You could apply directly for trainee animal technician jobs with GCSEs in maths, English and science. In addition, some employers may also expect you to have animal care and laboratory skills. You could gain these through a Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in:

• animal care or animal management
• applied science
• biology
• laboratory animal science and technology

Entry requirements

You may need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

You could gain some of the skills needed for this role, from an animal care and welfare assistant intermediate apprenticeship.

Depending on your previous experience and qualifications, you may be able to do an animal technologist advanced apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

You may be able to apply directly if you have previous experience as an animal care assistant or veterinary nurse.

You'll need:

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to use your initiative
• sensitivity and understanding
• thinking and reasoning skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• administration skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

As part of your day-to-day duties you will:

• provide exercise, food and water to the animals
• carry out regular observations
• make sure that animals are clean and comfortable
• control heating, lighting and humidity
• monitor animals' weight and behaviour
• follow hygiene rules in the facility
• keep accurate records

You could work at a research facility.

You may need to wear protective clothing.