New Reptile Room at Barnsley College

Barnsley College has unveiled a state-of-the-art, custom-designed Reptile Room as part of a significant investment in the enhancement of its Animal Management department.

This exciting development provides T Level students with access to industry-standard facilities, offering real-world, hands-on experience that enhances learning and prepares them for careers in animal care.

The new facility at the College’s Wigfield Farm campus, Barnsley, features custom-built vivariums, each meticulously tailored to the needs of its inhabitants. The room is now home to a diverse range of exotic species, offering students direct access to animals typically seen only in specialist reptile providers.

Barnsley College student in the new reptile room

Animal additions to Barnsley College reptile room

A highlight of the room is its newest resident, Mr Bumps, a rare rhino iguana who belongs to an endangered species, with fewer than 2,500 mature individuals remaining in the wild. His arrival at Barnsley College presents a unique opportunity for students to gain valuable experience working with an animal of significant conservation importance.

Mr Bumps, a rare rhino iguana at Barnsley College

Other additions to the department include a panther chameleon, frilled dragon, thick-tailed gecko, emerald tree monitor, and a scorpion—broadening the practical learning opportunities available to the Barnsley College Animal Management students.

This development further strengthens the College’s reputation for delivering high-quality, hands-on animal care education, ensuring students are equipped with the practical skills and knowledge needed to excel in the animal care industry.

Peter Wood, Head of Department for Landbased Industries at Barnsley College, said: “The enhanced Reptile Room is a significant upgrade to our Animal Management programme; it provides our students with even greater opportunities to work closely with a diverse range of exotic species, offering hands-on experience that goes beyond traditional classroom learning.

“This facility not only supports their learning but also equips them with the practical skills needed to thrive in a competitive industry, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future careers in animal care.”