Delilah Fenney – Class of 2026

T Level Animal Management and Behaviour

Delilah Fenney has combined outstanding academic achievement with practical experience, volunteering and youth leadership to build a strong foundation for a future in conservation.

The Course

Delilah completed her T Level in Animal Management and Behaviour with a Distinction, while achieving 100% attendance across both years of her course. She particularly enjoyed being able to move from classroom theory into practical learning around campus and at the zoo.

“Doing activities around campus and on the zoo helped me to understand tricky topics and learn the best practices in animal care, whilst having a lot of fun too.”

Her 315-hour industry placement at Greenacres Animal Park gave her hands-on experience with a wide range of species, from chickens to lemurs, developing her skills in handling, restraint and husbandry.

The Achievement

Alongside her studies, Delilah completed a Level 3 Leadership Qualification through the Chester Zoo Youth Network and continued volunteering with her local RSPB group.

Her leadership work led to an invitation to contribute to a meeting with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, where she shared her views on youth leadership and green skills as part of discussions around the National Youth Strategy.

“Speaking on behalf of younger individuals and making suggestions for positive change meant a lot to me.”

What’s Next

Delilah has secured an unconditional offer to study Wildlife Conservation Biology at the University of Gloucestershire, including opportunities for field trips abroad and practical laboratory and field experience.

Her long-term ambition is to work in wildlife crime and education, particularly across central Europe and Asia.

“Combatting wildlife crime will allow me to make a huge difference in conservation across the world.”