Studying snakes, looking at lemurs and researching reindeer are now all part of the hands-on experience at Folly Farm for animal care students.

Through a new vocational support programme, the Pembrokeshire College students can attend lectures by the Folly Farm’s zoo keepers, access an on-site classroom and benefit from work placements and live case studies.

Folly Farm has also taken up the sponsorship of the animal care student of the year award.

“We are committed to providing experiences that educate as well as entertain, so we are delighted to have forged these links with Pembrokeshire College,” said Folly Farm’s zoo manager Tim Morphew.

“We are especially pleased the college has chosen to work with Folly Farm to demonstrate best practice in animal health, behaviour and accommodation, among other topics.”

Two-week work placements will be offered to the students who perform best at a formal interview with Tim.

The link has been welcomed by Robert Palmer, of Pembrokeshire College’s animal care department.

He said: “It will enable our students to study, research and observe closely a wide variety of animals, including some very unusual and endangered species.

“Having our own on-site classroom will be invaluable in helping us deliver the best vocational experience we can to students on a range of courses, from entry and national diploma level to University of Glamorgan HNC and HND courses.”

To find out more about animal care courses at Pembrokeshire College, go to www.pembs.ac.uk/ landbased or attend the open day on November 12th.