Job opportunities

Education Assistant - fixed term

This exciting role involves working in a small team across both Africa Alive and Banham Zoo,to primarily deliver the formal education (onsite, outreach and online sessions), but also assist with live presentations, animal talks and holiday clubs. You will also assist in the upkeep of the Discovery Centres to ensure they are clean, welcoming and accessible to all audiences.

Main responsibilities include:

·        Planning, producing and delivering a range of formal education sessions for EYFS to FE/HE level, based around the National Curriculum and ZSEA’s conservation message. These sessions may be onsite, online or outreach.

·        Planning, producing and delivering a range of activities for specific groups such as summer clubs, SEND days etc.

·        Devising, writing and continually upgrading the educational resources for use by schools, home educators and the general public.

·        Delivering informal education activities such as animal talks, animal experiences and ‘Toby Investigates…’ presentations during times when there are no formal education sessions booked / school holiday times.

·        Working collaboratively across the organisation ensuring the smooth delivery of the day-to-day visitor activities. 

If successful in this role, you will be working 37.5 hours per week over 5 days, and due to the nature of the business, this involves weekend and bank holiday working.  This role is offered on a fixed term basis, and will end on 02nd November 2025.  The anticipated start date is between mid-April, although there is some flexibility around this for the right candidate.

The successful candidate will have :

·        A degree level qualification in order to teach science at all levels.

·        Experience in the education sector (desirable)

·        Knowledge of the National Curriculum and EYFS Framework (desirable)

·        Experience gained in an organisation where visitors come to enjoy a day out and/or learn, such as a zoo, outdoor education centre or museum.

·        Great communication skills

·        Experience with SEND / SEMH audiences (desirable)

·        Ability to prioritise and be very well organised

·        Able to challenge ideas respectfully

·        Able to demonstrate a consistent, collaborative, and respectful approach to management and building relationships with other teams.

·        Respects confidentiality, inclusivity, and diversity

·        Strong critical thinking skills and able to help others to resolve them.

·        Ability to stay focussed on tasks in hand.

·        Ability to listen and show empathy and understanding.

·        Microsoft Word, Excel, PPT literacy essential and Adobe experience desirable.

·        A full driving licence is also essential as you will be required to drive between two sites.

In return we offer:  Various staff benefits, 28 days paid holiday per year including bank holidays, free parking, and a fabulous environment.

If you would like an opportunity to join our fantastic team, please send your CV with a covering email, explaining why you would be a suitable candidate for this position to

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Wednesday 12th March 2025.  Interviews may take place ahead of the closing date.

ZSEA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All staff appointments are subject to satisfactory references and Right to Work in the UK. We are an equal opportunities employer