Askham Bryan College launches the UK’s first Teaching Zoo, transforming the future of Animal Education

Askham Bryan College is set to launch the UK’s first Teaching Zoo, transforming the future of Animal Education. Already established as one of the UK’s leading land-based colleges, this bold new educational initiative could reshape the future of education. 

This pioneering project proposes the transformation of the College’s Wildlife and Conservation Park into a student-led zoo, where learners gain real-world experience by managing daily operations and engaging directly with the public. 

The Teaching Zoo will provide visitors with an experience operated by students under the supervision of industry professionals. 

This innovative model will allow students to develop industry-standard skills across a variety of areas from animal care to zoo management, visitor engagement and sustainability, all while enhancing public understanding of wildlife conservation. 

Lauren Lane, Animal Sciences and Conservation Manager expressed what this means for the community: “This is about breaking down the barriers between education and industry. The Teaching Zoo gives our students not only theoretical knowledge but the hands-on experience they need to be future leaders in conservation, animal care, and environmental science.” 

This exciting project supports the College’s commitment to employability by preparing students for their future careers in the animal sector. It’s also an extension of what the College is already doing with their environmental responsibility and experiential learning. The College will achieve all this by extending public opening hours, revamping the park’s identity, and creating a more immersive and dynamic space for both students and visitors. 

“We hope this student-led model will serve as a blueprint for other institutions and encourage a wider conversation about innovation in further and higher education.” John Maxwell, Head of Animal Management. 

“Animal Aspirations will be very beneficial, as it will give us real industry experience and help us develop our skills by taking responsibility for the animals around the park.” Animal Management student, Askham Bryan College York. 

Members of the public can get a taste of the teaching zoo experience on weekdays from 13th April – 8th May as students take over the wildlife park for four weeks as part of their ‘Animal Aspirations’ project. Book online at abcwildlifepark.co.uk  

School groups aged from Year 9 to Year 11 can visit for free. School groups outside this can visit at a cost, for more information you can visit here or get in touch enquiries@askham-bryan.ac.uk