Reaseheath College’s new animal management centre has been given top marks by the head of one of the government’s funding agencies.

Peter Lauener, chief executive of the Education Funding Agency (EFA), officially opened the Nantwich college’s teaching centre.

The EFA is responsible for the education of all children and pupils in England’s schools, colleges and independent providers.

With an annual budget of £50 billion, it took over the responsibilities of the Young People’s Learning Agency on April 2.

Speaking to staff and students, Mr Lauener said: “It has been a great privilege to see this wonderful centre.

“It is, without doubt, the best animal management facility for Further Education in the country and is quite outstanding.

“The staff are very knowledgeable and know the importance of learning which links directly into industry and then to jobs. This makes Reaseheath a good place for study at all levels.

“On top of that, it’s obvious students really like learning here, and this enables them to reach their potential, get meaningful jobs and play a full part in society.”

Reaseheath College has invested £5 million into the centre, designed to integrate students with the animals they are studying.

It has 42 specialist staff, over 1,000 resident animals and is equipped with cutting edge, industry standard, facilities including a zoo, laboratories and a veterinary nursing room.

College Principal Meredydd David said: “We were thrilled that he acknowledged our expertise and our strong links with industry, both of which enable us to deliver relevant, top class, education and training to students.”

(Pic: Peter Lauener watches as Ernie the tapir gets a banana from Deputy Centre Manager Amy Dunbar)

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