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College Brings Endangered Species to Life in New Reptile Room
Posted: 13/05/2025
We’ve opened an exciting new Reptile Room at our Wigfield Farm campus as part of a major investment in our Animal Management facilities. This state-of-the-art space gives our students real hands-on experience with a wide variety of exotic species, helping them develop the practical skills they need for a successful career in animal care.
Inside the Reptile Room, we’ve created custom-built vivariums that are carefully tailored to meet the needs of each animal. Our Animal Care and Management T Level students now have the chance to work directly with species usually only seen in specialist reptile centres, making learning even more engaging and meaningful.
One of the stars of the new room is Mr Bumps, our rare rhino iguana. He’s part of an endangered species with fewer than 2,500 mature individuals left in the wild, and having him here gives us a unique opportunity to explore conservation in action.
Our students will also care for a panther chameleon, frilled dragon, thick-tailed gecko, emerald tree monitor, a scorpion and many more — all adding to the incredible hands-on learning experience we offer.
This new facility is just one of the ways we’re making sure our students are equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and practical experience to thrive in the animal care industry.
Peter Wood, Head of Department for Animal Management at Barnsley College, said: “The enhanced Reptile Room is a significant upgrade to our Animal Management programme; it provides our students with even greater opportunities to work closely with a diverse range of exotic species, offering hands-on experience that goes beyond traditional classroom learning.
“This facility not only supports their learning but also equips them with the practical skills needed to thrive in a competitive industry, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future careers in animal care.”
Photos of our new Reptile Room
This page was last updated on: 13th May 2025 11:02am
