Activate Learning
Animal Keeper
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Animal Keeper
Animal Keeper – Casual Role
Merrist Wood College, Activate Learning
About the Role
We are currently recruiting a dedicated Animal Keeper to join our animal care team at Merrist Wood College.
We are looking for a hardworking and enthusiastic Animal Keeper to:
- Maintain high standards of husbandry and welfare for our livestock enterprise.
- Provide a friendly and informative experience for guests and visitors.
- Lead practical learning sessions to develop learners’ wider industry skills.
- Supervise work experience students, ensuring adherence to safety practices and industry standards.
The Animal Centre spans a 400-acre campus, featuring:
- A Rare Breed Survival Trust Accredited Farm
- A small domestic mammal section
- A zoo
You will work alongside sheep, cattle, pigs, goats, and poultry, delivering exceptional animal care, welfare, and husbandry. This role also supports breeding programmes, youngstock management, and livestock preparation for sale.
Key Responsibilities
- Daily livestock management, including feeding, health monitoring, and environmental maintenance.
- Breeding support (lambing, calving, farrowing, kidding).
- Handling and moving stock while maintaining the highest welfare standards.
- Assisting in livestock sales and general farm maintenance.
- Leading educational sessions and supervising students in practical exercises.
- Engaging with visitors to provide educational and informative experiences.
Hours & Flexibility
- Casual position, but the role requires working:
- Saturdays and Sundays (mandatory).
- Additional shifts may include weekdays and bank holidays for animal care.
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Who We Are – Activate Learning
Activate Learning is an education pioneer with a global reach, transforming lives through innovative learning. We foster:
- Empowerment & career development for our staff.
- Diversity and inclusion, creating an open community environment.
- Professional growth through continuous learning and development.
Requirements & Qualifications
Minimum Criteria
- Minimum one year’s full-time, paid experience in the farm/agricultural industry.
- An animal/agricultural qualification (preferably Level 3 or above).
Essential Skills & Experience
- Knowledge of livestock husbandry, breeding, and health protocols.
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Strong communication skills, with experience (desired but not essential) in educational settings.
- Physical stamina for hands-on, labour-intensive tasks.
- Professionalism, responsibility, and reliability.
- Teamwork and ability to work independently.
- Strong initiative, problem-solving, and technical expertise.
Special Considerations
- Must demonstrate a proactive, flexible approach to tasks.
- Prior educational involvement in this sector is advantageous but not mandatory.
What You’ll Gain – Activate Learning Employee Benefits
Professional & Career Support
✅ Learning & Development – Ongoing professional growth initiatives. ✅ Teacher & Local Govt Pension Schemes available for eligible staff. ✅ Competitive Salary – 12-point pay scale with annual incremental progression. ✅ Generous Paid Leave – Up to 6 weeks per year.
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Wellbeing & Resources
🌿 Monthly Staff Appreciation Awards for dedication and excellence. 🌿 Wellbeing & Resources Groups with guides, tools, and support. 🌿 Health & Wellness – Access to:
- Free eye tests & will writing services.
- Health Cash Plan (for you and dependents) covering:
- Optical/vision care
- Dental care
- Health screening
- Therapy treatments
On-Site Facilities & Perks
🚗 Free parking at all campuses. 🍽️ Refectories onsite. ✨ Gym & beauty services available.
Safeguarding & Equality Commitment
Safeguarding
✔ Activate Learning is committed to safeguarding and expects all staff to uphold this. ✔ DBS check will be required.
Diversity & Inclusion
✔ Applications are encouraged from all candidates who meet the criteria, regardless of background. ✔ Potential adjustments for interviews/DBS related to disabilities. ✔ Contact the Talent team for assistance during application/recruitment.
Recruitment Process
📣 Applicants should apply at the earliest opportunity. 📧 Application reviews and shortlisting are rolling basis. 🔒 Closed vacancies can no longer accept submissions.
⚠️ Important:
- No individual recruiters at Activate Learning may agree to agreements without the Talent Team’s consent.
- Mandatory health surveillance may apply for hazardous conditions.
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