Breeding and Genetics
Reaseheath College is recognised as one of the best technical institutions specialising in land-based and associated sectors in the country. Based in Nantwich, Cheshire, the College has an enviable setting amongst 330 hectares of farms, parklands, lake, woodland and sports facilities.
As the regional centre for agricultural education, Reaseheath College has a long-standing reputation throughout the agricultural and farming sector. Particularly reputed for its educational courses including unique bespoke programmes in Dairy Herd Management at Level 3, Foundation Degree, the newly validated BSc Honours degree in Agriculture, Business, Development and Leadership programme. The department works closely with the College dairy farm, formally known as the Genus MOET herd, a high index breeding herd producing top genetics for the Artificial Insemination industry. Students have all year round access to the herd which are all pedigree Holsteins, for on farm practicals and trials work. The Agricultural department and farm works closely with a wide range of organisations and businesses, such as ABS/Genus, Cheshire grassland Society, Veterinary practices and other Artificial Insemination breeding companies, but also importantly local and national farming businesses.
Reaseheath College’s Animal Management Centre is dedicated to education, training, conservation and the welfare of domestic and exotic species. The Centre includes a fully licensed zoo which houses over 125 species of animals, an aquatics and exotics centre, mammal house, laboratories, veterinary care and training facilities. Reaseheath is a member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) and were the first college in the country to be granted a zoo licence – evidence of the College’s high standard of animal welfare and commitment to education and research. As a member of BIAZA, the College supports collections across the UK, liaising with zoos as part of specific breeding programmes.
The College’s dedicated equine department works with a range of industry partners and associates supporting breeders including top class event horse breeding facility Harthill Stud. The department is made up of highly qualified and experienced staff who have extensive specialist knowledge in all aspects of equine science and complementary therapies, including a PhD Veterinary Physiologist, Dr Jan Birch.
For more information please contact annettem@reaseheath.ac.uk