← All apprenticeships · Agriculture, environmental and animal care · ST0398

Level 4Higher · HNC/Cert HE

Animal training instructor

Planning, managing, delivering and reviewing the training of animals.

Typical duration

2 years

Training funded

Fully funded

Route

Agriculture, environmental and animal care

Standard ref

ST0398

Where this apprenticeship leads

Animal Trainer (Excludes Performing Animals)AI exposure 5% · Low

£20,000 - £25,000

£26,000 - £32,000

Full career profile - salary progression, top employers, AI outlook →

Role overview

An animal training instructor designs and delivers structured training programmes for animals and their handlers in settings such as dog training schools, equestrian centres, zoos, or wildlife parks. Apprentices learn the science of animal behaviour and learning theory, applying positive reinforcement and other evidence-based methods to achieve reliable, welfare-friendly training outcomes. This role can lead to specialist trainer, behaviour consultant, or training programme manager positions.

Careers this apprenticeship leads to

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

Apprenticeship route

Dog Groomer and Trainer

Apprenticeship route

Apprenticeship route

Apprenticeship route

Other Pest Controllers

Apprenticeship route

Cattery and Kennel Manager

Animal Boarding Assistants

Animal Welfare Worker