Reporting on the Animal Welfare Taster Day

The morning was lecture-based to give a taste of what studying in Higher Education will involve. The programme included “Better Animal Training”, “How Animals Fly” and “Why Behaviour is important in Conservation”.

Two students, Andrew & Graham were enlisted into a training activity to consider clicker training for dogs. The audience suggested simple operations to train Andrew to do but the only feedback he could be given was through clicks to reinforce positive behaviour. Graham was instructed to give rewarding clicks but no verbal clues. An entertaining activity – but it led to consideration of the theory behind clicker training.

The afternoon session included a briefing on course choices that might appeal to Animal Management students if they consider becoming a student of the University of Chester. The partnership between Reaseheath College and Chester was emphasised. Honours degrees (including Animal Behaviour and Animal Behaviour & Welfare) and Foundation degrees (3 pathways of Animal Management including Zoo Management, Behaviour & Welfare and Training & Counselling) were explored.

Animal Management students were able to quiz students on degree programmes about their experience at Reaseheath & the University. A campus tour followed and finally the opportunity to ask about the practical issues, such as finance.

For more information about this event, contact:

Margaret Hannigan - VETNET LLN Regional Manager (North West).