Student placements
At WWT, we know that people are instrumental in our mission to restore wetlands. And you are the future conservationists who will lead the way.
Our student placements are designed to give you the experience and skills you need to take the next steps in your career. You’ll focus on:
- Practical, technical knowledge in your chosen field
- Experience of the workplace, enhancing your CV
- Wetland conservation.
You’ll receive a great quality learning experience that can be tracked and evidenced. Your warm and thorough induction will help you settle quickly. You’ll get to know the teams you are working with, WWT as whole and what we stand for, and what you can expect from your year with us. Training will depend on the job you are doing, and will stand you in good stead for the future. In return, we hope you’ll be as enthusiastic about the power of wetlands as we are.
We are delighted to announce that, for the first time, our student placements will be paid positions. We want everyone to have the chance to access these opportunities and are proud to be taking this step in the right direction.
Key details
- 37.5 hours per week
- Fixed term for 12 months starting in September.
- National Minimum Wage will be paid to the successful candidates, dependent on age.
What we offer
In return for your hard work and dedication, you’ll enjoy a wide range of benefits including:
- A comprehensive and hands on learning experience, focussing on subject specific skills as well as wetland conservation, and skills for the workplace
- 33 days annual leave, inclusive of Bank Holidays.
- Contributory pension scheme up to 7% (conditions apply)
- Life assurance providing 3 times annual salary
- Access to a wide range of resources to support your health and wellbeing, including our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
- Enhanced family friendly policies
- Cycle to work scheme
- Free entry to all our centres
How to apply
Applications for student placements for the 25 / 26 academic year are now closed.
Current placement vacancies
There are two types of student placements being offered for the 25/26 academic year as below.
Practical reserves placements
Practical Reserves Management placements develop an understanding of what it takes to manage a wetland for people and for wildlife. You’ll be hands on, working within the experienced and knowledgeable Reserves teams on site.
Living collections placements
Working within our Living Collections teams, you’ll develop practical animal care experience. You’ll be hands on in the day to day care of wetland animals and their habitats, helping to enhance the experiences of visitors and tell the important stories of wetland restoration.
Meet some of our previous student placements
- In this section