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Work Experience at Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital
Each year, we care for over 13,000 injured and orphaned animals, from tiny hedgehogs to majestic birds of prey. Whether you’re hoping to start a career in animal care or enhance your existing studies, this is a unique chance to learn in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.
What You’ll Be Doing
Our placements are non-clinical and focused on animal husbandry. You’ll be a vital part of our daily care team, involved in tasks such as:
- Cleaning enclosures and housing
- Preparing and providing food for a variety of species
- Assisting with safe animal handling (where appropriate)
- Helping with enclosure maintenance (e.g. weeding, painting)
- Supporting deliveries of food and supplies
This is a physical, outdoor-indoor role — perfect for someone who isn’t afraid to get stuck in and work hard for a great cause.
Please Note
• As a charity, Tiggywinkles cannot offer clinical/veterinary placements, and does not provide accommodation or travel expenses. • All placements are subject to health, safety, and professional behaviour expectations
Who can apply?
We welcome applicants who:
- Are ideally already enrolled in an animal-related training course
- Are aged 16 or over
- Can work independently
- Have up-to-date tetanus cover
- Are physically fit and prepared for all-weather working
What to Wear
To ensure safety and hygiene, all work experience students must wear:
- Dark-coloured, hard-wearing trousers (not leggings or tracksuits)
- Plain, dark T-shirts or sweatshirts (no sleeveless tops)
- Sturdy boots (wellies recommended for wet conditions)
- Hair tied back, no jewellery, and dark-coloured waterproofs when working outdoors
No known allergies to animals, animal feed (including nuts), or latex.
Term-Time Placements
We currently offer Work Experience placements for one day a week (9am-5pm) on Mondays, Tuesdays or Fridays.
Please note: We require a minimum of 10 days commitment to our charity.
Ready to apply?
2026 Placements
Please note: You must have access to transport to get here, and be available for all days in your chosen block, including any Bank Holidays
Easter Placements are now full
Please check back in April for details of our Summer placements.
Become a Tiggywinkles member
Would you like to make a real difference for wildlife?
Tiggywinkles relies entirely on the generosity of people like you — we receive no government funding and no financial support from other animal welfare or conservation groups. Our vital work is made possible by our amazing members and kind-hearted donors.
By becoming a member, you’ll be directly supporting the care and rehabilitation of thousands of sick and injured wild animals each year. Join us today and help save wildlife lives.
