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Ongoing updates and improvements

Volunteer Roles

We do not have volunteer opportunities available at present so please do not register your interest in volunteering with us at this time. As soon as roles become available we will update this page.

By volunteering at Paignton Zoo, you will be supporting our education, scientific and conservation work.  

FAQs:

How old do I need to be to volunteer?

You need to be 18 or over as we require you to be able to volunteer unsupervised and independently. There is no upper age limit. 

We do though accept younger volunteers – between the ages of 14 to 18 years – for the Events Team Meet and Greet School Holiday Support Volunteer role. This will only be shown in the list of currently available volunteer roles below when opportunities are available. 


How do I register my interest?

 

Alternatively, please download and complete this form.   

Please return the completed form to:

Email[email protected]

Post: Volunteers’ Department, Paignton Zoo, Totnes Road, Paignton, TQ4 7EU

By hand: Information Desk / Reception at Paignton Zoo


What is the recruitment process?

As we have a limited number of opportunities, we endeavour to find people most suited to volunteering. This decision is based initially on the information you provide on the interest form and then through an informal discussion with shortlisted potential volunteers. Due to the number of interest forms received, we will only contact you if you are shortlisted. 

If you are successful in becoming a volunteer, we will ask for two references before you are able to start. We will also ask you bring along your passport and your National Insurance card or number with you to your induction meeting.  


Do you require a DBS check?

A DBS check may be necessary for some volunteer roles. You would be advised of this as a part of the volunteer induction process.


Will I be volunteering with the animals?

Volunteers do not have hands-on contact with zoo animals, unless stated, but you will be volunteering in an environment where the animals are all around you. 


Do you cover my travel expenses?

We do not reimburse travel expenses – please register your interest only if you live within easy travelling distance of the zoo. Our shortlisting takes into account the distance that you would have to undertake on a regular basis in order for you to carry out your volunteering.