Askham Bryan College students enhance skills through DogFest 2024 volunteering

Askham Bryan College has forged an exciting partnership with DogFest, providing Animal Management students with invaluable hands-on experience at one of the UK's premier canine events. This collaboration offers students a unique opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in a real-world setting, while simultaneously contributing to the success of this popular dog-centric festival.

DogFest: A Decade of Canine Celebration

Now in its 10th year, DogFest has evolved from a modest gathering of dog enthusiasts to a must-attend event for pet lovers across the United Kingdom. The festival takes place at various picturesque locations throughout the country, including stately homes and expansive gardens, creating a perfect backdrop for canine-focused activities and entertainment.

Student Involvement and Responsibilities

Sixteen Animal Management students from Askham Bryan College have already participated in DogFest events at Burghley House and Tatton Park earlier this year. Their roles as event crew members encompassed a wide range of responsibilities:

• Supporting world-class canine athletes
• Engaging in educational workshops
• Facilitating interactive "have-a-go" activities
• Managing the "Catch the Flag" event
• Taking bookings and judging for the Fun Dog Show
• Leading the Big Dog Walks
• Overseeing Hay Bale Racing
• Staffing the Welcome and Registration Station

This diverse set of tasks has allowed students to develop crucial skills in event management, animal handling, and customer interaction.

Mutual Benefits of the Partnership

The collaboration between Askham Bryan College and DogFest has proven advantageous for both parties:

1. For Students:
   • Gain practical, real-world experience
   • Develop professional skills in a festival environment
   • Enhance their understanding of animal management in action
2. For DogFest:
   • Access to enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteers
   • Fresh perspectives and energy from aspiring professionals
   • Support in running various festival activities

Professional Recognition

The students' efforts have not gone unnoticed. Shirley Lowe, Head of Projects at DogFest, expressed her appreciation:

"We are proud to be supporting young people who will soon be embarking on a career in animal management and we're thrilled that our partnership with Askham Bryan is off to such a great start."

DogFest organisers have praised the students for their professionalism, enthusiasm, and problem-solving abilities, reflecting positively on the quality of education provided by Askham Bryan College.

Educational Impact

Danielle Kilburn, Curriculum Team Leader at Askham Bryan College, highlighted the educational value of this partnership:

"The partnership aligns with Askham Bryan College's mission to prepare students for success in land-based and animal management careers through real-world placements and experiences alongside hands-on teaching in specialist facilities. The students have had an incredible time, and it has really built their confidence alongside their practical skills."

This collaboration exemplifies the college's commitment to providing practical, industry-relevant experiences that complement traditional classroom learning.

Looking Ahead: DogFest at Harewood House

The partnership between Askham Bryan College and DogFest is set to continue with the upcoming event at Harewood House on September 7th-8th, 2024. This presents another opportunity for students to gain valuable experience and for the public to learn more about the college's offerings.

Visitors to the Harewood House event can:

• Interact with Askham Bryan College staff and students
• Learn about the range of college, degree, and apprenticeship courses available
• Experience the excitement of DogFest firsthand

About Askham Bryan College

Askham Bryan College is a leading specialist land-based institution in the North of England, with approximately 3,850 students and apprentices across five campuses. The college offers a diverse range of programmes focused on sustainable food production, environmental conservation, and outdoor activity-based education.

Key facts about Askham Bryan College:

• Offers full and part-time further and higher education programmes
• Specialises in agriculture, animal science, conservation, and more
• Provides apprenticeships with industry partners
• Main campus located near York, with additional sites in Middlesbrough, Saltaire, Gateshead, and Wakefield

For those interested in pursuing a career in animal management or related fields, the partnership between Askham Bryan College and DogFest demonstrates the institution's commitment to providing students with practical, industry-relevant experiences. This collaboration not only enhances the educational journey of students but also contributes to the success of one of the UK's most beloved canine events.