Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust Student Handbook 2015

Durrell students 2012

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Name: I joined Durrell on: I am working on: My line manager is: I can contact them on: The volunteer coordinator is:

Susie Brayshaw

I can contact them on:

01534 860045 or [email protected]

Welcome Thank you for choosing to complete you student placement at Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust. This handbook will explain a lot about the organisation, what you can expect from us and also what is expected from you. We aim to make this a valuable work experience for you and hopefully we will be able to provide you with some skills that you can carry forward into your career. Our aim is to make your experience at Durrell as meaningful as possible so you can then be an ambassador for the continuing essential conservation work undertaken by Durrell. Thank you in advance for all your hard work and we hope you will enjoy your time with us.

Susie Brayshaw Volunteer Manager

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Contents Section 1: Who we are

Page 5 - 17

Section 2: The Volunteer Agreement

19 - 22

1.1 A brief history of Durrell 1.2 Currently at Durrell 1.3 Student placements 1.4 Available departments 1.5 What you can expect from us 1.6 What we expect from you 1.7 The structure of Durrell 1.8 Useful phone numbers 1.9 Facilities and resources 1.9 Living in Jersey

5 5&6 7 7 - 11 11 12 13 & 14 14 15 15 - 17

2.1 Student hours 2.2 Uniform 2.3 Holidays 2.4 Sickness 2.5 Personal details and data protection 2.6 Security 2.7 Parking 2.8 Smoking 2.9 Drugs and alcohol 2.10 Criminal conduct reporting 2.11 Gambling 2.12 Immigration 2.13 Durrell brand and logo 2.14 References 2.15 If problems arise 2.16 Driving trust vehicles

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Section 3: Acknowledging your contribution 4.1 Keeping in touch 4.2 Visitor Centre and Dodo Café 4.3 Access to Durrell 4.4 Other activities

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Section 4: Signed Agreement

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Photo: James Morgan

“I spent 6 wonderful months as a student at Durrell working with the bats and marmosets in 2012. I had wanted to go to Durrell since I was a child as I had grown up reading Gerald Durrell’s books and he was an idol of mine from a very young age. I finally got the courage to go for my dream and when I was accepted for the placement I literally fell sideways in my chair in happiness and was unable to speak coherently for several minutes. So I had very high expectations of the place and it definitely did not disappoint! The staff and other students at Durrell were extremely welcoming and kind and were incredibly generous with their time. I had travelled as an international student from Australia and had very little practical experience in zoos but everyone at Durrell were brilliant in helping me to adjust and to learn and were always willing to give advice about the work, study, life on Jersey and anything else. I found everyone to be genuinely interested in caring for the animals and in sharing their knowledge and I honestly feel I learnt as much in six months there as I did in three years of my degree. I had so much fun at Durrell during my time there with the animals, the staff and the other students and it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”

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1. Who we are 1.1 A brief history of Durrell

Photo credit: James Morgan

The author and naturalist Gerald Durrell founded the Jersey Zoo in 1959. It became a Charitable Trust in 1963 and was renamed Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust in 1999, in honour of its founder. Gerald Durrell pioneered the concept that zoos have an essential role to play in the conservation of wildlife. His vision was of a safe haven for the world’s most endangered animals, where the public could learn about and engage with efforts required to save them. Gerald Durrell received the OBE for his work in 1983. He passed away in 1995, leaving behind a unique, powerful and enduring legacy in the field of biodiversity conservation.

Gerald Durrell with a young silky anteater Cyclopes didactylus.

Dr Lee Durrell succeeded her husband as Honorary Director of Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust in 1995, and still maintains an active and important involvement in the Trust's work, both in Jersey and overseas.

1.2 Currently at Durrell

Currently, the wildlife park in Jersey is home to 120 species of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians, some of which are allowed to roam free and others thrive in spacious, naturalistic enclosures. Notable among the mammals are families of Western Lowland gorillas, various monkeys and lemurs, Sumatran orangutans and fruit bats. In the Amphibian and Reptile Breeding Centre live some of the rarest creatures in the world, such as Komodo dragons and the mountain chicken.The bird department works with over 40 species of bird and has, over the years, worked on the recovery programs of many species. These include the pink pigeon, The mountain chicken bred in Jersey Madagascar teal, Waldrapp ibis, Meller's duck, and released on the Caribbean island Mauritius kestrel, Bali starling, Montserrat oriole, of Montserrat. Photo: Sarah-Louise Adams Durrell St. Lucian parrot and Echo parakeet. The wildlife park welcomes 175,000 visitors annually and the Durrell Training Academy, established in the early 1980s, now has approx. 4000 graduates from 135 different countries.

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In the field, conservation projects are being undertaken all over the world (see map below), with a focus on two integrated themes: • ‘Islands at Risk,’ as many of the most threatened species are found only in island ecosystems such as Montserrat and the Galapagos, and • ‘Critical Species,’ groups of species which have a high risk of extinction and for which Durrell can have the greatest positive impact, such as the Sumatran orangutans, pictured right.

