Photo credit: Matt Brodie
Hartpury College is excited to announce the introduction of two new T Levels in Animal Management and Behaviour, and Animal Science and Management, offering students an exceptional opportunity to gain practical skills and knowledge for a successful career in the animal industry. The T Levels will welcome their first cohort of students in September 2025.
T Levels are innovative two-year technical programmes, developed in collaboration with employers and educational providers, designed to meet the needs of modern industries. They combine high-quality classroom learning with substantial practical experience, giving students the tools they need to excel in further study or skilled employment.
Students who enrol on the animal subject T Levels will explore key topics such as health and safety, sustainability, biosecurity, anatomy and physiology, ethics, animal health, and learning theories. They’ll also gain real-world skills to help them optimise animal health, influence positive behaviours, and promote animal welfare and conservation.
Hartpury College’s facilities provide a hands-on learning environment when students are engaged with practical sessions on campus. These include:
- The Animal Management Centre, featuring a vivarium with reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates, as well as an aquatics room housing tropical and coldwater fish including piranhas.
- The Walled Animal Garden, home to species such as meerkats and prairie dogs, as well as Millie the giant Sulcata tortoise, alongside teaching spaces and aviaries.
- The Orchard Paddocks, where students can engage with wallabies, llamas, and rare Bagot goats.
- Additional opportunities with livestock on Hartpury’s commercial farm and with horses at the world-class equestrian centre, bring learning to life to support placement and classroom time.
A defining feature of T Levels is the 315-hour industry placement, equivalent to 45 days or nine weeks. This hands-on experience allows students to apply their skills in a professional setting, develop valuable connections, and gain insights into their chosen career paths.
Upon completion of the T Level, students will be ready to pursue higher education or step directly into the workforce. Whether progressing to a related degree* or seeking employment in animal care, welfare, conservation, or management, graduates will be well-equipped to make an impact on the industry.
Hartpury College already offers T Levels in agriculture. Check out the full range of T Levels here.
*University and programme dependent