Derby College Group inspires future talent at land-based industry insights event

Derby College Group (DCG) has welcomed employers, students, and industry professionals to its third Land-Based Industry Insights event, held at the Broomfield Hall campus, showcasing the wide range of opportunities available across the land-based, equine, and animal care sectors.

The event brought education and industry together through a lively Q&A panel and a marketplace style networking session, giving students the opportunity to speak directly with employers, ask questions, and gain valuable insight into future career pathways.

Students were able to explore the realities of working within the sector, understand current industry challenges, and build meaningful connections that will support their progression into employment. Events such as this continue to play a vital role in bridging the gap between education and industry, ensuring learners are equipped with both the knowledge and confidence to succeed.

Samantha Smith, Head of Animal Services at Derby College Group, said: “Events like this are incredibly important in helping our students understand the breadth of opportunities available to them. Bringing employers onto campus allows our learners to have real conversations, gain honest insight, and start building those all important connections that will support them as they move into the industry.”

Jess Parkes, Student Engagement Officer at The College of Animal Welfare, said: “It was fantastic to engage with such enthusiastic and motivated students at Derby College Group.

“Events like this are so valuable in helping learners explore the wide range of opportunities available within the animal care sector, while also giving them the confidence and knowledge to take their next steps into the industry.”

Current student Connie Atkinson Gregory, aged 17 and studying the Advanced Technical Diploma in Animal Care Level 3, who was recently awarded Animal Student of the Term, also shared her experience: “I love how the college gives you a really good foundation to go into the animal care industry. Events like this help you understand what is out there and what you can achieve.”

Derby College Group continues to deliver industry focused education across its four campuses, Roundhouse, Joseph Wright, Broomfield, and Ilkeston, offering A Levels, Apprenticeships, T Levels, vocational courses, and higher education pathways designed to prepare students for successful futures.

For more information on Animal Care courses at Derby College Group, visit this link.