Northumberland College
Deputy Head Keeper
How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
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 BST on Wednesday 08 July 2026
Reference:
0409-26
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 (EPNE)—recognised as 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 supporting practical, hands-on learning. Our on-site residential provision was rated Outstanding by Ofsted in 2025, enabling students from across the UK to benefit from the exceptional opportunities available here.
For details, see the 2024 Ofsted Report (Ensuring EPNE was Graded Outstanding across all areas.
Our Journey & Values
At EPNE, we prioritise fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture where staff can thrive. Our most valuable asset is our people, and we are committed to investing in their professional development and wellbeing.
Reasons to use Rodeo
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
It searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
About The Candidate
As Deputy Head Keeper, you will join our Management team at Northumberland College Zoo, contributing to both the commercial and curriculum offerings while ensuring animal welfare remains at the heart of all operations.
About The Role
This role involves day-to-day maintenance and care of the species held here while ensuring learners and guests have the best possible experience.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage, drive forward, and maintain one of the zoo’s sections
- Support the Head Keeper in developing and implementing welfare strategies
- Deputise on a weekend rotation and during holidays as duty manager, overseeing the commercial side of operations
Qualifications & Experience
Essential
- A Level 3 or above animal-related qualification
Essential Skills & Experience
- At least 1 year’s experience working in a commercial animal business
- At least 1 year’s experience working with young adults and children in a paid environment
Desirable Skills & Experience (Optional)
- Experience supervising small teams of staff on a day-to-day basis
What’s in it for You?
Joining EPNE ensures you become part of a workplace that prioritises growth and wellbeing. Here’s what the role offers:
- Generous holiday allowance: 35-48 days per year, plus public holidays (excluding Term Time Only contracts)
- Flexible working options, family leave entitlements (dependent on role)
- Access to the LGPS (Local Government Pension Scheme) or Teacher’s Pensions Scheme (selection dependent on role)
- myLifestyle benefits platform, offering exclusive retail discounts
- Dental, eye care & health cash plans
- Extensive wellbeing support via a digital Wellbeing Hub covering:
- Physical
- Mental
- Financial wellbeing
- Free parking on most campuses
- Free gym access available at Bede Campus
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equality & Inclusion
At EPNE, we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences. We recognise that not everyone may fit every qualification, and we urge interested candidates to apply if they feel suited for the role.
As a Disability Confident Employer and Armed Forces Covenant Member, as well as maintaining Ofsted Outstanding status, we strive to create an inclusive, supportive and high-performing environment where everyone can thrive.
Key Considerations
- Enhanced Disclosure Check will be required for all candidates.
- Equal opportunities are strongly encouraged.
- We adhere to PREVENT and safeguarding policies, ensuring the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.
For further details, please refer to the full Job Description. To apply, email your details to the provided contact address.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills