Weston College, Further Education for 16-18 year olds

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Meet Keeley – Animal Keeper at Puxton Park

Keeley is an Animal Keeper and the newest member of the team, having been with Puxton for just over a year. Keeley is jointly responsible for the welfare, care, cleaning, health checks, maintenance of living space and enrichment of the animals. She also conducts talks to park visitors.

"Keeley loves Charlie the parrot as he has a huge personality and loves chatting to visitors. She’s also fond of Bruce the donkey as he loves playing games with all of the keepers and has a real cheeky side!

I have always had a keen interest in animals but was unsure what I wanted to do after school. I studied the Animal Management, BTEC Extended Diploma as I knew it would open up a number of opportunities and career paths. It gave me the basic knowledge and understanding to further my education and led to the Animal Management FdSc at UCW.

I remember my College and UCW days fondly as I made lots of new friends, many of whom I am still friends with or work with today. During my time a College, I did work experience at two other zoo farms and Cadbury Garden Centre Pet Department, which developed into a full-time job before I joined Puxton.

Each day at Puxton is non-stop, with health checks, talks, shows, enrichment sessions, pen cleaning, bedding changes and general maintenance of the living areas.

I’m so grateful to Weston College for giving me the opportunity to fulfil my lifelong dream of working with animals.

What is great about the new Weston College animal education centre at Puxton?

Students will have the opportunity to work with a wide variety of animals in a fast-paced environment that also includes interacting with the public. As part of a team you will work and study alongside experienced and passionate keepers and have the opportunity to be involved with rare species and conservation projects.

Why is the animal care sector important and what are the best bits about working in it?

Caring for animals and educating the public on what we can do for animals and the environments. The animal sector is also playing an important role in rare species conservation.

What advice would you give to animal care students?

Be passionate about what you are learning (whether that is animals or something else) and never be afraid to share your own ideas. We all have brilliant and different ideas and, even if someone does not agree, it doesn’t mean it’s wrong.

And, don’t leave your projects to the last minute!"

 

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