Volunteers wanted

Volunteers play a very important role in the life of the ZSL. They do not take the place of paid staff, but they contribute to the vital conservation and education efforts of London Zoo in a variety of different ways. In accepting volunteers (upon interview), we aim to place people where they can make the most of their skills to the benefit of the organisation and our visitors.

Training is provided for all the following aspects of volunteering and while attendance at training sessions is compulsory, this is not onerous. Should you wish to join us, we require a commitment of regular attendance and a commitment to learn. In return, we offer rewarding work, complementary tickets, a part-subsidised lunch and a conservation magazine, among other benefits. Volunteers must be over 18. There is no upper age limit as long as you are fit and active – we especially welcome applications from newly-retired people.

Join our team of dedicated volunteers and you will learn new skills, meet new people and contribute directly to the education and conservation work of ZSL.

Become a Visitor Volunteer

• These volunteers help extend the educational role of the Zoo, by providing fun and educational activities for our visitors. You need to be friendly, reliable and a good communicator. After training you will: talk to visitors about animals and conservation on the Touch Tables
• present animals to visitors (optional) e.g. a giant snail, millipede, snake or ferret
• staff the Craft Centre, providing badge making and brass rubbing activities for children
• help out at special events, such as our annual day for disabled children or Christmas activities
• help run fundraising activities for the conservation of animals in the wild
• staff the information kiosk (after 6 months)

Become a Library Volunteer (weekdays only)

If you love natural history books, then ZSL's extensive library is the place for you. You'll help our Librarians to maintain and restock the books. Some previous experience in a library is useful. Not recommended for asthma sufferers.

Become an Office Volunteer (weekdays only)

Many hands make light work! Your extra pair of hands could help the teams-behind-the –scenes doing various administrative tasks, such as cataloguing slides, mailouts and assisting the Volunteer Co-ordinator in a variety of tasks. If you can spare a few hours a week or a fortnight on a regular basis, then we'd like to hear from you.

How to volunteer

Print off an application form and post to:
Volunteer Recruitment
London Zoo
Regent's Park
NW1 4RY

Alternatively, email the form to: Education.admin@zsl.org

Work experience placements 2005

We are no longer taking applications for 2005. There has been a huge demand for places and successful applicants will be notified by mid January 2005.