Newquay Kickstarters help with animal food prep

Newquay Zoo gives new keepers a kick-start

Newquay Zoo is providing four young people with an amazing opportunity to kick-start their careers in zookeeping.

As part of the Government’s Kickstart Scheme, Newquay Zoo has taken on four general assistants in the keeper team, giving them a full introduction into the world of animal management.

The assistants are working with our keeper team, supporting in everything from food prep and cleaning to animal observations and record keeping. They also have access to a range of training including employability skills, health and safety and first aid.

The scheme has been so successful that Newquay Zoo is now looking to take on a further two Kickstarters this year.

The Kickstart Scheme launched in autumn 2020 to provide the funding to create new job placements for people aged between 16 and 24 who are in receipt of Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment.

The funding covers 100% of the National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week for a total of six months, along with training and support to get a job in the future.

Hannah Barker, People Services Manager, said: “The scheme is a great opportunity to give individuals the chance to gain experience and skills with our keepers.  This is an industry that can be difficult to get into and where any work experience is invaluable.”

Alongside the four Kickstarters at Newquay Zoo, a further nine young people are working at Newquay’s sister zoo Paignton as part of the scheme.

People who are interested in working at Newquay Zoo and eligible for the Kickstart Scheme and can now apply by talking to their work coach. For all the latest job, animal and event news, follow Newquay Zoo on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.