At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead conservation, community engagement, and research initiatives at our Animal Centre.
- Company: Join the Berkshire College of Agriculture, a leader in animal welfare and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme, and health perks.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career progression and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in conservation and education while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing public education programmes and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 32418 - 35357 £ per year.
Windsor Forest Colleges Group is looking for a full-time Conservation, Community and Research Lead to join our Berkshire College of Agriculture team. The role pays from £32,418.38 to £35,357.84, depending on experience and qualifications. Schedule: 5 days in 7 including occasional weekend work, 40 hours per week.
Responsibilities
- You will be the College lead for the strategic development, operation, and quality assurance of our Animal Centre’s conservation, research, and public education provision.
- Design, develop and implement an effective engagement strategy that aligns with BIAZA requirements and provides an outstanding learning environment for students and the public.
- Ensure research and conservation systems are robust, ethically sound and used to continuously improve animal welfare and biodiversity at the BCA site.
- Build and lead Conservation, Community and Research activity, achieving the KPIs set out in the relevant strategies.
- Manage public education programmes at a senior level within zoological, land-based, or further education sectors.
- Develop a high‑performing, supportive and challenging culture for staff and learners, rooted in core college values and sector‑leading best practices in sustainability, animal welfare, and industry engagement.
Qualifications & Experience
- Significant experience managing public education programmes at a senior level in zoological, land‑based, or further education sectors.
- Strong leadership and engagement skills, with proven ability to meet KPIs and deliver on strategic initiatives.
- Commitment to sustainability, animal welfare and industry engagement.
Benefits include:
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) with 24.3% employer contribution.
- Support roles enjoy 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
- Career progression opportunities for ambitious staff.
- Access to a wide range of subsidised leisure courses.
- Access to excellent defined benefit pension schemes.
- Free on‑site parking at all sites.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Family friendly policies to support Work‑Life Balance.
- Onsite Coffee Shop & Cafeteria.
- Health & wellbeing benefits including discounted gym memberships, confidential staff counselling and discounted hair and beauty treatments at The Salon at Langley College.
Job Details
- Frequency: Annual
- Job Reference: windsorforest/TP/5951/763
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Closing Date: 19 July 2026
- Job Category: Animal & Science
- Business Unit: Support
- Location: Berkshire College of Agriculture Hall Place, Burchetts Green Rd, Burchett's Green, Maidenhead, SL6 6QR, United Kingdom
The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all its staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS and Barred List check along with other legally required checks which are an essential part of the safeguarding process.
Conservation, Community and Research Lead in Maidenhead employer: Windsor College
Windsor Forest Colleges Group is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment for the Conservation, Community and Research Lead role at Berkshire College of Agriculture. With a strong commitment to sustainability and animal welfare, employees benefit from generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and numerous opportunities for professional growth, all while contributing to meaningful conservation and education initiatives in a picturesque location. The college fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, ensuring that staff are empowered to make a real impact in their community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Conservation, Community and Research Lead in Maidenhead
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Windsor College often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Conservation, Community and Research Lead in Maidenhead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Windsor College does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Windsor College
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Windsor College will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Windsor College.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Windsor College.
