Safari Academy - West Midlands Safari Park

Partnered with West Midlands Safari Park, we offer a range of Animal Care courses!

The Safari Academy at West Midlands Safari Park is a sustainable, state-of-the-art educational facility which has five fully equipped classrooms, specifically designed for visiting groups and Further Education Animal Care students. The unique learning environment the Academy offers allows students to get up close and personal with a variety of our smaller animals in our two animal areas. Our outdoor classroom enhances the curriculum linked learning we deliver in a safe and secure environment.

Where will I be studying?

As the only educational partner of West Midlands Safari Park, you will be based at the Safari Academy in West Midlands Safari Park. You will be taught by experienced tutors, and you'll gain hands-on experience whilst studying one of our Animal Care courses. A great stepping stone into the animal care industry!

How do I get to the Safari Academy?

If you are studying at the Safari Academy, you will need to make your own way to West Midlands Safari Park each study day.

Take a look at our finance options if you think you'll struggle with the cost of travel.

Fees and Finance

Are there places to eat and socialise?

At West Midlands Safari Park, you can eat lunch in the outdoor undercover picnic area by the coach park where there is seating for up to 250 students. There are also multiple picnic benches located around the park for smaller groups.

Do you have study areas for students?

There are plenty of classroom at the Safari Academy for students to sit and study together when they are not in classes.

Nicola Anslow

Education Manager - Safari Academy

My background is in teaching, where I taught in schools for over 20 years before becoming Education Manager at West Midlands Safari Park. Working in the animal care industry makes my job very varied and exciting. The best part is being amongst the stunning collection of animals we have close by. The industry is competitive, but if you have a passion for caring for animals, it's right for you.

Gaynor Edgar

Head of Department

With over 30 years in education, I bring extensive experience initially within Early Years and later in Further Education. My career showcases a commitment to creating inspiring learning environments and promoting growth and excellence. Starting as an advocate for early childhood development, I've evolved into a leadership role as Head of Department. With my expertise, I aim to drive positive change and inspire the next generation of learners and educators.

Adam Green

Course Lead - Safari Academy

Within my role, I can shape our students into becoming future Animal Management practitioners by utilising a blend of theoretical classroom activities with tangible industry practical experiences. We work tirelessly to promote not only our animals' welfare needs but also our students' outcomes so we can be confident in maintaining the health and welfare of animals in all settings. Alongside animal management knowledge, we also help foster independence and personal and employment skills using our industry professionals. Students can take what they have learned in the classroom and apply it at our dedicated Academy enclosures contained within our Academy under the watchful eye of our Discovery keeper.

Chloe Walton-Stenson

Course Lead - Safari Academy

Teaching at the Safari Academy is a unique and incredible setting for our learners. It means we can teach them to develop their skills to industry standards. We have a supportive campus where teaching staff get to know every learner on site. As part of a fast-moving industry, there’s always more we can learn about animals, so still being part of the zoo community and a lecturer means I can share best practices with our students. I am so proud of working in a zoo that is a BIAZA member, and I hope our students will be proud of this, too.

Explore our Animal Care courses!

Animal Care

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