South Staffordshire College hosts annual animal care dog show

South Staffordshire College recently presented the annual animal care fun dog show at its Rodbaston Campus.

The event has been running for a number of years, enabling students of the routes to animal care course to showcase a canine display for their fellow students, staff, family and friends.

This year 22 learners took part in a range of activities with their dogs, including team obedience to music, individual agility and a demonstration of the Bronze Award criteria, comprising a set routine to show canine control and a series of specific movements.

The special Jack Award trophy was presented to Tom Rowley who has worked hard throughout training as well as during the show, alongside the dog he used for the show – Barney.

The animal care fun dog show is part of a supported learning programme for those who require both academic and social support.

They train for weeks as part of their life skills development, which includes abilities such as organisation, teamwork, confidence building, co-ordination, sequencing and ability to follow instructions.

South Staffordshire College's progression coaches Judy Kidson and Sue Cripps commented that the show was a great success for learners.

Sue said: "They have all achieved skills developed through commitment and concentration throughout their study and have thoroughly enjoyed taking part."

Keith Ellis, assistant head of faculty land-based, was on this year's judging panel and declared himself very impressed with the students and the professionalism they displayed.

"The results achieved by the students are testament to the determination and hard work they have put in throughout the year.

"These competitions give students confidence and their certificates are something they can proudly put in their portfolio of achievements to show all future employers."