Animal degree students explore the Netherlands

As a disabled student it was fantastic to have the opportunity to travel overseas to see some of the Netherland’s amazing zoos. Burgers’ Zoo in particular was a fascinating insight into habitat design. Being able to also see Utrecht University’s veterinary hospital was interesting, and I learned that this could be somewhere I study for my masters if I go down that route.” Rebecca Pitts

Coleg Sir Gâr degree students who are studying animal related programmes have recently visited the Netherlands in an educational exploration.

Students on the college’s animal science and animal behaviour and welfare degree programmes, had a busy schedule which included visiting the Artis Groote Museum and residents at Artis Zoo which include Asian elephants and red ruffed lemurs.

They also toured Burgers’ Zoo in Arnhem, where large scale natural habitats are recreated and research is conducted that promotes the protection of species in the wild. 

Utrecht University was another scheduled stop with a talk on animal behaviour and cognition and a faculty tour of its veterinary hospital. 

Student Matt Grimwood said: “This was a great opportunity and really insightful to see how enclosure design and animal welfare differ in the Netherlands compared to the UK. I also personally really enjoyed the tour of the veterinary university campus, especially their specimen collection in the library which was incredible.”

Rebecca Pitts said: “As a disabled student it was fantastic to have the opportunity to travel overseas to see some of the Netherland’s amazing zoos. Burgers’ Zoo in particular was a fascinating insight into habitat design. Being able to also see Utrecht University’s veterinary hospital was interesting, and I learned that this could be somewhere I study for my masters if I go down that route. Overall, the trip was both fun and inspiring. I really got to know some of my peers better and our lecturers Anna and Stephanie took such good care of us whilst we were away. Thank you to them and to Taith for giving us the opportunity to go.”

Meghan Thomas said: “It was amazing to be able to have the opportunity to visit so many different places to really get a clear picture of how different animal welfare is in the Netherlands. Along with gaining knowledge from the trip, I felt I also got to know fellow students and staff a lot more and that created the best atmosphere for travelling and the overall experience.”

Amanda Price added: “Such a privilege to have had the opportunity to travel with a fabulous group of people and explore the education and zoo experience within the Netherlands. I loved Burgers’ zoo ecosystem layout and the dedication and enthusiasm the tour guide had for the welfare of the animals was fantastic. Utrecht University, with fantastic research opportunities, and the outstanding facilities at the university animal hospital, were a particular highlight. Thank you to lecturers Anna and Steph for making it possible and to Taith for funding.”

Following the trip, the students, who study at Pibwrlwyd campus, made their way back to the UK, travelling from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

The trip was funded by Taith, the Welsh Government’s international learning exchange programme.