Local animal care training provider receives business boost from Theo Paphitis
A Halesowen-based business has received a significant boost from retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis. Last week, Vanessa Woollatt, owner of the animal care training provider Critters Academy, was selected by Theo for his ‘Small Business Sunday’ award.
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Vanessa said: “We only officially launched at the start of 2025. It’s great to have support from Theo, who has recognised our hard work and helped spread the word about what we do to his following.”
Critters Academy is a new business with a big mission: to inspire animal care excellence through expert training. After 14 years of educating in the animal care sector and nine years working in qualification development for national awarding bodies, Vanessa decided to launch her own small training provider. Her ethos is to offer accessible and affordable qualifications with personal 1:1 support from expert tutors.
Critters Academy aims to help aspiring animal care professionals gain the skills and qualifications they need to thrive. The business offers accredited, Ofqual-regulated courses.
“Animal welfare is not just my job – it’s my passion. I want to help people become the best possible caregivers to animals. I’ve seen first-hand how transformative education can be in improving the lives of animals, and I’m committed to making this accessible to all who share this passion,” Vanessa added.
Vanessa will be delivering Critters Academy's first face-to-face Canine First Aid course on Saturday, 26 April, at St. Kenelm's Church Hall. Anyone interested in participating should contact her at info@crittersacademy.co.uk or visit crittersacademy.com.
