Oliver
Mather

Why did you choose to study your course at Brackenhurst?

I chose this course because of my love for animals. The career I was originally working towards became less interesting to me so I thought I may as well do something I love, and this course offers a 1-year method to being able to go to university, so I went for it.

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

So far, I’ve really enjoyed being in animal behaviour and welfare lessons. As the lecturer always finds ways to make them interesting, and is open to suggestions and contributions in practical lessons. For example, when we were learning about owl pellets and we asked if we could do a whole lesson on them, we then had the opportunity in the lab dissecting them.

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

Out of all the universities in the UK I’ve been to, Brackenhurst has the best animal unit by far, the range of species and chances to get involved is incredible. The technicians are so friendly as well, they will make you feel comfortable and give you constant opportunities to try something new. The weekly volunteering is great as it gives you some real experience of what working with animals would be like, this is only offered by Brackenhurst and is the main reason I chose it.

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

The campus is a great green space, perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors and wildlife. In my spare time, I will go on walks around the Brackenhurst estate, volunteer or go into the city.

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

I’ve had some great help from the other departments. I feel uncertain about what I would like to do next but I went to a career appointment, and it has really helped me explore my options and get some clarity on my future.

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

I would recommend bringing your wellies/boots, and some overalls. I would recommend exploring campus and volunteering with animals.

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? 

I spent a lot of hours of volunteering at the animal unit, and I couldn’t have asked for anything more, it’s only a 5-minute walk from the campus and the technicians are so knowledgeable and willing to let you work with what you want, it’s really the ideal situation to be in.

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

I would recommend this course to anyone that loves animals and is willing to get stuck in and learn about all different aspects of the animal industry, the teachers are all so amazing and willing to help with assignments. This place is so stress free and caring. I reckon it is probably one of the best in the UK for this course. The facilities are also great and there is constant support and opportunities arising in all aspects.

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

Once I’ve finished my course I plan on travelling for a year. But after that I will return and do a degree in Zoo Biology. This course has helped me understand the industry so much more and given me so many different options for what I could do next (if I didn’t want to do a degree), I couldn’t ask for anything more from this course. I specifically want to be a zookeeper which requires a HE degree nowadays, but this university will give you more than that, as it will give you the hands-on experience they are looking for and this will make you stand out.