Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist Great Ape Keepers in animal husbandry and enrichment activities.
- Company: Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve, dedicated to wildlife conservation.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, uniform provided, and discounts at park food outlets.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal conservation while learning from experts.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, fit for physical tasks, and passionate about animals.
- Other info: Ideal for students or recent graduates in animal-related courses.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
At Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve, situated near Hythe in Kent, we have a voluntary internship placement available on the Gorilla and Orangutan Section. We are looking for a passionate, hardworking individual to work alongside our small team of enthusiastic and likeminded Great Ape Keepers. Port Lympne works in conjunction with The Aspinall Foundation; a charity committed to the conservation of rare and endangered animals through breeding and reintroduction programmes.
Port Lympne is home to the largest captive breeding group of Western Lowland Gorillas in the world with over 150 births to date. The individual will be taught husbandry techniques, as well as enrichment building, ape nutrition and educational public speaking. This placement is an excellent opportunity for you to shadow our keepers and to learn all aspects of animal husbandry. They will provide comprehensive practical training and significant insight into a successful and responsible zoological collection, with the goal of promoting your future employability in a career in animal husbandry.
These placements will be ideal for individuals already studying or have recently finished an animal related course and are looking to gain experience in the zoo industry. Candidates must be 18 or over, need to have a good level of fitness and will be happy with heavy lifting as this position can be physically demanding. The applicant will also be happy working with heights.
We are looking for a commitment of 3-5 days a week for 6-12 months for these internships. As we are a Registered Charity, funded entirely by visitor fees and donations, we regret we are unable to offer any wages or salary for the placement. We will provide uniform and discount at the parks food outlets for the days that you attend work. No other financial benefits are offered. Candidates will need to have the ability to financially support themselves for the entire length of the internship. Please be aware that unfortunately we are unable to offer accommodation.
To apply, email your CV and covering letter to Simon Griggs: Please specify which internship you are applying for in your email subject.
Voluntary Great Ape Keeper Internship in Hythe employer: Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park
Contact Detail:
Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Voluntary Great Ape Keeper Internship in Hythe
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former interns and staff at Port Lympne. They can give you insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the role!
✨Tip Number 2
Get hands-on experience! Volunteer at local animal shelters or wildlife centres to boost your skills. This not only makes your application stand out but also gives you real-life stories to share during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching the Great Apes and their conservation needs. Show us that you're passionate about animal husbandry and ready to learn. We love candidates who come prepared with questions!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Voluntary Great Ape Keeper Internship in Hythe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV: Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience or studies related to animal husbandry. We want to see your passion for wildlife and any hands-on experience you've had, so don’t hold back!
Personalise Your Covering Letter: Your covering letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you’re excited about this internship and how it fits into your career goals. Show us your enthusiasm for working with Great Apes and the conservation efforts at Port Lympne.
Follow the Application Instructions: When applying, remember to specify which internship you're after in the email subject line. It helps us keep things organised and shows that you pay attention to details – a key skill for any keeper!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right place and makes a great first impression!
How to prepare for a job interview at Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve & Howletts Wild Animal Park
✨Know Your Great Apes
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge about gorillas and orangutans. Understand their behaviours, habitats, and conservation efforts. This will show your passion for the role and help you connect with the team.
✨Show Your Commitment
Be ready to discuss your availability and commitment to the internship. Highlight your willingness to work 3-5 days a week for 6-12 months, as this is crucial for the role. Employers love candidates who are dedicated and reliable.
✨Demonstrate Physical Readiness
Since the role involves heavy lifting and working at heights, be prepared to talk about your fitness level and any relevant experiences. Share examples of physical tasks you've handled in the past to reassure them you're up for the challenge.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the internship and the team. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you. Ask about training opportunities or specific projects you might be involved in.