Blackburn College Brings Animal Care Studies Back to Witton Country Park

Blackburn College has announced an exciting development for learners in the region: the return and expansion of its animal care study programs, now based at the scenic Witton Country Park. This move, made possible through a collaboration with Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, represents a significant enhancement of educational and career opportunities for students interested in animal welfare and management.

According to Blackburn College, this initiative positions them as the primary provider of animal care qualifications in the local area, offering a comprehensive range of programs from Entry Level through to Level 3. This structured progression aims to provide students with clear pathways into further study and diverse careers within the animal industry, right within their community.

A Collaborative Vision for Local Learners

The re-establishment of animal care courses at Witton Country Park is a testament to strong local partnerships. Dr. Fazal Dad CBE, Principal and Chief Executive of Blackburn College, highlighted the collaborative effort, stating that the project demonstrates what can be achieved when the College and Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council work together. He emphasized that making animal care education accessible to passionate learners has always been a priority.

This partnership means that local students will no longer need to travel outside the area to pursue their interest in animal care, receiving support and training directly in Blackburn. Councillor Quesir, Deputy Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, echoed this sentiment, expressing delight in supporting the College's expansion. He noted that the council's strong partnerships consistently deliver positive impacts for borough residents, and their teams have worked diligently to upgrade the facility for this purpose.

For students, this means a more convenient and integrated learning experience. Parents and teachers can appreciate the benefit of having high-quality vocational training available locally, reducing travel burdens and fostering a stronger sense of community engagement in education. Students can also leverage free learning tools like COSMIQ, a voice-driven AI tutor, to support their studies across subjects, ensuring they have robust academic foundations as they pursue their vocational passions.

Enhancing Practical Skills and Career Prospects

The new Animal Care courses are designed to equip students with both practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for success in the animal industry. According to Blackburn College, the curriculum will cover vital areas such as animal nutrition, health, and behaviour, alongside hands-on experience. This blend of practical application and academic rigor is crucial for preparing students for the demands of various animal-related professions.

Rachel Tarplee, Vice Principal – Curriculum and Quality at Blackburn College, underscored the importance of this expansion. She described animal care as a vital area of interest for many learners and affirmed the College's determination to retain these courses within the local area. By expanding the provision at Witton Park, the College aims to future-proof opportunities for students and strengthen its role as an institution that actively responds to community needs.

The Witton Park site itself is described as offering an exciting prospect for learners, staff, and the wider community. The significant investment from the College and the Council will transform the site into a vibrant, immersive learning environment once again. This environment will not only facilitate learning but also provide students with a unique, real-world setting to apply their skills, which is invaluable for vocational training. For those looking to deepen their understanding of specific subjects or prepare for future academic steps, COSMIQ also offers a free practice hub by grade and subject, making it easy to reinforce learning outside the classroom.

A New Chapter for Blackburn College and the Community

With enrolment already available through Blackburn College and courses launching in September 2026, this new venture marks an important milestone for the institution. It signifies Blackburn College's ongoing commitment to providing relevant, high-quality education that directly addresses local demand and offers tangible career pathways for its students.

The return of animal care studies to Witton Country Park is more than just an expansion of courses; it is a celebration of community spirit, strategic partnership, and a shared vision for educational excellence. It creates new opportunities for young people and adults alike to pursue their passions, develop valuable skills, and contribute to a vital industry, all within the heart of Blackburn.