It’s National Apprenticeship Week (March 9 to 13) and at DZG we’ve plenty to celebrate.
We know the importance of apprentices they’ve been an integral part of our workforce since Dudley Zoo opened its doors in 1937 and 78 years on we’re continuing to mentor and train local workers across all departments of our business.

He said: “Training is very much at the heart of what we do, there is always a wealth of experience to hand on site at any time to pass on and share with apprentices; it’s a very worthwhile, tried and trusted model at DZG.
“Teamwork is pivotal to our success and we’re very proud to be constantly developing a workforce that will help the business go from strength to strength, guaranteeing a strong, long future for a much-loved tourist attraction.”
MEET OUR APPRENTICES . . .
Curator Matt Lewis, who has more than 20 years’ DZG?experience to share with apprentice keepers (from left) Ellis Robinson, Leigha Tedd, Danielle Partridge, and Ryan Clarke.
ELLIS ROBINSON
Animal loving Ellis was studying health and social care at college, but signed up for a new challenge after discovering details of the apprentice scheme.
The 18-year-old, from Lower Gornal, said: “I always knew I really wanted to work with animals. The days consist of cleaning out and feeding the animals and interacting with members of the public and Keeper for a Day sessions with the tapirs.
“I really enjoy it and I would love to get a job working at the zoo at the end of it.”
LEIGHA TEDD
Seventeen-year-old Leigha Tedd, from Darlaston, was studying NVQ Level 2 Animal Care