Capel Manor College Apprentices Shine at the 2024 Land-Based and Environment Learner Awards
Capel Manor College is thrilled to announce the outstanding achievements of its apprentices at the 2024 Land-Based and Environment Learner (LBEL) Awards, held on November 21 at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham.
This prestigious event, organized by Lantra and Landex, celebrates excellence in sectors such as agriculture, animal care, horticulture, and forestry.
The calibre of students this year was exceptional, with a 95% achievement rate for our Level 3 Keeper and Aquarist apprenticeship. We put forward 15+ apprentices into a variety of LBEL categories and the competition was fierce. This year the LBEL awards saw 196 nominations, and we are thrilled to announce that three Capel Manor apprentices were recognised for their exceptional contributions:
- Madelaine Dunlop, Level 3 Keeper and Aquarist Apprentice at ZSL (Zoological Society of London) Whipsnade Zoo, was awarded Animal Care and Management Apprentice of the Year. Her research on reducing stress in deer through light colours has already influenced better animal care practices. Reflecting on her win, Madelaine said:
“To be chosen from 196 nominees is an honour. I love being a zookeeper, and this award is the cherry on top. I couldn’t have achieved this without the support of my tutor [at Capel Manor College] and the amazing team at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo.” - Jennifer Crouchman, an apprentice at Colchester Zoo, was named a finalist for her exceptional academic performance and peer mentoring, having gone above and beyond to offer invaluable support to other apprentices throughout their courses.
- Dayna Gordon, an apprentice at Woburn Safari Park, was shortlisted for her dedication and excellence in both assignments and exams. Dayna is also a member of the “Team Building with Bite” initiative, contributing to the creation of new enrichment for zoos across the country.
Capel Manor College is proud of the dedication, hard work and passion demonstrated by its apprentices and is committed to nurturing the next generation of land-based and environmental professionals.
Delivered in partnership with ZSL, this Level 3 Keeper and Aquarist apprenticeship equips students with the skills, knowledge and experience to excel in a dynamic and rewarding career in animal care and conservation. For more information about Capel Manor College’s apprenticeship programmes, please visit capel.ac.uk/apprenticeships/.
