Chester Zoo is hiring paid apprentices and they don’t need any qualifications

Chester Zoo is on the look out for apprentices as part of its new paid apprenticeship scheme that requires no qualifications or experience.

The unique opportunity aims to inspire more people to take up a career in conservation, and offers a variety of roles including zookeepers, aquarists and horticulturalists, as well as positions in animal and plant logistics.

Chester Zoo, which currently employs 850 people, says the scheme is aimed at a range of people at different stages in their lives, from school leavers to those wanting a change in career.

A degree or any other formal qualification is not required, with zoo recruitment chiefs looking to widen access to full-time employment in animal and plant focussed roles to people from all walks of life. 

Chester Zoo

Jen McDermott, head of people and culture at Chester Zoo, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for fourteen apprentices to join our talented animal and plant teams and become part of our charitable effort to prevent extinction.

“Each and every one of our apprentices will be trained and mentored by specialist and experienced staff from across the zoo, ensuring they’re ready and equipped with the skills needed to work in a modern conservation zoo.

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“They’ll also work alongside our new Conservation Training Academy, which will enable and inspire 5,000 conservationists to deliver positive change for wildlife over the next ten years.

“We’re always looking at how our charity can continue to improve and become even more inclusive and our new apprenticeship scheme is a fantastic way to open up career opportunities to anyone who is passionate about conservation.”

Chester Zoo

The zoo has also partnered with Derby College Group (DCG), which will provide full accreditation for the scheme, including all formal training elements and assessment.

Stacey Higgs, curriculum manager at Derby College Group, said: “We have widespread experience of further education, higher education and apprenticeship routes into animal management and are delighted to be working with Chester Zoo to help recruit and to train the apprentices under this innovative programme.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for young people and adults alike to earn while they learn and to get the first foot on the ladder in this exciting and growing sector with a first class wildlife charity.”

Applications for Chester Zoo’s apprenticeship scheme are open now, and close next Friday, May 20th. If you fancy your chances at a career in zoo keeping, you can apply here.