Volunteering
Please note specific recruitment dates for each volunteer opportunity.
If you are interested in getting involved with ZSL why not volunteer?
Volunteers play a very important role in the life of ZSL.
They do not take the place of paid staff, but contribute in a variety of ways to support ZSL’s education and conservation mission. Following an informal interview, volunteers undertake a probationary period (first 4 duty days) during which they complete an induction to their chosen role.
Training is provided where relevant and while attendance at training sessions is compulsory, this is not onerous.
Should you wish to join ZSL, we request a commitment of a regular and reliable attendance, and a willingness to learn. In return, we offer a fascinating and worthwhile opportunity in a great conservation charity. Volunteers must be over 18. There is no upper age limit as long as you are fit and active.
Please note:
- There is no direct contact with animals, unless stated, but they are all around you!
- All volunteers will be based at either ZSL London or Whipsnade Zoo in England; please apply only if you live within easy travelling distance of these sites.
- Volunteering is not the same as gaining a work experience placement. For more information about work experience and how to apply, please see the Work Experience page Working for ZSL .
Learning Volunteers (Not recruiting at present)This is a well-established programme at both ZSL London and Whipsnade Zoos with over 350 volunteers. Learning Volunteers interact with visitors to awaken or deepen an interest in animals and conservation, and help them have an enjoyable and interesting day at the Zoo. | ||
Outreach Support Volunteers (Not recruiting at present)Volunteers assist the Outreach Officers at ZSL London Zoo on their visits to London schools, taking appropriate animals with them to present to children. | ||
Membership Volunteers (Not recruiting at present)For those who wish to generate funds for wildlife and conservation at either ZSL London Zoo or ZSL Whipsnade Zoo by helping ZSL recruit new members for the ZSL Friends scheme. | ||
Library Volunteers (Not recruiting at present)ZSL owns the world’s finest and most extensive zoological library which has been operating since the 1820s. Volunteers assist the librarians in a variety of activities and also answer enquiries from the public. | ||
Administration Volunteers (Not recruiting at present)For those who prefer an indoor and office-based role, these are opportunities to give a hand with various administrative tasks at both ZSL London and Whipsnade Zoos. |
If, having read the information above, you still have further questions, please contact Volunteer Recruitment on 020 7449 6554. Important. We regret we cannot take applications for volunteer placments if you do not live in the UK.