BCA is a college that offers Animal Management courses with impressive facilities and an on-site zoo that can be visited during open days. The staff are respectful and helpful, creating a favorable learning environment for students. Though the drive to the college may not be pleasant, the teachers create a great atmosphere for learning. During open evenings, prospective students have the opportunity to tour the zoo alongside other facilities provided by BCA. Additionally, free sanitary products in girls' toilets show care towards their students' needs.
Very nice ambience, great staff and teachers. And it was wonderful to get a tour of the zoo during the open evening yesterday for college admissions
Sandeep M — Google review
Very good protective services courses here, you can do from Level 1 Diploma and up to Level 3 Extended Diploma. Would highly recommend.
Henry Bell — Google review
This establishment overlooks basic animal rights and proper conduct. I've seen one of the members of the centre repeatedly shout, kick and punch a horse (white with brown patched). Lady drives a red mercedes. Absolutely appalling and action needs to be taken. RSPCA informed
Emily Wilson — Google review
needs a bit of work tbh , the shops are literally sweet dispensers.
Fin — Google review
My son started a farming apprenticeship, which uses this college. He has been down to register several months ago and was told they would come out and assess him every six weeks or so. Or he would be told to attend the campus every so often. After waiting and many emails and calls, still nobody can be bothered to visit or contact him.. Poor organisation and education standards.
Andrew Liddell — Google review
I attend this college, it's got respectful staff and they help out a lot. The drive in isn't very nice however and their prices at the shops are a bit high but overall a good college.
smoll pika — Google review
Having come back to BCA after six years was very strange at first. However, as I settled in, it seemed like I had come back home. Undertaking the level 2 horticulture course was great fun and a hell of a ride, all thanks to Graham Talbot's professionalism, great teaching and sense of humour. Would I come back once more? My answer is that I would be back in a heartbeat. This isn't goodbye forever, this is just goodbye for now and if the time is right I'm sure I'll see you all in the future.
Ummer Ali — Google review
This college might not be the best choice if you're dealing with mental health issues, much like my own experience. I vividly recall attending this institution around two years ago and unfortunately, my struggles with mental health were completely overlooked and neglected. It was disheartening to see how they labeled me as a failure solely due to my severe mental health challenges. This judgment came despite the fact that I was excelling academically and my results were impressive. The irony in this situation is truly baffling.
What made matters worse was the complete absence of support for individuals like me. Instead of offering guidance or assistance, the attitude seemed to be "just tough it out and move on." The college's remote location only exacerbated the situation, as the lack of reliable service made it nearly impossible to reach out to family when needed. The teaching staff's lack of empathy and concern for students' well-being was quite disheartening. The overall attitude of the staff left much to be desired.
It's particularly disheartening for someone with a genuine passion, such as my love for animals. The college's inability to provide proper support and create a nurturing environment is truly disappointing. To sum it up, my experience with this college was nothing short of heartbreaking, and it's unfortunate that a place meant for education and growth can fall so short in terms of understanding and support. Do not recommend at all.
tasha bites — Google review
Very kind and friendly staff, the college gives off the same positive family vibes as my secondary school. I love it
Alex — Google review
I went to this place from 2016-2020 to study Art direction & then Film
Initially I was really excited to attend the college, because of the beautiful arctecture & grounds
It actually turned out to be the worst experience of my life & nearly destroyed my 15+ year love of film altogether.
The "tutors" are cruel, stupid, small minded, sadistic lunatics who love to play god & evidently have favourites & those who they ridicule or single out for absoutley no reason whatsoever, I happened to be one of those & was picked on virtually every day, ironically because I embraced genuine, unadulterated creativity & refused to follow by their uncreative, conformist examples. Oh & they literally laughed at the fact I often had to take care of my severely autistic brother which is something I'd been doing since I was about 10 or 11, which meant I missed out on a lot of expeiences growing up that other kids took for granted but of course they couldn't care less about that!!! If anything it was another thing they could make fun of
Despite my problems at home & mental abuse I got in classroom. I happened to be one of about 4 or 5 students in a class of 18 who actually worked during lessons & got reasonably great grades which seemed to infuriate the "tutors" as I got further through the course, because they were clearly threatened by anyone freethinking or fought back against thier blantant bullying.
This didnt help my self-esteem though & if the pandemic hadn't automatically ended the course 3 months early. Idve taken every DVD & film resource I owned, thrown in the trash & quit film altogether
I've since however gotten help & created a support unit which has helped reinfigurate my love of filmmaking & continued my path towards a major career.
One thing I do have to praise are the agency staff who despite being clueless were incredibly supportive & actually quite easy to talk to
But that really, really isn't saying much
All in all, if you want to study film or probably any course other than animal management I'd strongly suggest for your own wellbeing looking elsewhere
Cal Roberts — Google review
I think it is a great place for students as I observed but for applicants applying for jobs or staff around SEN/ inclusion department, I am not so sure. I applied to work here on two occasions. First I had to prepare a lecture in a hall. Noone told me a whole bunch of people would come and listen to it. In summary the school made the applicants give lectures so the school did not have to pay for someone to do it. I was asked for my fob to put my presentation on a big screen but I refused. Used only my notes. Why would I give them my hard work for free. I read 4 books to do this presentation. Cheeky.
