From September, Calderdale College will offer the BTEC first diploma in animal care for the first time.

Catherine Willoughby, formerly a degree-level lecturer in animal management at Grimsby College, has been headhunted to teach the subject at Calderdale College by Sid Jenkins, former superintendent of the RSPCA, who has already established successful courses at Leeds, Sheffield and Luton Colleges and has lent his expertise to Calderdale College.

Mr Jenkins took part in Animal Squad, the first fly-on-the wall animal programme for BBC TV in 1986, and has written several books on animal welfare.

"The skills gained on this course could enable learners to seek work in veterinary surgeries, zoos, safari parks, pet shops, kennels, catteries, stables and animal rescue centres," said Ms Willoughby.

"Students could also work for charitable organisations such as Guide Dogs for the Blind, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People or the RSPCA."

The course will teach students how to care for companion and exotic animals and offer hands-on experience at the Ponderosa Centre in Heckmondwike, which has a large collection of rare breed animals as well as cattle and livestock, reptiles, birds and pets.

The one-year course leads to a two-year national diploma in animal care, the equivalent of three A-levels.

"Some learners may want to progress to further study at degree level and there are instances where people following this route have gone all the way to becoming a fully qualified vet.

"They've been championed by the Vetnet Lifelong Learning Network which was established to increase opportunities for vocational learners. This is a great new opportunity for people in Calderdale and I'm delighted to be involved," said Ms Willoughby.