What is a Discovery and Learning Officer? What do they do, are they like teachers?

At RZSS, a Discovery and Learning Officer develops and delivers educational programmes (formal and informal) and develops and delivers public engagement activities at zoos and aquariums to  increase awareness of different animals and habitats, and share conservation stories. Their main role is to engage and hopefully educate the public about wildlife, habitats, conservation issues, and the importance of biodiversity through interactive exhibits, guided tours, and educational presentations.

Discovery and Learning Officers typically have a background in a related field such as biology, zoology and may have experience working with animals in a zoo or other wildlife organisations. Alternatively they may have a background in education, public engagement or science communication. They must be effective communicators, able to tailor their teaching to a range of different audiences, age and varying levels of interest. They must engage and inspire visitors in a fun, meaningful and educational way.

What do Discovery and Learning Officers do in the zoo?

Meet RZSS Discovery & Learning (or Education) Officer Jess, discover more about her role and her hopes for the future.

Sometimes Discovery and Learning Officers bring the zoo to you, this can be in the form of outreach. They can come to your school, college and even community group to talk about the work that they might be involved in. 

One such outreach programme that RZSS have be involved in is the Beyond the Panda education programme

The RZSS's China Mobile Library was part of the Beyond the Panda education programme providing panda boxes on loan, teacher training sessions, virtual and in-person outreach experiences.

RZSS runs and delivers courses that arms students with skills they can add to their CV. This type of course can set applicants above other students as it demonstrates commitment with additional knowledge. 

RZSS runs a Science Summer School which is a programme for 16-18 year olds introducing the role of a modern zoo through a week long course focusing on practical activities including enclosure design, animal behaviour observations, collection planning and zoo veterinary practices. Throughout the week, students will engage with a variety of specialists from the RZSS family. This culminates in a group presentation.

 

Click on the link and have a look at the RZSS Discovery and Learning Dept. and answer the questions below about the services that they provide. Is this the kind of job you would like?