Cirencester College

Zoo Fab recently completed a diverse suite of new enclosures and animal management facilities for Cirencester College, creating a modern and engaging learning environment tailored to a wide range of terrestrial, arboreal, and aquatic species. This multi-exhibit project was designed to enhance welfare standards, expand practical teaching opportunities, and deliver a professional zoo-quality experience within an educational setting.

The development includes a spacious terrestrial enclosure inspired by natural meerkat habitats, providing students with a clear example of how behavioural needs can be met through thoughtful design. The exhibit features varied terrain, dedicated lookout zones, and naturalistic theming that emulate semi-arid environments while ensuring robustness for daily teaching use.

Adjacent to this, we constructed two purpose-built aviaries positioned over a pond system, designed specifically for terrapins and other aquatic or semi-aquatic species. These aviaries combine safe, predator-resistant netting with durable timber and steel frameworks, while the waterbody itself has been shaped to allow natural basking, swimming, and feeding behaviours. Elevated perches and planting further enrich the space and showcase mixed-species design possibilities for students.

A large arboreal mammal enclosure forms another major component of the project. This build emphasises vertical space, canopy pathways, and complex climbing structures—allowing learners to study husbandry principles for tree-dwelling species in a fully immersive, three-dimensional environment. Durable artificial rockwork, natural timber, and extensive foliage help create a cohesive, naturalistic setting.

To support the growing collection, we also designed and installed dedicated quarantine facilities. These provide safe, hygienic, and easily managed holding spaces for new or off-show animals, ensuring that the college maintains high welfare and biosecurity standards.

The project concludes with the construction of a compact but versatile primate enclosure. Built with a strong focus on visibility, environmental control, and behavioural enrichment, this space gives students the opportunity to work closely with small primate species within a professionally designed, zoo-standard environment.

Across all of these new exhibits, consistent theming, high-quality materials, and species-appropriate heating, lighting, and enrichment systems have produced a cohesive and visually striking facility. Cirencester College now benefits from a series of modern, functional habitats that offer exceptional educational value while meeting contemporary welfare expectations.