Northumberland College
Deputy Head Keeper
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Deputy Head Keeper
Zoo
Location: Northumberland
Salary: £27,189 per annum pro rata
Post Type: Part Time
Hours per Week: 18.5
Contract Type: Permanent
Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Tuesday 18 August 2026
Reference: 0409-26-R
About The College
Kirkley Hall Campus is Northumberland College’s second largest site and a centre of excellence for land-based, animal and outdoor education. Part of Education Partnership North East - the top performing college group in the North East for the third year running*, Kirkley Hall offers a unique and inspiring environment.
Set within 400 acres of stunning Northumberland countryside, and as the top performing land-based college nationally*, the campus provides access to specialist, industry-standard facilities that support practical, hands-on learning.
Our on-site residential provision was rated Outstanding by Ofsted in 2025, enabling students from across the UK to take advantage of the exceptional opportunities available here.
Please see the following link to our 2024 Ofsted Report, in which EPNE was graded as being Outstanding across all areas - Ofsted-Report-Outstanding
Our Journey & Values
As an employer, we prioritise cultivating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, where our staff can thrive and grow. We recognize that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are deeply committed to investing in their professional development and overall wellbeing.
About The Candidate
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As Deputy Head Keeper you will be part of the Management team here at Northumberland college zoo contributing to both the commercial and curriculum offer we provide here while placing welfare at the heart of all we do.
About The Role
This role will see you day to day maintain and look after the species in our care while ensuring our learners and guests have the best experience.
Role Responsibilities
- Manage, drive forward and maintain one of the sections here at the zoo
- Contribute and support the Head Keeper with our welfare strategy
- Deputise on a weekend rotation and holidays as duty manager overseeing the commercial side of the zoo
Qualifications
- Level 3 or above in animal Related Qualification
Essential Skills & Experience
- At least 1 years experience of working in a commercial animal business.
- At least one years experience in a paid environment working with young adults and children
Desirable Skills & Experience – (Optional)
- Supervising small team of staffing a day to day basis
What’s in it for you?
Join EPNE and you’ll be part of a culture that prioritises your development and wellbeing, which is why all employees receive an extensive benefits package.
- Enjoy a generous holiday allowance ranging between 35-48 days per year, plus public holidays - (Excluding Term Time Only contracts)
- Generous family leave and flexible working options (dependent on role)
- LGPS or Teacher Pensions Scheme - depending on role
- Access to myLifestyle benefits platform providing retail discounts and more.
- We offer dental, eye care & health cash plans.
- Extensive wellbeing support through a digital Wellbeing Hub that offers a broad range of support for physical, mental, and financial wellbeing.
- Free parking on most campuses.
- Free Gym access available at Bede Campus
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Our Commitment to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion
At Education Partnership North East (EPNE), we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences. We know that diverse perspectives strengthen our teams to enhance the education and support we provide to our learners and communities.
We recognise that talented individuals may not always follow a traditional career path and may hesitate to apply unless they meet every requirement. If you are excited about the role and believe you can make a positive contribution, we encourage you to apply.
As a Disability Confident Employer and Armed Forces Covenant Member, and with Ofsted Outstanding status across all campuses, we are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive, and high-performing environment where everyone can thrive.
Due to the nature of this post, you will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure Check.
We believe in equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
We are committed to PREVENT and safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.
Further details:
Job Description
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