Zoo Keeper (Apprentice)

• Vacancy Type
• Apprenticeship
• Location
• Hailsham, BN27 3QH
• School
• Senior School
• Application Deadline
• Monday, March 9, 2026
• Job Summary

• An exciting opportunity has arisen for a passionate and enthusiastic individual to join our dedicated Animal Management team as an Zoo Keeper Apprentice at Bede’s Senior School, starting with us on 8th April 2026.

  This is a fantastic chance to launch your career in animal management, working with a diverse collection of animals while studying towards an apprenticeship qualification of Animal Keeper and Aquarist.

  The Role

  You will assist in the efficient operation of the Animal Management Unit, focusing on:

  • Basic Husbandry:Providing all aspects of care for the animal collection, including cleaning, feeding, waste disposal, and enclosure maintenance.
  • Enclosure Maintenance:Performing routine maintenance and repair of exhibits and holding areas under supervision.
  • Behavioural Enrichment:Ensuring animals receive suitable daily enrichment.
  • Record Keeping:Accurately recording any changes in animal behaviour, feeding, or health concerns.
  • Animal Health & Welfare:Assisting with handling, restraining, and administering medication as required, and liaising with the veterinary surgeon.
  The Ideal Candidate

  We are looking for someone with:

  • A genuine interest in pursuing a career in animal management and a strong enthusiasm to develop in this area.

  • GCSE Level 4 (or equivalent) in Maths, English, and Science.

  • The ability to demonstrate a high standard of animal management and to effectively handle a wide range of animals.

  • Excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and a methodical approach to work.

  • An understanding of safeguarding and its importance in a school environment.

  • While experience is not necessary, prior experience working or volunteering in an animal collection is desirable.

  We will be offering a Full-time, Apprenticeship position, working 40 hours per week (Monday - Sunday), 08:00 - 17:00 with a 1 hour unpaid break per day, four days onsite at our Senior School and one day studying online towards the apprenticeship qualification through Capel Manor College. This will be a two year fixed term contract.

  We will be looking for someone who has a willingness to work some evenings (e.g., open evenings), occasional nights (emergency on-call), weekends, and holidays is essential.

  This apprenticeship carries a starting hourly rate of £8.00 per hour. In addition to your pay, you will have access to a competitive set of staff benefits, such as:

  • A fantastic holiday allowance of 30 days plus bank holidays (full time equivalent)

  • A generous company pension with salary exchange options

  • Employee Assistance Programme

  • Retail Discounts

  • Aviva Digital GP app - swift and convenient access to a GP via video consultation

  • Free use of School gym & pool facilities/discounted nationwide gym membership,

  • Eye care vouchers,

  • Refer a Friend Scheme

  • Beneficiary Nominations (Death in Service),

  • Complimentary Lunch provided

  • Free onsite parking at the Senior School.

  We welcome applications from all sectors of the community as we aspire to attract staff that match the social and cultural diversity of our community. We consider the most important factor to be the right skills, abilities and attitude for the job which will ultimately improve the well-being and education of the pupils.

  For further information about the role please see the Job Description below. Select Apply Now to complete your application today! We very much look forward to receiving applications from candidates who are ready to leave a lasting impact on the lives of our young learners.

  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact

  recruitment@bedes.org.Please note that we are unable to accept CV’s, applicants must add their full education and employment history to their application.Application Closing Date:Monday 9th March 2026 at 8am.Bede’s Trust is committed to building a truly inclusive school and cultivating a culture of equality, diversity and kindness. We believe that a diverse staff body reflects and supports the diversity of our students and wider society. We are an equal opportunity employer and in recruiting for our team, we welcome the unique contributions that you can bring in terms of your education, opinions, culture, ethnicity, race, sex, gender identity and expressions, nation of origin, age, languages spoken, colour, religion, disability, sexual orientation and beliefs.Bede’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS check
• Job Profile
• Job Profile document