Student scoops award for bringing animals to the silver screen (From Hampshire Chronicle)

Student scoops award for bringing animals to the silver screen

1:05pm Monday 15th August 2011 in Education By Rosie Parry

A LOCAL student has been named Innovator of the Year in 2011.

Sparsholt College student Hannah Francombe, scooped the award after successfully completing the Level 3 NVQ in Animal Training in the Audio Visual Industries Diploma.

She was nominated by lecturers for the City & Guilds’ Medals of Excellence and Lion Award, following an operation on both wrists that left Hannah unable to continue her previous job of handling animals.

The NVQ has enabled her to take another route in the animal audiovisual industry, and whilst studying, she has worked for Amazing Animals – the UK’s foremost supplier of trained animals for TV, advertising and photography.

Hannah has worked on several productions including Paramount Pictures’ Stardust a film featuring Robert De Niro, and is now part of the application, review and induction of new staff employment.

She said: “I am living my dream every day, having that one-to-one relationship with animals and getting to work with them on a daily basis is amazing.”

She added: “For anyone looking to do a vocational course just go for it. The course allows you to gain an understanding and knowledge that you couldn’t otherwise get.”

The City & Guilds’ Medals for Excellence has been running for more than 100 years and recognizes the achievements of people who produce exceptional work or go beyond what is expected of them.

Hannah received her medal from the Duke of Edinburgh.

For further information on the courses offered at the college visit www.Sparsholt.ac.uk or call 01962 776441.