve the qualification.
After completing the Level 1 Certificate, learners may be able to progress to:
Develop more advanced skills in animal health, feeding, welfare and behaviour.
Develop practical animal care skills, confidence and independence through hands-on husbandry activities, preparing learners for further study or future employment.
Consider species-focused training when ready for more advanced study.
Explore further vocational education, volunteering and suitable work experience.
Progression depends on each learner's achievements, abilities, interests and readiness for the next level.
Practical Education Beyond the Classroom
Providing practical, farm-based education, recognised qualifications and alternative learning opportunities at Frampton Farm in Kent and Poppies Farm in Berkshire, helping young people develop confidence, independence and skills for the future.
Access course materials, complete theory activities and keep up with your learning using Moodle.
Download the Moodle app for your phone or tablet.
Fees & Funding
Course Fees
Fees depend on the learning centre, delivery arrangement and individual support requirements. We confirm costs and payment arrangements before enrolment.
City & Guilds registration and assessment fees may apply.
Privately Funded Places
Parents and carers can enquire about privately funded places, subject to availability and individual course suitability.
School & Local Authority Funding
Schools and local authorities may commission placements as part of vocational education, alternative provision or agreed EOTAS arrangements. Funding must be approved by the relevant commissioning organisation.
Enquire About Fees
Please contact your preferred learning centre for fees, availability and enrolment information.