The second occasion was upstairs. I honestly believe that is how they tested applicants for fitness which is not inclusive now, is it? Every year the school is looking for someone for the same post. Well, I remember my interviewers: the head of inclusion who said her job was to talk to parents. Really? Surely staff who works with students would be better for this task. And there was a young man who did what she told her. The same boring setup in every place I work as a Specialist tutor. There is always One who had been in her role for a long time and got 'too big', too entitled, too comfortable in her position. Noone is challenging them.
In my humble opinion if you do not want to look for another job in a year's time then do not apply.
Aniko K. — Google review
My daughter is loving the Animal Management course at the BCA and I have always enjoyed the open days, especially seeing the on site zoo.
Great facilities and I was really impressed with the free sanitary products in the girls toilets.
Miss Cazzy Bee — Google review
If your thinking of sending your child to bca for art and design please re consider I was a student there a few years ago and was treated awfully, the art department teachers definitely have favourites and pick on others and definitely do not think of students futures, I was bullied by a art teacher who is still employed there, i do not recommend the art department at this college
Norden Farm Centre for the Arts is a community venue that offers arts workshops and performances. It features an on-site cafe and bar located in a barn, making it a unique destination. Despite the challenges of Covid-19, visitors have found the atmosphere to be welcoming and enjoyable. The theatre is exceptional for live performances, as demonstrated by the positive feedback from performers who appreciate Norden Farm's superb hosting capabilities. Visitors can enjoy affordable meals at the cafe before shows or during breaks.
D E L I G H T F U L
I had the pleasure of watching this LOVELY show this morning. I really enjoyed it as did all of the school kids. I thought it was a wonderful story for children and even elders I know would thoroughly enjoy this. It was called One Snowy Night. The performers were all so incredibly talented. Truly wonderful. The entire production was done impressively. The staff at Norden Farm were also attentive and helpful. Highly recommended this production 👌🏻
Kiaya Carter-Brace — Google review
Nice to get back to Norden Farm after a long absence due to Covid risks. It's all fine, the bar is a bit daunting due to plastic screens. Plenty of people there and a good atmosphere. Nobody worrying too much about the virus. I enjoyed my evening.
paul f — Google review
Love this place. The performance was brilliant, and kids and parents equally enjoyed the show! Good parking. Good size venues will all kid friendly amenities you need! What's not to like? :-)
Reena H — Google review
What a wonderful venue for the people of Maidenhead and surrounds. Theatre, cafe, food and art all in a comfortable modern space added to a series of interesting older buildings.
I visited with my family (wife, kids and my mum) for a reasonably priced Christmas/winter show. The children were entranced by Miki, the tale of an Inuit child playing with her penguin and polar bear friends before using Midwinter magic to explore the ocean. Lovely staging, wonderful puppets and puppeteering and decent acting. I had a lovely time, enjoyed the show, and the listings suggest I'd be present more often if I lived nearby.
Ben Carter — Google review
Great venue. It says something significant when almost every performer thanks the venue for being such a perfect host to them. The atmosphere that attitude from the team creates for the whole visitor experience is fabulous
allistaire leighton-young — Google review
We've been to two concerts here and the staff are always very helpful and attending to any needs regarding wheelchair seats/companion seats. Both the large venue and the studio have good wheelchair access, and there are several disabled parking bays outside, though they do fill up quickly.
Josy B-D — Google review
Very frustrating visit to the market. The events starts at 6 and ends at 9. We arrived intending to get something to eat at 7:15, took a look around the market which didn’t contain any food stalls so started queueing around 7:25 at the bar. When we got to the front of the queue, we were advised we couldn’t have the fish and chips on the menu we had in our hands the whole time because the kitchen stopped at 7:30. It was 7:32.
Unimpressive first visit to Norden farm and i felt poor service given the above.
If you head to the market, recommend you eat first and don’t rely on being able to get anything there.
Charlie Came — Google review
I often go to Norden Farm; It's always worth checking out what's on there, especially if you're looking for something a bit different. It's a great little venue, with a relaxed atmosphere. There is also free on-site parking.
Claire Herbert — Google review
A great community asset with an eclectic mix of entertainment. The Pink Floyd tribute were colourful and fun. A real trip back to the 70s.
Charles Phillpot — Google review
This is such a fabulous venue we are so lucky to have it. We ate before the show and the food is fine, not fancy, but good value for money in my view. The theatre is fantastic for live theatre and 'A Band called Malice' were terrific 😀
Teresa Coles — Google review
Quiet, inspiring, ideal place to sit and draw on myiPad or read a book - great art books here on the window shelves.
