Northumberland Zoo offers a range of volunteer opportunities for individuals interested in gaining hands-on experience in animal care, conservation, and education. This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed information about the different volunteer roles, the application process, requirements, and the benefits of becoming a Northumberland Zoo volunteer.
Volunteer Roles at Northumberland Zoo
Northumberland Zoo has several volunteer roles available, each with its own set of responsibilities and requirements. Let’s explore these roles in detail:
Zookeeper Volunteer
As a Zookeeper Volunteer, you will assist the experienced keepers with daily duties, such as feeding, cleaning, and monitoring the animals. This role is suitable for individuals aged 18 and above who can commit to at least one day per week for a minimum of 12 weeks.
Walk-through Roles
In the Walk-through Roles, you will be responsible for monitoring the animals in the parrot and lemur walk-through areas and engaging with visitors to provide information and answer their questions. This role is also suitable for those aged 18 and above who can commit to at least one day per week for 12 weeks.
Customer Engagement
The Customer Engagement role involves assisting visitors on-site and providing them with key information about the zoo, its animals, and its conservation efforts. This role is suitable for individuals aged 18 and above who can commit to at least one day per week for 12 weeks.
Keeper Placement Volunteer
The Keeper Placement Volunteer role is designed for individuals studying a relevant animal-related qualification. In this role, you will gain practical experience and skills to complement your academic studies. This role requires a minimum commitment of 3 days per week for at least 12 weeks.
Application Process
To apply for a volunteer role at Northumberland Zoo, interested individuals should follow these steps:
- Zookeeper Volunteer, Walk-through Roles, and Customer Engagement: Contact [email protected] to express your interest and receive further information about the application process.
- Keeper Placement Volunteer: Email [email protected] with your full CV and a cover letter detailing why you are the ideal candidate for this role.
Requirements
The requirements for Northumberland Zoo volunteers vary depending on the specific role:
- Age: Volunteers must be aged 18 or above for most roles, except for the Keeper Placement Volunteer role, which requires applicants to be studying a relevant animal-related qualification.
- Commitment: A minimum commitment of one day per week for 12 weeks is required for most roles, while the Keeper Placement Volunteer role requires a minimum of 3 days per week for at least 12 weeks.
- Skills: Volunteers must have good communication skills, be physically fit, and be comfortable interacting with guests.
- Transportation: Volunteers must have a driving license and their own vehicle due to the location of the zoo.
- Background Check: All volunteers are required to undergo a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check prior to starting their volunteering, which the zoo will pay for.
Benefits of Volunteering at Northumberland Zoo
Becoming a Northumberland Zoo volunteer offers a range of benefits, including:
- Hands-on experience in animal care and conservation
- Training on various aspects of animal husbandry, including nutrition, enrichment, animal handling, health care, and record-keeping
- Opportunities to gain experience in other areas, such as hosting visitor talks
- Food and drink vouchers for use in the café while volunteering
- Appropriate uniform as required
- A full reference and guidance and support if seeking employment elsewhere at the end of the placement
- Complimentary zoo tickets
By volunteering at Northumberland Zoo, you can not only gain valuable experience but also contribute to the zoo’s conservation efforts and the well-being of its animal residents.
References:
– https://northumberland.ac.uk/for-visitors/northumberland-college-zoo/get-involved/
– https://biaza.org.uk/volunteering-in-biaza-zoos-and-aquariums
– https://biaza.org.uk/jobs/detail/4063