STUDENTS succeed in a revolutionary new veterinary complex despite the coronavirus lockdown.
Former Coleg Cambria Llysfasi students Jennifer Bamber and Megan Roberts are among the first cohorts of Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery at Harper and Keele Veterinary School, a pioneering partnership launched last year by Harper Adams and Keele Universities has been.
Ex-students of Ysgol Brynhyfryd in Ruthin have been forced to enjoy the comforts of home rather than campus life due to the ongoing pandemic.
The couple, who both gained vital work experience in local veterinary practices, can’t wait for the restrictions to wear off to return to hands-on workshops and lectures.
22-year-old Jennifer from Cyffylliog is now back on site in Keele, Staffordshire, where a building is being built to include teaching facilities, a clinical skills center and a veterinary school center due to open in 2022.
She said, “When we arrived we settled in and were sure to have hands-on sessions and lectures, but all learning has been online since December.
“The lecturers supported us a lot and since the last few months of our time at Llysfasi were also affected by coronavirus, we were prepared for it.
“There is no substitute for working in the fresh air and dealing with the animals, but we all stay positive and learn a lot.”
19-year-old Megan is from Llanbedr DC and grew up on a sheep and cattle farm.
She added, “We do a lot of things and get real, real-time scenarios that are challenging but good preparation for our future careers.
“When we’re there, we’re in ‘bubbles’ with other vets. So that was an icebreaker and it certainly helps to connect.”
Jennifer and Megan learned the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management at Llysfasi from Ruthin and said it was an excellent foundation for higher education.
They cover topics in the fields of agriculture, anatomy and physiology, dissection, animal management, dealing with health and production and will complete their studies with Harper and Keele in 2025.
Elin Roberts, site manager and assistant director of engineering studies at Coleg Cambria Llysfasi, praised Jennifer and Megan for their determination.
“Visiting the university during the coronavirus pandemic, especially for freshmen, was a real test of their strength and resilience,” she said.
“We are very proud of the progress and positive attitude that Jennifer and Megan have shown since joining Harper and Keele, and we know they will continue to have successful careers in the veterinary industry.”
In addition to the new construction in Keele, the Veterinary Training Center in Harper Adams, Shropshire is now complete and will be used for lectures and clinical skills training when students are back on campus.
For more information on Coleg Cambria’s numerous courses, please visit the website: www.cambria.ac.uk
