Animal technologist
Level 3 · AdvancedHealth and science 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
An animal technologist cares for laboratory animals used in biomedical research, ensuring their welfare and health while supporting scientists in conducting compliant and ethical research studies. Apprentices learn specialist husbandry for rodents and other research species, aseptic techniques, and the regulatory framework governing the use of animals in scientific procedures. This role can lead to named animal care and welfare officer, study director, or senior technologist positions.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Specialist husbandry for laboratory animal species including rodents and rabbits
The 3Rs framework: Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement in research
Legislation governing animal use in scientific procedures (ASPA 1986)
Health monitoring, clinical observation, and recognising pain in research animals
Aseptic technique and biosecurity in a barrier or containment facility
Basic technical procedures such as dosing, sampling, and anaesthesia support
Record-keeping and data integrity in a regulated research environment
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Carry out daily husbandry checks and welfare monitoring of research animals
Maintain clean and controlled housing environments to regulatory standard
Assist scientists with technical procedures under appropriate licences
Observe and record signs of pain, distress, or abnormal behaviour
Apply the 3Rs in daily practice and suggest refinements where possible
Maintain accurate records of animal procedures, health, and breeding
Ensure compliance with Home Office licence conditions and ASPA regulations
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
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What it’s really like
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