STUDENTS in Kidderminster can now take up a new course in animal care - after it was proved the idea had legs.

More than 60 people turned up at the Discovery Centre at West Midland Safari Park in Bewdley to find out about the project.

It will be offered jointly by the attraction and The Academy college at Kidderminster.

The students who take it up will be based for one day a week at The Academy and two days at the safari park.

Rod Jones, faculty director for land-based provision at Birmingham Metropolitan College, which runs The Academy said: “This is a unique partnership locally, which will see staff at the safari park offering hands-on animal care and welfare advice as well as real-life experience in a working environment.

"The course is fully accredited by City and Guilds and will prepare students for future careers in the animal care industry.”

Caroline Richards, head of learning at the safari park, said: “With over 70 animals and 19 different species in the learning department alone, as well as an experienced learning team, we already teach 15,000 pupils a year through our current programmes.

"This partnership will offer insights into animal science, biology, housing and behaviour as well as focusing on both theory and practical through written assessments and practical observations.”

The Academy is offering Animal Care Diploma Level 2, with the potential for progression to Level 3 in the future.