Level 3 Award in Primate Studies

The Ofqual regulated Level 3 Award in Primate Studies gives an excellent overview of the non-human primate species. The qualification explores the diverse biology, ecology and behaviour of primates. Learners will be able to explore the natural behaviours of primates and how they interact both socially and with their environment.

Learners will also learn about different conservation efforts to protect primate species and gain an understanding of primate management. Learners can compare how primates are managed in the wild and in the captive environment, looking at how enrichment can improve the welfare of captive primates.

This Level 3 Award qualification will give learners a grounding in the basics of primate care. The qualification is of use to those interested in primatology and those already working with animals in either a captive environment or in the wild. On completion of the Award, learners may choose to progress onto higher level study, practical occupational training or a career in primate care and welfare or conservation.

Placement

This qualification includes a one week placement at Wild Futures Monkey Sanctuary (WFMS) in Looe, Cornwall. WFMS is a permanent home for monkeys rescued from the UK pet trade and provides life-long care to monkeys, many of whom many have suffered from years of abuse and neglect. They have an expert team of carers who have the relevant skills to meet the complex physical, social and emotional needs of each individual, providing a high level of care.

Learners will have the opportunity to assist in all parts of the daily work including the cleaning of monkey enclosures, food preparation and creating enrichment items. Minimum age requirement of 18.

ZSL Fellowship

When you study a wildlife, zoology or conservation course with Animal Courses Direct, you will be eligible to apply for ZSL Fellowship. Fellows get unlimited access for them and a family guest to ZSL London and Whipsnade Zoos plus borrowing rights in the extensive ZSL library of rare zoological texts. Enrol on your course and apply directly to ZSL for Fellowship.

Illegal Wildlife Trade

Sadly, many primates are taken from the wild each year to provide people with exotic pets. Animals taken to supply the exotic pet trade are usually young animals. They are often still dependent on their mothers and, in the process of taking them from their family groups, the adult primates can be killed. The pet trade is a very lucrative market and, unfortunately, capturing and selling primates is good business.

Despite many campaigns aimed at raising awareness of the realities of keeping primates as pets, people continue to be attracted to the idea of having a ‘cute’ monkey in their home. This demand encourages the illegal capturing of wild primates. Without adequate enforcement of current legislation, primates will continue to appear for sale on websites, in pet shops and in local markets.

Zookeepers, conservationists, zoologists and animal keepers can all play vital roles in educating the public about natural primate behaviour and how keeping these creatures captive as pets is inhumane.