Joshua
Herring

Why did you choose to study your course at Brackenhurst?

I chose to study at Brackenhurst because of where it is situated, in the countryside. It is also only a short drive away from the city of Nottingham, where I live. I like the fact it provides an ‘outdoor classroom’ which means we take part in lots of outdoor practicals. I previously studied Level 2 Animal Care at Brackenhurst when I left school in 2017. I loved the whole ethos and positivity of the place, and everyone was so nice and welcoming. I liked the fact that it is a university that you can study college courses at and, because it is a university, they treat you more like an adult.

Tell us more about your course. What do you enjoy studying the most?

I enjoyed the practicals mostly. This is because tutors and technicians are very supportive, and I learn best with hands-on experience. I also enjoyed the Animal Welfare and Ethics module; it was very interesting to learn about individuals’ different views and how humans treat animals and why. Furthermore, all the lecturers have lots of valuable knowledge and experience in the animal management sector which represents the passion they have for the subject.

What do you think about the facilities available on your course and what do you use the most?

Brackenhurst has excellent facilities such as the animal unit with lots of different species of animals from exotics, dogs, cats, rodents, and rabbits. You are required to be involved in the day-to-day care of the animals which is very beneficial for skills related to the course and life skills.  As well as a well-equipped library with private study rooms if you are like me that can only study in silence.

What do you think about Brackenhurst Campus? What do you get up to in your spare time?

The campus is beautiful. The wildlife, flowers, and animals make the place stand out compared to other colleges. Between lessons, one of the best places to go is the Brack farmhouse. It is a warm, peaceful, and quiet place to eat lunch and study. When it is warmer it is so nice to sit outside and take in the wonderful views and fresh air.

Have you had any support from other departments? How was your experience accessing these/ was the service helpful?

The employability department is very helpful, if you need help finding a placement to gain work experience hours needed for the course, they can help with this. They are also good with interview advice and CV writing. Also, the student support team is very supportive if you need any support with anything from stress to mental health.

What is your top tip for someone considering studying at Brackenhurst Campus?

My advice to someone considering studying at Brackenhurst is to find a work experience placement before you start. This is because you will then have a better chance at completing all the hours you need to, and most importantly you gain valuable industry experience that will look great on your CV!

Have you been involved in any placements, work experience, or volunteering as part of your course? If so, what did you do and what did you achieve?

While I was studying this course, I was working at Stonebridge City Farm. This is an amazing little place in the centre of Nottingham. It has a wide range of species from chickens to meerkats. The staff are supportive and are always there to help. I learned a lot of things that linked to my course such as how to handle and restrain animals and how to complete health checks which are important to ensure the animals are kept healthy.

Why would you recommend your course to someone considering studying it?

I would recommend this course because it is very informative if you do not know what kind of career you would want to go into after college. You study about a range of different industries such as zoological health and welfare and animal nursing. There are also 2 different pathways in the second year depending on what most interests you.

What are your plans for after the course and how do you feel your course will help you to achieve that goal?

Once I have finished the course, I am planning to study a degree in Zoo Biology at NTU. Whilst at college, my lecturers have helped me prepare for university by assisting with my personal statement, as well as employability that will be useful for when I go into industry afterward. My lecturers have also been very good at pushing me to reach my targets so that I can make my goals.

Final thoughts?

I would recommend anyone that is interested in studying any land-based subject to study at Brackenhurst because the facilities are amazing as are the staff!