Hayden’s animal management journey

Building confidence and chasing dreams: Hayden’s story

When Hayden was deciding what to do after secondary school, his careers adviser suggested he look at Capel Manor College. The courses on offer aligned perfectly with his interests, and it turned out to be the ideal choice. “I’m currently studying the Animal Care Technical Diploma (Level 2) and I’m really enjoying the course,” Hayden shared. “I love working with animals, and there’s a strong sense of community at the College that’s great to be a part of.” 

Since joining Capel Manor College, Hayden has grown in confidence, not just in his studies, but personally too. “I’ve gained a lot of confidence, especially in terms of talking to people and making friends. I really get on with my tutors and they’re super supportive.” One of Hayden’s proudest moments has been successfully completing his Level 1 course and progressing onto Level 2. “That was a big achievement for me,” he said. “Now I’m aiming to reach Level 3.” 

Hayden also receives additional learning support to help him reach his full potential. “I have an LSA called Sophie who helps me with scribing, as I find it difficult to keep up with making notes in class. This means that when I revise, all the information I need is there. Sophie works well with me, and Capel Manor College staff in general have been very kind and helpful.” 

Looking ahead, Hayden has big ambitions. “Once I’ve completed my course, I want to study zoology at university and eventually work in a zoo.” 

Hayden’s advice for SEND students considering Capel Manor College 

“The support is there to help you build your confidence, and there are plenty of opportunities for personal and academic growth.” 

Where are they now?

After five years studying animal management with us, Cara has continued to thrive in higher education and the animal science sector. 

Following her time at our College she progressed to her first-choice university to study BSc (Hons) Zoo Biology, a course selected to broaden the biology and animal science knowledge she first developed at Capel Manor College. Throughout her degree, Cara explored diverse areas from physiology to animal behaviour, and the fascinating crossover of behavioural physiology. 

As part of her four-year programme, Cara completed an exciting placement year that took her around the world. She spent three months at a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre in Ecuador followed by six months at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna contributing to sector research. 

Returning to the UK for her final year, Cara graduated with first-class honours, as well as several prestigious awards recognising her academic excellence and dedication to student leadership. 

Her success has continued beyond her undergraduate degree. Cara has now been accepted to study an MSc in Clinical Animal Behaviour at one of the UK’s leading institutions in this field. Alongside her postgraduate studies, she is working remotely with her research team in Vienna, conducting data analysis and contributing to multiple scientific publications. 

Cara says that Capel Manor College helped shape the confident, motivated person she is today, supporting her personal development as much as her academic journey. Her long-term dream remains to work in animal behaviour and eventually become a team leader in a canine behavioural team with a charity such as Dogs Trust, RSPCA or Battersea, before moving on to a career in education, inspiring others just as she was inspired.