Just been to One Snowy Night with my 6 y.o., loved it ♥️
Liya Dautova — Google review
Went to see Oppenheimer. So mice to park in car park and go into a small theatre with no hassle. Air conditioning was very welcome on a warm night
Alison Daniell — Google review
First time here to see a comedian, and she was great! It's a nice intimate size theatre, the bar area looks good but it was busy and I'm not sure if this is where the food would also be served. I'd visit again, as its value for money and local for me.
Sarah Budd — Google review
Great for live music. Good views from all seats. Good bar and cafe. Very helpful staff/volunteers.
Steve Howell — Google review
This was my first visit to the centre. Seating on the balcony was great, room to dance up there, was a huge bonus. Band playing were tops. Bar wait was good. Will visit again very soon. Super atmosphere
Anne Ogston — Google review
Very lovely, intimate theatre venue with great views of the stage all around and fantastic acoustics. Staffvwere accommodating and friendly.
Miles Thomas — Google review
This is excellent Arts Centre - great events in really good performance spaces, and a fine café and bar to boot
Steve Kershaw — Google review
Super service from staff at the bar, on the door and in general. Very welcoming, polite and attentive. Great night listening to Women Rock. Female vocals were superb.
Fiona Melvin — Google review
We went to see Joe Wells back on the 14th March. Me and my boyfriend have autism and seeing an autistic comedian we felt very relaxed during the show. Really loved it!
Ray Mill Island is a serene country park located on an island in the Thames. Visitors can enjoy picnics at the provided tables, grab refreshments from seasonal cafes, and watch their kids play on the playground. The park also houses an aviary with small birds and guinea pigs for animal lovers to admire. One can sit by the river or weir to take in the beautiful scenery and relax on any of the benches scattered around.
Free entry, easy to access.
Very safe and clean.
There's a small Cafe with sandwiches and coffee for decent prices.
Quintin de Jager (Qman) — Google review
This is a lovely little place, i know some people aren't keen on squirrels but I adore them and there's plenty here having a jolly and I loved watching them. Really cool seeing and sitting by the weir and next to the rive. A lovely peaceful place for young and old. Picnic areas and plenty of benches if you need frequent rests or just want to enjoy the scenery. Food huts and toilets available and area with small animals like guinea pigs and small birds. Personally I do feel the bird cages could be updated as they seem a little miserable but a nice addition we weren't expecting.
Mel L — Google review
Lovely place to visit. Great ice-cream and cafe on the Island. High class pub just over the bridge. Two carparks across the road to choose from, one with a little cafe serving roadside cafe food and drink. Also has a mini golf. with the island you can make it a little day out without too much expense. The island is a calming lovely little garden. Remember there is fast flowing river and a deep water canal so keep an eye on your little ones.
Paul Rogers — Google review
Beautiful island in the River Thames! They have enclosures with guinea pigs and birds, a few cafes and trails inside the woods. You can also rent out boats for the day and at one end of the island there's a great restaurant.
Matteo Tomassetti — Google review
Lovely place for children and adults alike, nice and quiet. River walks and gardens well maintained, friendly atmosphere.
Veronica Lourens — Google review
I had never been here before and came after seeing the hell fire caves a short drive away. Myself and children really enjoyed it. Very pretty little area and awesome weir to see. We went to the food cafe nearby and got some food and drink which was very reasonably priced. Admittedly we got a deal as it was near the end of the day but even without that it was priced fairly. We had hotdogs and drinks and a few snacks and ice creams. Lovely little play area for kids nearby and a few bird aviary's to see with birds. Squirrels running around near which the younger kids loved. Walked up to the Weir bit and it is quite loud but impressive to see. We crossed over the bridge to the little island and walked up to the other side of Weir and back. In all a nice place to spend an hour or two.
Jason Lovelock (Jaydemon) — Google review
Beautiful place for a walk with great views. Generally well maintained. Plenty of benches to sit on and admire the view. Ice cream shop and toilet facilities are a bonus. There’s a restaurant onsite (The Boathouse) for coffee/brunch after your walk. Parking nearby which is handy (Boulters Lock Car Park).
A G — Google review
Cool place to have a walk and family hang around with nature & beauties. This island has a small play ground, ice cream shop and toilet facilities. All though there is no parking here, but there is a parking surrounding & its cheap.
Ashad Babu — Google review
Beautiful place to visit by river Thames. Stunning wooden bridge goes above the river, takes you to this little romantic island. Definitely I come back
agnes batai (Anyi) — Google review
Little cozy park with plenty of benches with wonderful views, if you feel like having some "me" time it's the place to go!
Short walk around, grab a coffee, seat on bench and enjoy the view!
Soheila Tadayyoni — Google review
Nice place, nice views. Looks a bit run down in places and if kept well would be great. Quite a quick walk around the island itself which was disappointing and the food offered was of a very very cheap standard. One good thing great ice cream and not too expensive either