From incredible creatures to real-world animal care, studying at NKC Hadlow College can help you turn an interest in reptiles into practical skills for the future.
For those who love reptiles, there is so much more to discover than scales, shells and slithering tails! International Reptile Awareness Day (21 October) is a great opportunity to celebrate these fascinating animals, highlight the importance of their welfare and explore how a passion for reptiles could lead to an exciting career.
At NKC Hadlow College, students have the opportunity to take that interest beyond the classroom, thanks to the National Centre for Reptile Welfare on-site at the College, the first facility of its kind in the UK. The NCRW operates in partnership with The Pet Charity and the Reptile and Exotic Pet Trade Association (REPTA), providing a haven for unwanted and vulnerable reptiles and amphibians, helping to rehabilitate and rehome animals through a national network.
From geckos and tortoises to larger species such as constrictors and iguanas, the centre cares for a fascinating variety of animals. Specialist facilities include veterinary triage, quarantine and accommodation for a range of reptiles and amphibians.
Learning by doing at NKC Hadlow College
For students, access to specialist facilities like the National Centre for Reptile Welfare offers an opportunity to connect their studies with real-life animal care.
Working alongside experienced professionals, students can gain practical experience in animal husbandry, welfare, rehabilitation and non-invasive behavioural research. These experiences help them develop an understanding of the responsibilities involved in caring for reptiles and amphibians in a professional setting.
Where could a passion for reptiles take you?
The animal care sector offers a variety of potential career paths, including animal welfare, zoo keeping, animal collections, conservation and specialist animal care. While every role has its own requirements, developing practical experience and a strong understanding of animal welfare can help students prepare for future opportunities.
You don't need to have your entire career mapped out before starting college. Sometimes, getting hands-on experience with different animals is exactly what helps you discover what you're passionate about.
Take your next step at NKC Hadlow College
This International Reptile Awareness Day, why not explore how your interest in animals could become something more?
With specialist facilities, practical learning opportunities and access to a diverse range of animals, NKC Hadlow College helps students build the knowledge and experience to take their next steps towards a career in the animal sector.
Discover our Animal Management courses at NKC Hadlow College.