A Suffolk college is offering new vet nursing courses - as it prepares to become a zoo.
Suffolk Rural at Otley - part of Suffolk New College - applied for a zoo licence in 2022.
The campus - which lies eight miles north of Ipswich - is already home to a host of species including dogs, rodents, horses, livestock, meerkats and alpacas.
It now wants to cement its status as one of the UK's top sites to study animals.
Qualified vet nurse Jess Bewley, of Debenham, is helping set up the new courses in conjunction with programme award body Central Qualifications which is based in Elmswell.
"This is one of the most exciting times to be involved in animal studies in the history of the college," she said.
"We already have amazing facilities and a long-standing history of animal pathways. These new courses will be another valuable string to our bow."
The college plans to work with local vet practices and many other external charities and organisations including the army to enable students to secure work placements while studying on the programme.
"There is currently a huge need for people to work in vet nursing so we will be teaming up with partners to help fill those skills gaps," said Jess.
"We already have great facilities and a wide range of animals but we are planning on further investment by purchasing an x-ray machine and other equipment for training, simulations and demonstrations."
Jess gained a media degree and worked in libraries before gaining her vet nurse qualification.
"Vet nursing is a skilled profession and it’s a career to be proud of – it’s very rewarding and satisfying to help care for animals," she said.
Former college student Megan Mckenzie of Ipswich will be among the tutors teaching the course.
"I studied on a foundation degree at the college and it’s great to be back. Although I’m a teacher now, I still work in practices during my spare time and I’m a great advocate for this course and the profession," she said.
"You get to have a real connection with animals and you get to interact with clients. Every day is different and it’s a brilliant profession.
The courses start in April and September 2023. For more details visit: https://www.suffolk.ac.uk/courses/detail/diploma-in-veterinary-nursing/
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