A group of goats are going all giddy at the prospect of using a brand new climbing structure to help enrich their lives.
The facility – which is situated at Suffolk New College’s Suffolk Rural campus – will be unveiled at an annual college family event called the Big Day Out that takes place on Saturday 13 May 2023.
In addition to the new facility for goats, visitors to the Big Day Out will be able to see other upgrades made in the agricultural and animal departments.
This investment includes new animals, a chicken coop and an outdoor lighting in the equine department so that events can be held there all year round.
The goat structure was erected thanks to the efforts of students who were supported by staff and the company called Team Building With Bite to help create the structure.
Helen Pearson is an animal studies lecturer at Suffolk Rural. Helen said; “The goats will access the facility in the spring. It has been created using sustainable materials. It’s a bit like a goat playground as it gives them lots to do and explore. By working on this, the students were able to gain real-life skills that will help them in the future.”
Ella Scopes, 18, from Ipswich is a level three student who took part in the build. Ella said: “I’m on the level three animal studies zoo pathway and whilst studying on this, you get to learn about lots of different animals. In terms of being involved in the new build, it was a good experience working with others.”
Katie Lister, 19, from Suffolk said; “I think the goats will love this. The plans for animal studies here are very exciting.”
The new facility cost £3,500 and was built thanks to the New Anglia Green Skills project which is funded by the Strategic Development Fund from Department for Education.