At a Glance
- Tasks: Care for a variety of animals and support students in hands-on learning.
- Company: Bishop Burton College, dedicated to animal welfare and education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a passionate team in a dynamic educational environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal care while inspiring future professionals.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Animal Care qualification and 2 years' practical experience required.
The predicted salary is between 25847 - 25847 £ per year.
Bishop Burton College is looking for a passionate and dedicated Animal Keeper who is committed to delivering the highest standards of animal welfare while helping to inspire the next generation of animal care professionals. This role would suit someone currently working within a zoo, wildlife park, kennels, rescue centre, farm park, educational animal unit or other animal care environment, who is now looking to take the next step in their career within an educational setting.
You will be confident working with a wide range of species, experienced in practical animal husbandry, and enthusiastic about supporting students during practical learning activities. Based within our specialist Animal Management department, you will play a key role in the day-to-day operation of the animal unit, supporting feeding, enrichment, health monitoring, enclosure maintenance and maintaining exceptional welfare standards across the department. You will also work closely with academic staff to help provide engaging, hands-on and industry-focused learning experiences for students.
Essential Skills
- Level 3 in a recognised Animal Care qualification or above
- Full UK driving licence
- At least 2 years’ practical experience in animal husbandry and welfare in an animal establishment working with a range of different species including rodents, reptiles and primates
- Good knowledge of relevant legal regulations and animal welfare standards
- Strong verbal communication skills
- Ability to assess animal behaviour and health issues and respond appropriately
- Ability to maintain accurate records of animal care, health, and behaviour
- A high standard of IT skills to include the use of Excel
- Ability to prioritise workload and manage competing demands effectively so deadlines can be met
- Able to work flexibly to attend occasional college events held on weekends and during the evening
- Able to be resilient when addressing challenging behaviours and promoting appropriate attitudes
- Knowledge of child protection issues
- Able to form and maintain appropriate relationships and personal boundaries with young people
- Willingness to undertake mandatory health and safety training
- Confident when liaising with parents, students and stakeholders
- A willingness to undertake additional training offered at the college
- Motivation to work with children and young people
- Fit for the duties of the post
- DBS check carried out on appointment
Desirable Skills
- Degree in animal science, biology, or a related field
- First Aid at Work
- Practical experience in animal husbandry and welfare in an education environment
- Awareness of and commitment to maintaining a safe working environment
- Understanding of personal responsibility for health, safety and wellbeing in the workplace
- Responds positively and effectively to challenging situations and change
- Emotional resilience in working with challenging behaviours and appropriate attitudes to use of authority and maintaining discipline
Animal Keeper - Bishop Burton Campus - York Road *Wage amended* in London employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Bishop Burton College is an exceptional employer that prioritises animal welfare and education, offering a supportive work culture where passionate individuals can thrive. With a commitment to professional development, employees benefit from opportunities to enhance their skills while inspiring the next generation of animal care professionals in a vibrant educational setting. Located in the picturesque surroundings of York Road, the college fosters a collaborative environment that values innovation and hands-on learning experiences.
Contact Details:
British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Animal Keeper - Bishop Burton Campus - York Road *Wage amended* in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the animal care field, whether it's through social media or local events. We all know that sometimes it's not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the college and its animal management department. We want you to show off your knowledge about their practices and values. This will not only impress them but also help you feel more confident during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As an Animal Keeper, you'll need to interact with students and staff regularly. We suggest doing mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable discussing your experience and passion for animal welfare.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform. So, go ahead and submit your application today!
We think you need these skills to ace Animal Keeper - Bishop Burton Campus - York Road *Wage amended* in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for animal care shine through! We want to see your dedication to animal welfare and how you can inspire students. Share specific experiences that highlight your commitment.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Animal Keeper. Highlight your relevant qualifications and experience, especially in practical animal husbandry. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we’re looking for!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your skills and experiences at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our college there.
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Know Your Animals
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the various species you'll be working with. Be prepared to discuss their behaviours, health needs, and welfare standards. This shows your passion and commitment to animal care, which is crucial for the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Highlight your practical experience in animal husbandry during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've handled different species and any challenges you've overcome. This will demonstrate your hands-on skills and readiness for the job.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong verbal communication skills are essential for this role. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, especially when discussing animal care with students or stakeholders. This will show that you can engage and inspire others.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you'd handle challenging behaviours or emergencies. Think through potential scenarios and your responses ahead of time. This preparation will help you feel more confident and ready to tackle any situation that arises.