Sumatran orangutans. Photo: Jon Stark Durrell

The location of current Durrell field programmes

The Red-billed Chough. Photo: Andrew Kelly

As well as work abroad, Durrell has undertaken research and/or recovery programmes in Jersey for red squirrels, farmland birds, green and wall lizards, Jersey toads and agile frogs, orchids and several species of wildflower. The most recent programme is the restoration of the red-billed chough (a type of crow, pictured left), which became extinct in Jersey in the early 1900s.

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1.3 Student Placements

At Durrell we run between 10 and 15 student placements at a time at our headquarters in Jersey. Students are un-paid and stay for a minimum of two months and a maximum of a year. During their stay they gain practical experience in the work of the Trust in the conservation and captive management of endangered species. Students are expected to help carry out everyday duties such as cleaning, and food preparation. They work closely with other students and keepers which gives them unique insight into animal management and the onsite contributions to global conservation. Students also work in our non-animal based departments learning with our marketing, education and landscape teams.

1.3.1 Requirements

 Applicants must be at least 18.  Applicants should be studying a relevant course. Ideally the placement will be a course requirement, if not you will be asked to supply a letter from your institution supporting the placement. Students must sign a placement agreement with Durrell.  A high degree of fitness is required as the work is physically demanding.  Any medical problems, allergies, disabilities etc. which may affect the student’s work must be explained at the application stage.  Must be able to commit to a minimum of two months.  Must be self-funding, and able to organize their own accommodation.  There is strong competition for placements so applications are assessed on their merits, and successful candidates should confirm their acceptance of a place as soon as possible.  A good command of English is essential.

1.4 Available departments

Students are assigned to placements within the zoo according to their course requirements and interests. Students spend at least two months on each department. Please understand that places in each department are limited and that it may not be possible to meet all requests. 1.4.1 Animal departments Spending time in the animal departments will enable students to gain first-hand experience of working with a variety of animal species. The role involves the following: o Assisting with routine tasks on section such as food preparation, enclosure cleaning, animal feeding, behavioural observations, enclosure maintenance and observing veterinary procedures. 7

o Opportunities to learn practical captive husbandry skills (nutritional requirements, environmental requirements, normal behaviour, reproductive management etc.) o Students will also learn about the biology and conservation issues relating to each species worked with. With all our animal departments the range of jobs students are allowed to do will depend on demonstrated skills and reliability, this will be reviewed throughout the placement. Students working on these departments will need good communication skills, a willingness to listen and learn, a keen interest in animal management, and confidence working around different animal species. (1)The Mammal Department The Mammal Department is divided into three sections: (1) apes (2) macaques, mongooses, bears and other South American mammal species (3) lemurs, bats, and tamarins. Students are normally assigned to only one mammal section during their stay. Students should also note that it is rarely possible to work on the ape section. If you are hoping to work on the mammal department you must have a rabies vaccination before you arrive. (2)The Bird Department

The bird department is roughly divided into two sections: (1) wetlands consisting of wildfowl, cranes, ibis, flamingos and parrots (2) soft bills comprises the passerines, pink pigeons, pheasants and hornbills. The department works with over 40 species of bird. Students can expect to be involved with routine work such as; feeding, food preparation and general upkeep of aviaries. There may be some restrictions on student access to aviaries, particularly during the breeding season. Time spent working in the bird department can give a 8

valuable insight into zoo work and the conservation management of birds in captivity. (3)The Herpetology Department The Herpetology department holds a diverse collection of amphibians and reptiles, as well as several invertebrate species. The department is actively involved in a number of conservation projects focusing on species from around the world. Students can expect to be involved with a variety of activities, including daily husbandry routines for some of the species in our collection (please note that there are restrictions on which species students can work directly with), general upkeep of enclosures, and other routine work essential to the day-to-day functioning of the Department. (4)The Veterinary Department The Veterinary department is staffed by two veterinarians, a microbiologist and a veterinary nurse. The department is responsible for the health of the animal collection in Jersey and in captive breeding programmes abroad. Our Veterinary department only takes 4th and 5th year students and graduates for work experience. Students will shadow the veterinary staff and will be involved in all aspects of health care from clinical and laboratory diagnosis to treatment, preventive medicine and anaesthetics. Students will be expected to carry out a short research project of benefit to the Trust, and because this adds and extra time commitment, preference will be given to students asking for longer placements. (5)The Laboratory Working in Durrell’s diagnostic lab involves participating in all aspects laboratory diagnosis performed in house for the Wildlife Park, and overseas conservation programmes. These will include: faecal and urine examination; parasitology; bacteriology and other ancillary tests; as well as learning how to run and

