This immersive Conservation with Zookeeping course takes you deep into the world of wildlife conservation. You’ll roll up your sleeves for real in‑situ conservation work, venturing into some of the UK’s wilder landscapes, and step inside a local zoological collection to discover how endangered species are cared for and protected through ex‑situ conservation.
For anyone considering a future in nature conservation or zookeeping, this is a rare chance to gain hands‑on experience and connect with professionals already working in the field.
The week begins out in nature, exploring a variety of habitats at nearby reserves. You’ll take part in practical conservation tasks, habitat management, and wildlife monitoring, building skills that are essential for fieldwork and ecological research.
In the second half of the course, the focus shifts behind the scenes at our partner zoos. You’ll take part in expert‑led workshops on animal handling, enrichment, and conservation practice—and enjoy some unforgettable close encounters with the animals themselves.
It is delivered in collaboration with: Dartmoor Zoological Society (inspiration for ‘We Built a Zoo’) at Slapton Ley in Devon
This course is for those aged 16 – 18 years old and is suitable for the residential section of the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. Always check with your leader before booking.
Tutor: Field Studies Council Staff
Courses are led by experienced Field Studies Council staff.
What's Included
A pickup and drop off at Totnes station is available for this course, £10 each way.
Before You Attend
This residential is only open to young people who will be aged 16 - 18 years old at the time of attending.
We want to ensure participants get to share in their experience with those of a similar age. Please consider what age the attendee will be on the course date and check they fit into the age category when booking.
If the attendee is under 18, the booking must be made by a parent/guardian. When you book, it is essential that you enter the age and attendees name in the Order Notes at the checkout.
When attending the residential dates which welcome 16-18 year olds, all participants will be expected to follow the behaviour and conduct rules which will be in place to safeguard young people.
