Higher Education Animal Health - Duchy College SC

07/09/2026

Where are they now! Alumni news - Lily Thomas who completed her FdSc Equitation Training and Behaviour at Duchy before completing her BSc (Hons) with RAU is now thriving with the equine industry.

"Studying the FdSc gave me a strong practical and academic foundation, which really helped prepare me for completing my BSc and for working in the equine industry. The hands-on experience, knowledgeable lecturers, and opportunities to visit different sectors of the industry—such as the polo trip—gave me a broader understanding of the many career paths available.

One of the most valuable parts of my time at university was the friendships I made. Those connections provided support throughout my studies and have continued into my professional career.

Today, I work as an Equine Centre Team Member at Redwings Horse Sanctuary, where I help provide the highest standards of care and welfare for rescued horses, ponies, donkeys, and mules. It’s a rewarding role that allows me to make a real difference every day, and I’m grateful that my studies gave me the confidence, skills, and experience to begin my career in the equine industry".

Well done Lily it is great to hear graduate news and that your studies have supported your chosen career path. If you are a former graduate please do get in touch and let us know where you are now.

04/09/2026

MEET THE TEAM!
Ever wondered who’s behind the scenes in HE Animal Health at Duchy College? Today, we’re introducing Kelly, one of our HE Team members.

Kelly delivers on the Animal Health, Equine and Agriculture degree programmes and also facilitates the Equine Business Management at Level 3.
Delivering on the degree programmes gives Kelly the opportunity to support students throughout their university journey. Kelly's favourite areas to teach are related to bovine health and microbiology.
Favourite animal of all time + why?
Manatti – they have a very soothing demeanour - and look very similar to a floating potatoe!
One piece of advice for anyone thinking about studying an Animal Health degree:
Make the most of the networking opportunities that arise during your studies. A strong work ethic can take you a long way! - Curious mind and ensure you fully read the assignment brief!
Something students might not know about me:
Have a secret passion for moomins, English is my fourth language.
You can usually find me:
Under a pile of research papers and attached to a laptop calculating statistics with students or the HE office.
Ask me about:
My area of interests are cows ask me anything especially about calves but be prepared to take a seat it might take a while and bring your wellies as it usually involves cuddles with calves.
Keep an eye on our page as we introduce more of the Animal Management team!

03/09/2026

Just a couple of weeks until we welcome our new and returning FdSc & BSc (Hons) Animal Health students to Duchy. We are very excited for the start of the academic term and have been working hard arranging guest speakers, visits and activities for the forthcoming year. Look out over the next couple of weeks as we introduce you to the HE Team.

26/08/2026

It's National Dog Day - post a photo of your dog that best shows their personality.

14/07/2026

Always great to hear updates from our Alumni, Elliott who graduated from Duchy with a BSc (Hons) Applied Animal Health has been working for almost a year at The Donkey Sanctuary at their Town Barton farm that provides sanctuary to a variety of equids including donkeys, mules and hinnies. Here they specialise in training to shape the behaviour of mules that can sometimes have complex behaviour needs. Elliott is near completion of the behaviour mentor programme and also recently delivered a talk on one of the successful behaviour cases worked on using shaping plans and behaviour work for Donkey Day.

We would love to hear of other alumni news and what you have progressed on to do after completing either your FdSc or BSc (Hons) - get in touch or even better send us a photo and you too can feature on facebook.

Elliott with Mr Mule.

11/07/2026

Not much of a football fan but the boys are ready!!!

18/06/2026

Might be of interest to those living close to Tavistock.

A great opportunity to join our team and family run business.

11/06/2026

Now that you have finished your studies for this academic year, if you are missing studying the below FREE online course may be of interest for you - You're welcome

The Animal Welfare Centre collaborates with Welfare in the development of a free online programme aimed at animal care staff who work in , or wildlife sanctuaries. Available in English, Japanese, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Thai, and Hindi. Find out more and visit the website https://wildwelfare.org/resources-elearn-programme/

26/05/2026

TOP UP YOUR CAREER IN ANIMAL HEALTH

Qualified Vet Nurses: Take the Next Step with Duchy College

Join a team passionate about advancing animal health and welfare through higher education and professional practice.

If you’re a Qualified Veterinary Nurse looking to build on your Foundation Degree, our BSc (Hons) Applied Animal Health Top-Up offers the opportunity to enhance your knowledge, develop your career, and make an even greater impact in the animal sector.

✔ Two days a week attendance
✔ Industry-focused learning
✔ Supportive academic team
✔ Designed for qualified professionals
✔ Study in beautiful Cornwall

Be part of a community invested in improving the future of animal care and welfare.

Interested or want to find out more?

Contact Michelle Chappell
[email protected]

18/05/2026

It's getting towards the end of the academic year and you are in exam week. Good luck in your end of year exams, just do your best and remember to read the questions and breathe. Bestest wishes from us all.