Meet Maddy: our passionate placement student on a mission to rewild the world

Here at Newquay Zoo, we love welcoming placement students who bring fresh perspectives, big ideas, and a shared passion for wildlife conservation. This year, we’ve been lucky enough to have Maddy on the team – a Physical Geography student with a real drive to make a difference. We caught up with her to find out more about her role, her work, and what inspires her…

Place of study: University of Exeter

Course: BSc Physical Geography

What’s your role at Newquay Zoo?

Hi! I’m Maddy, and I’m a placement student here at Newquay Zoo. Since September 2024, I’ve been involved in a wide variety of conservation, research, and enrichment projects across the site. Every day is different, and every day I’m learning something new!

What does your placement involve?

A bit of everything, really! Over the past seven months I’ve helped build bug hotels, create a native species nature hub for the Easter holidays, created enrichment activities for our Asian short-clawed otters, and even trained our Visayan warty pigs (yes, that’s a real job and it’s as fun as it sounds).

One highlight has been monitoring the migration of European Eels as part of wider conservation work. But my favourite project so far? Supporting Save Vietnam’s Wildlife by remotely monitoring Owston’s civets and studying their breeding behaviour. It’s been incredible to work on international research and apply those findings to the civets here at Newquay Zoo.

What inspired you to study Physical Geography?

I’ve always loved the natural world – animals, ecosystems, wild places – so Geography felt like a natural fit. During my degree I’ve taken ecology modules that sparked a growing interest in rewilding and species reintroductions. That’s where I found my niche – using geographical skills, like GIS mapping, to support habitat restoration and conservation work.

What led you to apply for a placement at Newquay Zoo?

The chance to get real, hands-on experience in the world of animal conservation was a no-brainer. I knew Newquay Zoo was involved in meaningful conservation efforts both in the UK and overseas, and that really appealed to me. I also loved the idea of being part of a small but passionate team where I could make a real contribution.

Also – fun fact – my favourite animal is the beaver, so working on habitat restoration projects and even attending the premiere of the Beaver Trust’s new documentary was a dream come true!

What are you enjoying most about your placement?

Honestly, everything! But I’ve especially loved combining my academic background with real-world application. I’ve used GIS and coding skills to support projects, collaborated with students from Newquay University Centre, and even helped out in lectures. I’m also presenting my research at the BIAZA Research Conference in July – which is both nerve-wracking and exciting! Public speaking isn’t my strong point, but I’m looking forward to challenging myself.

What’s next for you?

This placement has really helped me focus on what I want to do after university – and given me the skills to get there. I’ve been to training courses, webinars, conferences, and networking events like the Rewilding Conference 2025, all of which have opened doors and boosted my confidence.

Whether I end up in a rewilding project, a conservation NGO, or even another zoo – I know I’ll carry everything I’ve learned here with me.

Any advice for students considering a zoo placement?

Go for it! You don’t need to study Zoology to make a difference in conservation. My Geography background has helped me approach challenges from a fresh angle and develop some really valuable skills. If you’re passionate, curious, and ready to get stuck in, you’ll thrive here.

And if you do visit Newquay Zoo, come and say hello – I’d love to chat more about my experience!

Planning your next visit?

Keep an eye out for Maddy (and maybe ask her about her favourite civet facts). And remember, every ticket, membership and donation helps support conservation projects just like the ones she’s been working on.