← All apprenticeships · Agriculture, environmental and animal care · ST0397
Level 2Intermediate · GCSE equivalent

Animal care and welfare assistant

Looking after the routine day to day care of domestic and/or wild animals.

Typical duration
1 year
Training funded
up to £5,000
Route
Agriculture, environmental and animal care
Standard ref
ST0397
Where this apprenticeship leads
Animal Care Services Occupations n.e.c.AI exposure 6% · Low
Starting out
£18,000 - £22,000
Experienced
£24,000 - £30,000
Senior
£35,000+
Full career profile - salary progression, top employers, AI outlook →

Role overview

An animal care and welfare assistant provides daily husbandry, feeding, and welfare monitoring for a range of animals in settings such as kennels, catteries, pet shops, zoos, or rescue centres. Apprentices learn to recognise signs of good and poor welfare, maintain clean and safe environments, and handle animals appropriately. This role is an excellent starting point for a career in animal care, with progression to senior keeper, animal technologist, or veterinary support roles.

Careers this apprenticeship leads to

Salary progression, top employers and day-to-day reality for the roles this standard prepares you for.

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