A PURPOSE built academy designed to transform educational facilities at West Midland Safari Park is nearing completion after just four months.

The Shuttle was given a sneak preview of the £1million facility which features five classrooms, a student break room, staff area and meeting rooms.

The purpose built eco-friendly facility is replacing the current classroom and three temporary rooms where curriculum based subjects are taught.

It is built on stilts – to minimise impact on the ground – and situated next to the Hippo Lakes and adjacent to the theme park.

Building work started after Christmas and the whole building is expected to be complete in the summer.

Kidderminster Shuttle:

Bosses said they wanted to grow the educational offer of the Safari Park and enhance courses offered, which include NVQs in animal care for 16-18s, school visits and learning for nursery children.

Caroline Richards, head of learning, said: "We have built a fantastic team of educators over the years, who are dedicated to providing wildlife education to visiting schools and colleges, as well as delivering accredited animal qualifications.

"I am thrilled that we are able to expand our support for wildlife education in the West Midlands with our brand new, purpose built Safari Academy."

She added: "This new state-of-the-art eco-building will allow us to grow our educational services to meet the needs of the local community and inspire even more young conservationists of the future.

"Not only will we be able to offer hands-on classes and courses, we will also be offering additional holiday clubs, evening talks and conservation events.

"We look forward to welcoming guests to the Safari Academy throughout the summer months."

For more information, visit safariacademy.co.uk or contact the learning team on 01299 404888 or email learning@wmsp.co.uk

Kidderminster Shuttle: