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- Tasks: Support engaging education events about wildlife and conservation for children and adults.
- Company: The Big Cat Sanctuary, a charity dedicated to wildlife protection.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop skills, and join a passionate community of volunteers.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in conservation while inspiring the next generation.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm for working with children and a passion for wildlife conservation.
- Other info: Flexible commitment of 1-2 days per week; driving licence required due to location.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
We're currently looking for a Volunteer Education Assistant to support the Big Cat Sanctuary Education and Sustainability Officer with the efficient running of education events, ensuring a high-quality and engaging education experience. Experience of, or willingness to, work with children of all ages and abilities, and on occasion adults, is essential, as is enthusiasm, a positive attitude and an ability to work well with people from a variety of backgrounds.
Location: The Big Cat Sanctuary, Smarden, Kent
Reports to: Education and Sustainability Officer
Commitment: At least 1-2 days per week, Mon‑Fri
Role Purpose: To support the Education and Sustainability Officer with the efficient running of education events ensuring a high-quality and engaging education experience.
Background detail: Through workshops, tours and sensory experiences, the BCS helps young people learn all about the cats at the Sanctuary and the threats they face in the wild. Exploring issues such as climate change, deforestation and illegal wildlife trade, we aim to educate and inspire students on both the negative impacts we are having on our planet and the animals that reside here, as well as positive initiatives that have been introduced to protect Earth and its inhabitants.
Role Description and Key Activities:
- Shadow and support the Education and Sustainability Officer to deliver activities for children.
- Assist with preparations for sessions including setting up rooms and preparing materials.
- Welcome children and teachers/parents to sessions, chat to people as they arrive and help familiarise them with the site and activities and answer any questions they might have.
- Assist the Education and Sustainability Officer with running sessions; this will include helping to supervise children, directing them in the activities and ensuring they are safe and happy.
- Always follow the Big Cat Sanctuary Safeguarding and Health and Safety guidance for working with children.
- Always uphold the values of the Sanctuary and actively promote the aims of the BCS with visitors.
- Work as part of a close‑knit team, closely following instructions and guidance.
Please note that specific sessions are usually aimed at specific age groups; if you prefer to work with a specific age group or on a particular activity, please let us know.
Specialist Knowledge and Experience:
- Experience of, or willingness to, work with children of all ages and abilities, and on occasion adults.
- Must undertake internal safeguarding training.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Knowledge of or interest in conservation/wildlife and an interest in working for a charity which is determined to protect wildlife for the future.
- Enthusiasm, a positive attitude and an ability to work well with people from a variety of backgrounds is essential.
Why Volunteer and Why This Opportunity?
As well as the opportunity to make a significant contribution to a worthwhile organisation, this role provides opportunities to develop skills and knowledge. It is also an opportunity to become part of a thriving community of committed volunteers. This opportunity will allow you to get experience working with children in a conservation charity.
Time Commitment: Ideally volunteering for at least one‑two days a week, generally Mon‑Fri, although education sessions may be arranged at different times and on different days of the week, so some flexibility would be helpful.
Conditions: Our roles will require a good level of physical fitness to support children in an outdoor environment, on uneven ground. Please let us know if you have accessibility requirements. Some of our roles require an enhanced barred DBS check; we can only accept checks from other organisations if you are on the updates service.
Activities You Will Be Doing:
- Youth Work
- Environmental Events & Stewarding
- Outdoors Conservation Education
What Skills Are Required for This Role:
- Talking To Others
- Conservation
- Listening
- Basic IT skills - internet & email
Role Address: The Big Cat Sanctuary, Headcorn Road, Smarden, Ashford TN27 8PJ
Directions: Due to the rural location of the Sanctuary and the fact that it is not accessible by public transport, full driving licence and access to your own vehicle is essential.
Number of Volunteers Required: 3
Application Process: Application Form, ID Check, References, Informal Discussion (may include an interview).
Volunteer Education Assistant employer: Kentvolunteers
Contact Detail:
Kentvolunteers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Education Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Big Cat Sanctuary! Before your interview, do a bit of research about their mission and values. This will not only help you understand what they’re all about but also show them that you’re genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be working with children and adults alike, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to engage and connect with different age groups. Maybe even try role-playing some scenarios with friends or family.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your enthusiasm! When you meet the team, let your passion for wildlife conservation shine through. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to education and sustainability.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your chat, send a quick thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity to discuss the role. It’s a nice touch that keeps you on their radar and shows your eagerness to join the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Education Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for wildlife and education shine through! We want to see your genuine interest in conservation and working with children, so share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your passion.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to fit the Volunteer Education Assistant role. Highlight your skills and experiences that align with the job description, especially your ability to work with diverse groups and your communication skills. We love seeing how you can contribute to our mission!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you'd be a great fit for the team!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at The Big Cat Sanctuary!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kentvolunteers
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the Big Cat Sanctuary's mission and the specific educational programmes they offer. Being able to discuss their conservation efforts and how you can contribute will show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
This role requires a positive attitude and enthusiasm for working with children and wildlife. Be sure to express your passion for education and conservation during the interview, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenarios
Think about potential scenarios you might face while working with children, such as managing different age groups or handling questions from parents. Prepare examples of how you've successfully navigated similar situations in the past.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask the interviewers about the role and the team. This shows that you're engaged and interested in how you can fit into their community of volunteers and contribute effectively.
