Coleg Cambria Northop recently hosted a successful nature and wildlife jobs expo, bringing together prominent organisations in the conservation sector to showcase career opportunities for students. The event attracted Animal Management learners from across North Wales, providing them with valuable insights into potential careers in wildlife and nature conservation.
Organisations such as Greenacres Animal Park, North Clwyd Animal Rescue, Dee Park, Emerald Pawtraits, and Nature’s SAFE participated in the event, offering work placements and discussing various roles within the industry. Representatives from the college’s Job Shop and Work Experience team were also present, along with FloogleBinder, a company specialising in sustainable trips and educational expeditions.
Sadie Thackaberry, Curriculum Leader for Animal Management at Coleg Cambria, noted a significant increase in student enrolment in animal management courses this academic year. She emphasised that the event was a celebration of the rising demand for skilled and dedicated professionals in the sector. “We had a morning filled with talks and presentations, followed by an employers’ open event and workshops on how to find jobs in this sector,” she explained.
Students had the opportunity to connect with a variety of organisations and charities, as well as to hear from past students who have successfully launched their own businesses or secured positions at some of the UK’s leading zoos and animal management facilities. Thackaberry expressed gratitude to all who attended, stating, “It was a hugely valuable and informative day that we will aim to replicate in the future.”
One of the exhibitors, Jessica Humphreys, the owner of Emerald Pawtraits, a pet photography business, shared her success story. Having graduated from Coleg Cambria’s Level 3 and HND Animal Management courses, she established her studio on Mold’s Bromfield Industrial Estate just last year. “I really enjoyed my time at Cambria,” she said. “With my love of photography, combining my passions seemed the perfect next step after college. Today has been a fantastic opportunity to network with other organisations and connect with students who are in the same position I was in. It demonstrates that there are many varied career options in this field.”
Attending the event was Henny Croft, an Entry Level 3 student in Animal Care from Llanelidan. “This expo has been interesting for me because I aspire to work with animals, either as a horse or dog groomer or in another role,” she commented. “It has shown me the range of different options available in the industry.”
The nature and wildlife jobs expo not only provided students with essential networking opportunities but also highlighted the growing importance of skilled professionals in the field of conservation. With increasing awareness of wildlife protection and the role of sustainable practices, events like this are crucial for preparing the next generation of animal management experts.
As the demand for dedicated workers in wildlife and conservation continues to rise, initiatives like the one held at Coleg Cambria are vital in shaping the future of the industry and inspiring students to pursue fulfilling careers in animal management.
