Northumberland Zoo offers a range of exciting opportunities for individuals interested in gaining hands-on experience in animal care, including internships, placements, volunteering, and apprenticeships. Whether you’re a student, a career-changer, or simply someone with a deep love for animals, these programs provide a unique chance to immerse yourself in the world of zoo management and animal husbandry.
Internships at Northumberland Zoo
Northumberland Zoo’s internship program is designed for individuals aged 18 and above who are eager to learn and gain practical experience in various aspects of zoo operations. Interns will have the opportunity to shadow experienced keepers for the first four weeks, allowing them to develop a solid understanding of the zoo, its animals, and the daily tasks involved in their care. After the initial period, interns can choose to focus on specific areas of interest, such as ZIMS, nutrition and diet formulation, enclosure design, animal training, legislation, education, event management, presenting, enrichment, procurement, marketing, hosting, customer services, and research.
Placements at Northumberland Zoo
Northumberland Zoo also offers placements for students aged 16 and above who are studying an animal-related course or working towards getting on a veterinary or animal university course. These placements are limited to one student per week and last for a minimum of two weeks. During their time at the zoo, students will assist keepers in caring for the animals, maintaining the grounds, and interacting with visitors.
Volunteering at Northumberland Zoo
Volunteering at Northumberland Zoo is open to individuals aged 16 and above. Volunteers are mostly needed on weekends and during school holidays, and they will have the chance to meet new people, learn new skills in animal care, and receive the necessary training. Before starting their volunteer work, individuals must undergo a DBS check, which the zoo will cover the cost for.
Apprenticeships at Northumberland Zoo
Northumberland College offers a wide range of apprenticeships in various career sectors, including animal care. Apprenticeships combine practical training in a job with study, allowing apprentices to earn a wage and gain a nationally recognized qualification while learning on the job.
Costs and Rates
- Internships and placements are voluntary and unpaid.
- Volunteers are not paid, but the zoo will cover the cost of their DBS check.
- Apprentices earn a wage and receive holiday pay while learning.
Hours and Timings
- Internships and placements last for a minimum of four weeks, with full-time hours from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm daily, including weekends, and a regular day off each week.
- Volunteers are mostly needed on weekends and during school holidays.
- Apprenticeship durations and hours vary depending on the program.
Directory and Contact Information
- Northumberland College Zoo: Get involved – Northumberland College
- Northumberland Zoo: Jobs at the Zoo
- BIAZA: Animal Keeper | Northumberland Zoo – BIAZA
- Northumberland College Apprenticeships: Apprenticeships – Northumberland College
Northumberland Zoo’s diverse range of opportunities, from internships and placements to volunteering and apprenticeships, provide a unique chance for individuals to immerse themselves in the world of animal care and zoo management. Whether you’re a student, a career-changer, or simply someone with a passion for animals, these programs offer invaluable hands-on experience and the opportunity to contribute to the conservation and well-being of the zoo’s inhabitants.
References:
- Get involved – Northumberland College
- Job Listings | Northumberland Zoo
- Animal Keeper | Northumberland Zoo – BIAZA
- Careers – Northumberland Zoo
- Apprenticeships – Northumberland College