Derby College Group apprentices complete landmark programme at Chester Zoo

 

The milestone highlights the strength of the college’s land-based provision and reinforces the importance of apprenticeships in developing the next generation of skilled animal care professionals. 

 

Outstanding apprenticeship results at Chester Zoo 

The programme, now in its second cohort across four years of partnership with Chester Zoo, has delivered exceptional outcomes. 

A remarkable 78% of apprentices achieved a Distinction in the practical element of their End Point Assessment, demonstrating both the quality of the training and the commitment of the apprentices. 

 

Real-world conservation experience and global learning 

 

Throughout the programme, apprentices gained far more than classroom knowledge, benefiting from a wide range of real-world and international experiences, including: 

• Study trips to Uganda and Madagascar 

• Attendance at leading sector conferences hosted by:  

• The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) 

• The Association of British and Irish Wild Animal Keepers (ABWAK) 

At Chester Zoo, apprentices also contributed to major projects, including: 

• The development of the UK’s largest ever zoo expansion, Heart of Africa 

• Education placements 

• The popular winter event Lanterns and Light 

 

Apprenticeships leading to careers in animal care 

One of the most significant outcomes of the programme is the number of apprentices who have successfully secured employment at Chester Zoo. 

This progression highlights the real-world impact of apprenticeships, with students moving directly from training into careers within one of the UK’s leading wildlife and conservation organisations. 

Derby College Group is particularly proud to see apprentices transition seamlessly into professional roles in the sector. 

 

Supporting the next generation of conservation professionals 

Jon Collins, Vice Principal – Landbased, said: 

“This is the second cohort that Chester Zoo have had over the last four years and they just continue to thrive, develop and grow.  

“It really does go to show that apprenticeships are vital in growing the next generation for the skillsets that landbased apprentices require. They really are each a credit to themselves through their hard work and dedication.” 

Liz Webb, Conservation Training Academy Manager at Chester Zoo, added: 

“Chester Zoo is incredibly proud of everything our apprentices have achieved over the past two years, from their dedication to conservation and their contributions across key projects both on site and with our field partners.  

“This programme continues to demonstrate the vital role apprenticeships play in building the skilled workforce our sector needs and ensures Chester Zoo is at the forefront of training our next generation of conservationists.” 

 

Strong partnership driving student success 

Derby College Group extends its sincere thanks to the teams, managers and mentors at Chester Zoo, whose ongoing support has been instrumental in the success of the programme. 

 The college looks forward to continuing and developing this valued partnership in the years ahead, ensuring future cohorts benefit from the same high-quality training and career opportunities.