RSPCA Hull & East Riding Recognised by Bishop Burton College for Outstanding Contribution to Education for its outstanding contribution to education during the 2024/25 academic year.

The recognition celebrates a powerful partnership between one of the region’s most trusted animal welfare organisations and a leading further education provider. Over the past academic year, RSPCA Hull & East Riding supported 25 animal welfare learners, delivering more than 2,400 hours of meaningful work experience.
“This recognition isn’t just a moment of pride—it reflects the long-term value of experience-led education and collaborative partnerships,” said Fred Owen, CEO of RSPCA Hull & East Riding. “When students engage directly in real-world settings, they build confidence, sharpen their skills, and begin turning knowledge into action.”
At the core of the branch’s placement programme is an immersive, hands-on approach. Students learn within a fully operational animal care environment that uses data- and science-driven methods in shelter management. With guidance from experienced mentors, learners develop a rich and practical understanding of animal welfare careers—while also gaining invaluable insight into the values and ethics that underpin the RSPCA’s work.
“We’re proud to offer placements that are not only practical, but purposeful,” said Owen. “Our goal is to shape the next generation of animal welfare professionals through experience that’s rooted in care, compassion, and scientific best practice.”
This recognition is also a reflection of a growing commitment to collaborative learning models. As education continues to evolve, partnerships like this one provide students with deeper engagement, improved career readiness, and a stronger sense of purpose.
“The strongest learning ecosystems are built through trust and shared values,” said Owen. “We’re grateful to Bishop Burton College for recognising the impact of our partnership, and we look forward to continuing to shape futures—one learner at a time.”
