Designed for Primary Students in Years 3-6 the Junior Zoo Keeper Program, delves into the nitty gritty, and often dirty side of caring for animals.

The Junior Zoo Keeper program runs February to November and comprises seven 3-hour sessions and two special events. Build on the knowledge from previous sessions to gain an in-depth view of animal husbandry, the role of a Zoo Keeper and the wider impacts of conservation work occurring in the world.

With two special events included in the year’s membership, Junior Zoo Keepers have the chance to make a difference with our Conservation Celebration Days, and get the opportunity to see the zoo as night falls during our evening retreats.

As part of their membership, Junior Zoo Keepers receive

• JZK branded Name Badge, Hat & T-shirt.
• 7 x 3hr sessions throughout the year.
• Unlimited entry to the zoo on presentation of their JZK membership card.
• Free entry for an extra adult (or child) on our Conservation Celebration day. Held in July, our Conservation Celebration day invites family and friends to the zoo to share in their children's’ newfound knowledge. Junior Zoo Keepers run stalls, present talks or create enrichment for their family & friends to enjoy with the animals.
• Special 'Night In'. Experience the magic of the zoo after hours when everyone else goes home!

Activities vary depending on the needs of the zoo and animals, but may include:

• Watching from an elevated platform while giraffes play with a toy you’ve made.
• Seeing meerkats race out to eat the food you’ve freshly prepared.
• Playing the training game with our fallow deer – or even your teammates!
• Rubbing moisturising mud on a White Rhino.
• Conducting water condition surveys throughout the zoo.
• Identifying various plants and their value in animal diets.
• Creating conservation displays to increase public awareness.
• Digging into the history of animals, evolution and fossilised remains.
• Feeling the vibrations of a big cat’s roar as it races to devour breakfast.
• Hand feeding some of our cutest native animals.
• Handling of various (friendly) reptiles

Important Booking Notes

May Start sessions receive 5 sessions and a 9 month membership. This is reflected in the Program price dropping from $620 to $495.

When booking your start date please keep in mind that will become your regular session time for the duration of the year. For example, if you book Saturday 8:30am-11:30am you will be in the Saturday morning session for the rest of the year. Dates are shown in the photo selection.
Time changes apply for the Conservation Celebration Day and the Night Out and are listed on the itinerary.