At a Glance
- Tasks: Care for animals, maintain welfare standards, and assist students during practical sessions.
- Company: Join the Windsor Forest Colleges Group, a leading education provider in the South East.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days leave, pension scheme, free parking, and health perks.
- Other info: Flexible weekend hours with opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Make a difference in animal care while gaining valuable experience in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification in a relevant subject and strong practical skills with animals.
The predicted salary is between 11019 - 11798 £ per year.
Windsor Forest Colleges group is looking for an Animal Technician to join our Animal Management and Science Department at our Berkshire College of Agriculture campus on a part-time permanent basis working weekends. This part-time Animal Technician role at BCA involves working 16 hours per week on a Saturday and Sunday. This position is on Scale G of the Support Staff pay scale paying between G17 £11,019.68 up to G19 £11,798.49 per year (G17 £25,483 up to G19 £27,284 FTE).
As an Animal Technician at BCA, you will be responsible for maintaining high standards of animal welfare and husbandry for all animals under our care. This includes daily checks and record-keeping of the animals' health and behaviours. Key tasks involve:
- Attending to the husbandry requirements such as cleaning enclosures, preparing and presenting food, ensuring appropriate bedding and water supply.
- Liaising with veterinarians for routine preventative treatments and medication administration as per the animal centre protocols.
- Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene of work areas and accommodations.
- Keeping up-to-date animal records using ZIMS and other methods.
- Implementing training and enrichment strategies for the animals.
The technician is also tasked with adhering to all Animal Management Centre procedures and protocols, providing guidance to student groups during practical weekend duties, and assisting in preparation for classes. Safety and security of the Animal Management Centre and compliance with college policies, particularly in health and safety, are paramount.
In terms of personal specifications, the job demands strong practical skills with various animals. The candidate should possess a minimum Level 3 vocational qualification in a relevant subject, strong record-keeping abilities, and the capability to work with minimal supervision.
About Us: The Windsor Forest Colleges Group (TWFCG) is a leading education provider in the South East. Our staff work across 4 main campuses at Langley, Windsor, Strodes Egham and Berkshire College of Agriculture Maidenhead. Our teams place the learner at the heart of all we do and in our state-of-the-art learning environments, we are proud to deliver education and training to a diverse group of students and businesses each year.
Our staff benefit from:
- 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays and college closure days.
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) currently offering 24.3% employer contribution.
- Free on-site parking at all sites.
- Career progression opportunities for ambitious staff.
- Access to a wide range of subsidised leisure courses.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Family friendly policies supporting Work Life Balance.
- Onsite Coffee Shop & Cafeteria.
- Various health & wellbeing benefits including discounted gym memberships, confidential staff counselling and discounted hair and beauty treatments at The Salon at Langley College.
Please be advised that the vacancy will close on 26th June 2026. Interviews will be held on a rolling basis. To apply please visit our careers page and complete the online application form. Please ensure you pay particular attention to the supporting statement of the online application form making sure to include details of how you meet each of the essential criteria listed on the person specification.
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.
Animal Technician (Weekend) in Reading employer: Windsor Forest Colleges
Windsor Forest Colleges Group is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its staff. As an Animal Technician at our Berkshire College of Agriculture campus, you will enjoy benefits such as 30 days of annual leave, a generous pension scheme, and access to various health and wellbeing initiatives, all while working in a state-of-the-art environment dedicated to animal welfare and education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Animal Technician (Weekend) in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the college and its values! Research Windsor Forest Colleges Group and understand their commitment to animal welfare and education. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend any open days or events they might have. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a recommendation when you apply through our website.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! As an Animal Technician, you’ll need to demonstrate your hands-on skills. Brush up on your husbandry techniques and be ready to showcase your knowledge about animal care during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision. Remember, we’re rooting for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Animal Technician (Weekend) in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. Make sure you understand what we're looking for in an Animal Technician and how your skills match up. This will help you tailor your application to stand out!
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement:Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Be sure to address each of the essential criteria listed in the person specification. Use specific examples from your experience to show us why you're the perfect fit for the role.
Keep It Professional but Personal:While we love a friendly tone, remember to keep your application professional. Share your passion for animal welfare and husbandry, and let your personality come through. We want to see the real you!
Apply Early Through Our Website:Don’t wait until the last minute! Apply as soon as you can through our careers page. We’re reviewing applications on a rolling basis, so getting your application in early could give you a better chance to impress us.
How to prepare for a job interview at Windsor Forest Colleges
✨Know Your Animals
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of animal husbandry and welfare. Familiarise yourself with the specific animals you'll be working with at BCA, as well as their behaviours and needs. This will show your passion for the role and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Highlight Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your practical skills and any relevant qualifications you have. Be ready to share examples of your previous work with animals, especially in a care or educational setting. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the position.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since you'll be guiding student groups during practical duties, it's important to convey your teamwork skills. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others, especially in a teaching or mentoring capacity, and be prepared to discuss them.
✨Understand the Importance of Record-Keeping
As record-keeping is a key part of the role, be ready to talk about your experience with maintaining accurate records. If you have used systems like ZIMS before, mention that! If not, express your willingness to learn and adapt to new systems quickly.
