Life at Merrist Wood College

Claire Brown completed her BTEC and National Diploma in Animal Care at Merrist Wood College in 2003.  

Claire then went on to study Animal Management and Welfare at the University of Lincoln, and now works as a Cat Welfare Manager at UK charity Cats Protection. 

“I loved college. Getting to mix practical skills, as well as academic skills, really helped develop my passion for animal welfare,” she said. 

“I made so many friends, who I am still in touch with today, and had some of my best years there.” 

College highlights

Claire shared her favourite memories from her time as a student at Merrist Wood College. 

“I loved getting to work in the farm, carrying out daily husbandry activities and being involved in breeding programmes,” she said. 

“My biggest highlight was when our goat had kids and we got to weigh them daily and be involved in their care.” 

Life after college

Since leaving college, Claire has climbed her way up the career ladder, and is now a manager at her company, covering South England and Wales. 

“I am one of two Cat Welfare Managers leading a team of ten Cat Welfare Advisors across the country, supporting our network of volunteer fosterers and cat welfare volunteers,” Claire said. 

“My role is to lead the assessment of local practice against policy, to support improvement and share best practice. 

“I line manage five Cat Welfare Advisors providing cat welfare advice and support to volunteer branches, particularly volunteer fosterers, and undertaking welfare support visits to fosterers and external sites used by Cats Protection.” 

Claire is also an assessor for the ADCH, the Association of Dogs and Cats Homes, using her skills and knowledge to support other charities to become members of the organisation. 

Following your passion

Claire has always been an animal enthusiast. She shared some insight on how she followed her dream and got to where she is today. 

“I’ve loved animals for as long as I can remember and have always wanted to be able to make a difference in some way,” she said. 

“I suffer with essential tremor, which affects my hand mobility massively. I always wanted to be a vet, but I knew it would be hard with shaky hands. I started looking into other roles with animals, and came across a role at Cats Protection, which I joined in 2008. 

“Later on, I applied for my current role, as being able to improve and maintain the welfare of cats is a real passion of mine and I knew the role would be perfect. I also love working with and meeting the wonderful volunteers we get to support daily.” 

Advice for college students

Claire has some words of wisdom to share with college leavers looking to follow a similar path. 

“Don’t be afraid to work hard and get as much experience as you can in the field you are interested in. 

“Work your way up, take in all the advice and continue to learn as animal welfare changes so fast.”