Budding zookeepers get hands-on experience

A college has unveiled plans to open a Teaching Zoo to give students "real-world experience" of animal care.

Askham Bryan College in York is transforming its Wildlife and Conservation Park into a student-led zoo for four weeks from 13 April.

Students will manage daily operations and engage directly with the public as they get a taste of operating a busy visitor attraction.

Lauren Lane, animal sciences and conservation manager, said: "The Teaching Zoo gives our students not only theoretical knowledge but the hands-on experience they need to be future leaders in conservation, animal care and environmental science."

The college will be extending public opening hours and creating a "more immersive and dynamic space" for students and visitors.

The Wildlife and Conservation Park originally opened to the public in 2017, and welcomes 20,000 visitors a year.

The park is home to more than 100 species including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrates, many of which are threatened.

John Maxwell, head of animal management, said: "We hope this student-led model will serve as a blueprint for other institutions and encourage a wider conversation about innovation in further and higher education."

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