Join to apply for the Head of Conservation Education role at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
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Join to apply for the Head of Conservation Education role at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Twycross Zoo
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Closing date for applications is: 22nd Jul 2025
Sector: Education Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Salary: Salary £ 42,000 - £45,000 depending on experience
Now Hiring: Head of Conservation Education
Full-time: 37.5 hours/week (5 days out of 7)
Reporting to: Chief Conservation Officer
Be part of conservation history. Shape the future of education.
Twycross Zoo is on the brink of an extraordinary transformation. Following this week's national attention surrounding our Conservation in Action Report and the groundbreaking start of construction on the Global Conservation Centre (Twycross Zoo announces £25million investment to create 'Global Conservation Centre'), we are now looking for a visionary Head of Conservation Education to lead our expanding education efforts and help turn ambition into action.
This is a once-in-a-career opportunity to take a pivotal leadership role in one of the UK’s most exciting conservation developments. You will head a passionate, expert team delivering everything from volunteer-led education talks to formal degree-level learning, all within a working zoo environment committed to global change.
Why This Role Matters:
As a 60-year-old conservation and education charity, Twycross Zoo has a bold strategy for 2023–2030. Education sits at the heart of our mission to protect species and habitats through science, training and public engagement.
The upcoming Global Conservation Centre is a £25m investment into the future of conservation education and science. It will triple our formal education delivery, enhance public engagement, and host higher education, research and international training programmes. As Head of Conservation Education, you will play a lead role in making this vision a reality.
What You’ll Be Doing:
Lead and inspire the formal and informal education teams, delivering impactful conservation learning for schools, volunteers, zoo guests and academic partners.
Drive the development and delivery of university-level training and applied conservation modules as part of our growing HE partnerships.
Oversee engaging public programmes, on-site interpretation and digital content to bring conservation science to life for our visitors.
Shape inclusive, innovative education that reflects and respects our diverse audiences.
Represent Twycross Zoo on the national and international stage—including media, conferences and collaborative projects.
What You’ll Need:
MSc or PhD in conservation, zoology, science education or related discipline (desirable).
Proven leadership and team management experience in a zoo, science education or academic setting.
Strong track record of designing and delivering impactful conservation education programmes.
Skilled in curriculum development, research supervision, and public engagement.
Excellent communicator with a collaborative approach across teams and stakeholders.
Committed to equality, diversity and inclusion in education practice.
Budget management, strategic planning and organisational confidence.
Flexible, dynamic, and driven to make a measurable difference.
Benefits:
Be at the forefront of one of the UK’s most high-profile conservation education projects.
Work in a purpose-driven organisation with a strong conservation and research ethos.
Collaborate with global partners and shape the next generation of conservationists.
Competitive salary and a flexible, supportive working environment.
Deadline for applications: 22 July 2025
Interview Dates: 7/8 August 2025
Benefits
Here’s what you can look forward to as one of our valued employees:
Generous Holiday Time
Enjoy 31 Days of Holiday!
That’s Right – We Offer 31 Days Of Holiday Each Year Including Statutory Holidays (3 Days More Than The Statutory 28 Days). Plus, The Longer You Stay With Us, The More Time You Can Take To Recharge:
1 additional day every 5 years of service, up to 35 days per year!
Your Hard Work, Your Time Off
Whether it’s a week at the beach, a city break, or time with your family, we want to make sure you have time to rest, explore, and come back refreshed.
Health & Wellness Benefits
Company Sick Pay (CSP)
We understand that sometimes illness is unavoidable. Employees on permanent contracts who have successfully completed their probation period will receive Company Sick Pay (CSP) at their normal rate of pay for a total of 4 weeks in any 12-month period. CSP is payable from the first day of sickness absence.
After 5 years of continuous service, CSP entitlement increases to 12 weeks.
Flu Vaccinations
Stay healthy with free annual flu vaccinations, helping you stay fit and well throughout the year.
Private Medical Insurance
Stay healthy and covered with our private medical insurance!
Perkbox Membership
Enjoy an exclusive membership to Perkbox, our employee benefits platform filled with wellness perks, discounts, and freebies. Explore perks tailored to your lifestyle, all at your fingertips!
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Your mental and emotional health matter to us. Our confidential Employee Assistance Program provides support with counselling services, stress management resources, financial advice, and more. Whether you’re facing a personal challenge or need someone to talk to, the EAP is here to help.
Mental Health First Aiders
We have trained Mental Health First Aiders on-site to support your mental well-being. These team members are available to provide a listening ear, help you manage work stress, and guide you to additional resources when you need them. Remember, you’re never alone!
Future Planning
Workplace Pension Scheme
Plan for tomorrow, today! Our workplace pension scheme helps you invest in your future, with enhanced employer contributions that grow alongside your savings. Both you and the Zoo contribute to your pension, the Zoo contributes 7% into your pension whilst you contribute 3%.
Life Assurance
We’ve got you covered with life assurance that provides financial security for your loved ones, giving you peace of mind for whatever the future holds. Depending on your grade level, we offer coverage valued at up to 3x your salary.
Financial Wellbeing Support
From savings tips to retirement planning advice, we offer resources and guidance to help you make smart financial decisions. Our Employee Assistance Program also includes confidential financial advice when you need it.
Everyday Comforts
Free Tea, Coffee & Toast Daily
Start your day right with free tea, coffee, and toast provided every day. A little something to keep you fuelled and ready to make a difference.
Enjoy Discounts Across Our Retail and Catering Locations
Save every time you grab a meal, snack, or souvenir at the park. It’s our way of saying “thank you” for all that you do!
Fun Perks for You and Your Family
Free Park Admission Just for You
Visit the Zoo whenever you like and make the most of your role here!
Family & Friends Ticket Allowance
Share the experience with loved ones! Each year, you’ll receive a special allowance of tickets for friends and family. Treat your loved ones to a fun day out on us.
Reciprocal Zoo Visits
Explore other amazing zoos and attractions through our reciprocal agreement program – perfect for adventure lovers!
Training & Development Opportunities
Customer Service & Communication Skills Training
Hone Your Skills To Deliver World-class Experiences.
Leadership Academy
Ready to take the next step? Our Leadership Academy is designed to help you grow and develop into a future leader.
Tailored Development Programs
We’re committed to helping you thrive with personalised training opportunities.
Team Building & Employee Events
Team Away Days
Strengthen bonds and have fun with regular team away days – a great way to recharge and connect with your colleagues.
Employee Events
Enjoy a variety of social events throughout the year, including quiz nights, bingo, a summer festival, and even a running club. It’s all about building memories and fostering community!
Go Green: Electric Car Lease Program
Electric Car Lease
Drive green with our new electric car lease program which is a salary sacrifice scheme and includes your insurance! This eco-friendly benefit allows you to lease an electric vehicle, helping both you and the planet. Join us in reducing our carbon footprint while enjoying a more sustainable commute.
Join Us in Making a Difference!
From impacting global conservation, the animals to the atmosphere, our Zoo is all about