Volunteering

Volunteering in any field of work can be an extremely rewarding experience, but for many volunteering at a zoo is among the most rewarding experiences available. At DZP you'll get new skills and experience. And you'll have a really good time along the way.

Anyone with an interest in animals, conservation or education can find a variety of rolls here that are both challenging and enriching.

We have a fantastic team of volunteers at DZP, all of whom make a valuable contribution to our work here. Working in the presentation, education and maintenance departments they come from a variety of backgrounds and some have been with us for many years.

Volunteers operate within the structure of DZP under strict health and safety requirements receiving substantial training and ongoing supervision by qualified staff. As a consequence, people seeking volunteer positions must be over 18yrs of age. 

If you think you have what it takes to be part of our team and would like to know more, please contact the appropriate person with:

• a letter introducing yourself and outlining your background
• a CV detailing experience and any relevant qualifications
• an outline of how many days per week, and for how long you would be available to volunteer

Dartmoor Pony Team

We need confident, self-motivated volunteers to help with the husbandry and training of our Dartmoor ponies. Applicants should have good horse experience and be able to ride as there will be infrequent riding opportunities. Qualifications in this regard are a bonus but not essential.

Our Dartmoor ponies form an important part of our education and conservation programme here at DZP. If you'd like to find out how and play a part in making it a success, then we'd love to talk to you.

Please contact: Natalie Kruger

Presentation Team

We are looking for volunteers to help us provide an involved and exciting experience for all of our visitors. The presentation team is responsible for a wide range of public talks and activities including conservation tours, Keeper for a Day experiences and our regular 'Close Encounters' display.

an outgoing personalityMembers of out presentation team are blessed with the following attributes:

• confidence when presenting one-to-one or to audiences of up to 300
• an interest in animals and conservation
• good interpesonal and team skills

Please contact: Emma Baker

Education Department

We are looking for flexible volunteers from an education background to support our Education Officer in developing our exciting range of activities.

Applicants will ideally have the following attributes:

• resource management skills
• an education background
• good interpersonal and communication skill, particularly with children

Please contact: Adam Cook

Maintenance & Grounds Keeping

Our maintenance team is responsible for everything from clearing drains and changing light-bulbs to designing and building new enclosures. In this department experience in the building trade is highly prized but by no means required. If you don't mind hard work you'll be very welcome.

We're also looking to build our grounds keeping team. We need handy people to help us maintain our extensive 33 acre woodland property. This includes managing the cultivated public spaces as well as maintaining the wildspaces which play an important role in our in situ conservation programme.

Please contact: Tim Steward