A TV wildlife expert officially unveiled Dudley College of Technology’s new £7m animal study centre at the weekend.
Megan McCubbin, best known as a presenter of BBC Springwatch and Animal Park, ‘cut the ribbon’ at the new state-of-the-art centre on Saturday October 12, welcoming, students, visitors and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
The new facility, at the college’s Broadway Campus, will have a focus on education and conservation of a wide range of species and the natural world.
It has been designed to foster collaboration between students, employers and charities working to put animal welfare at the heart of what they do.
As well as offering full-time study programmes preparing learners for careers in zoology, animal management and wildlife conservation – the centre will allow people to study new subjects such as dog hydrotherapy and grooming.
New T level routes in animal science will also see the college offering pathways for learners looking to become veterinary nurses and veterinary surgeons.
TV presenter and conservationist Megan, daughter of Chris Packham, said: "It’s exciting to see the next generation of young conservationists, who are going to use their voice to change the world be given new opportunities through this facility.
"The conversation about how to protect animals and nature is continually evolving, so I’m delighted to see the people of Dudley being part of that and learning the skills needed to do that in the future.”
The new purpose-built centre is also home to a number of small mammas such as rabbits and hamsters, reptiles including chameleons and bearded dragons plus exotic animals such as chinchillas and sugar gliders to allow learners to get hands on handling experience.
Looking to the future, the centre will also be looking to offer qualifications in animal behaviour, pet sitting and animal first aid through short courses awarded by iPet and delivered by the college.
Summer programmes allowing younger animal lovers to learn about animals are also planned.
The launch event, which was combined with a public open day, was an opportunity for staff at the college to thank the many supporters who have backed the development including Dudley Zoo and Castle, Lucky Bunny Rescue, Proteus Reptiles and Brookswood Animal Sanctuary.
Diana Martin, vice principal at Dudley College of Technology, said: "The college is committed to expanding this curriculum area, providing more study options for young people and adults in animal care and welfare.
"There are a range of career options leading to fulfilling and well paid jobs in this area which we want to open up to Dudley learners. This new facility will give them a purpose built environment in which to develop their skills and knowledge, opening up those carers for them.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here