Derby College Group apprentices complete landmark programme at Chester Zoo

Credit: DCG

Derby College Group has expressed collective delight in celebrating the graduation of its latest cohort of apprentices at Chester Zoo, following two years of immersive, industry-focused learning.

The achievement marks a significant milestone for the college’s land-based provision and underlines the transformative power of apprenticeships in growing the next generation of skilled animal care professionals.

The programme, now in its second cohort across four years of partnership with Chester Zoo, has produced outstanding results.

78% of apprentices achieved a Distinction in the practical element of their End Point Assessment, a testament to the quality of both the learning experience and the dedication of the apprentices themselves.

Throughout the programme, apprentices gained far more than classroom knowledge. They experienced international study trips to Uganda and Madagascar, attended leading sector conferences including those hosted by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) and Association of British and Irish Wild Animal Keepers (ABWAK).

They also contributed to major projects at the zoo, including the creation of the UK’s biggest ever zoo development, Heart of Africa, took on education placements, and played a key role in the celebrated wintertime ever, Lanterns and Light.

Most significantly, many of the cohort have now secured employment at Chester Zoo itself, demonstrating the real-world impact of a well-structured apprenticeship pathway. Derby College Group is particularly proud to see its apprentices transition seamlessly from training into careers within one of the country’s finest wildlife organisations.

Jon Collins, Vice Principal for Land-based Studies 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, said: “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.”

Derby College Group has offered 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 building on this valued partnership in the years ahead.