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maintain a diagnostic lab; health and safety requirements; and laboratory work routines. Depending on the skills and motivation of the candidate, the work will also involve gross post mortem examination and exotic animal haematology. 1.4.2 Non-animal departments We also offer opportunities in other departments within the Wildlife Park. These departments do not have direct contact with our animal collection, but instead do offer a unique insight into working for an international conservation charity. Any student wishing to work in the following departments should have excellent communication skills, a keen interest in wildlife conservation and be able to work well both as part of a team and independently. (1)Education and Interpretation department Students will work as part of the Visitor Experience/Conservation Education team, delivering wildlife conservation messages to school groups, members, and visitors to the wildlife park at Durrell's headquarters in Jersey. Students will help with the management of the Education department’s collection of reptiles and insects. Students will also have the opportunity to get involved with developing signage, and delivering animal talks to the visiting public, as well as getting involved with curriculum-based sessions for school groups, and informal workshops for the younger members of the Trust. They will have the chance to get involved with visitor surveys etc. for a public participation project to develop new interpretation materials for the site. (2)The Marketing Department Students will work as part of the marketing team where they will have the opportunity to get involved in the following areas:  PR and marketing campaigns.  Managing Durrell’s website and assisting with social media tools.  Be involved in market research and learn how Durrell’s conservation work can be effectively communicated to appropriate target audiences.  Help with Durrell’s fundraising events.

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1.4.3 Research projects Students are given the opportunity to carry out a research project during their placement. Some students may also come to Durrell purely to conduct research. Please note that any projects carried out must be approved by Durrell staff. If you are required by your university to undertake a research project during your time here, please inform us before you arrive. We ask all students to conduct a research project (be it big or small) during their time at Durrell, for this you will receive support and guidance from our research coordinator and Durrell staff. You may wish to develop your own project; we are happy to consider individual project proposals but in these cases Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust is under no obligation to mentor projects.

1.4 What you can expect from us

You are important to us so we want to make sure that you enjoy your placement, and get the most out of it. As part of our commitment to our students we will:  Give each students a clear induction introducing the student to Durrell.  Ensure you have a clear idea of your responsibilities, including the length of time we’d like you to be with a department.  Give you information about the training and support available to help you develop and carry out your role.  Offer you fair, honest and timely feedback on your work and development.  Always treat you with respect, consideration and appreciation The Trust will endeavor to organise an appropriate programme of work experience for placement students in order to ensure that each student receives a wide-ranging education in captive animal management and conservation. Where time allows, Durrell staff will provide guidance and support to students undertaking a research project during their placement. The volunteer manager will also undertake to provide any assessments of students’ work required by their university or college

1.5 What we expect from you

To ensure you get the most out of your placement we ask that you adhere to the following:  Act in a professional way whenever you represent Durrell and to work to

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     

the same standards as permanent staff Ask for guidance if you don’t fully understand your role or responsibilities Read and adhere to the Student Agreement, outlined in Section 2 Be aware of, and comply with, all procedures and policies in Section 3 The Trust requires a copy of any publications, reports, articles, dissertations, etc., which are competed from your work conducted here. In general terms we expect that you will be punctual and fulfil the duties assigned to you to the best of your ability. Courtesy to fellow students volunteers and staff members is also expected and we expect you to treat others as you would hope to be treated yourself. Bullying in any form is not tolerated by Durrell – this includes excluding other students. If an allegation of bullying is made the same procedures will be followed as we would for permanent staff members and if deemed necessary, the placement will be terminated.

Galapagos giant tortoise. Photo: Georgina Sawyer

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1.6 The structure of Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust HRH The Princess Royal, Patron The young Princess Anne visited Jersey Zoo in 1972 and was shown around by Gerald Durrell, who introduced her to the staff, the animals and the concepts he was pioneering. She agreed to become Patron of the Trust and has fulfilled that role admirably ever since. Lee Durrell, Honorary Director Lee McGeorge gained a PhD in zoology from Duke University for her studies in Madagascar. Marrying Gerald Durrell in 1979, she embraced the Trust’s mission wholeheartedly. As he wished, she succeeded him as Honorary Director, receiving the MBE for biodiversity conservation in 2011. Trustees and supporters The Trust is governed by a Board of 12 Trustees, of which 11 are elected by the Trust’s Members, the Honorary Director having a permanent place on the Board. There are 12,000 Members, mostly from Jersey and the UK, with about 1,000 from the rest of the world. Early supporters included Gerald Durrell’s friends in the field of entertainment, such as Peter Bull, Noel Coward, David Niven, Jimmy Stewart and Mai Zetterling, as well as Sir Peter Scott. Well known supporters today include Sir David Attenborough, John Cleese and Graeme Le Saux. Organisational structure The Trust is led by the Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Johnson, supported by a senior management team comprising of the heads of eight main departments: Animal Collection, Conservation, Conservation Science, Training and Education, Marketing, Fundraising, Accounts and Human Resources (HR). These functions are supported by about 150 other staff, both in Jersey and overseas, as well as a stalwart body of students and volunteers. Students Students come to Durrell either during the summer between University or as a sandwich year between 2nd and 3rd year. During placements, students learn about conservation, breeding programmes and captive animal management. Volunteers Volunteers aid and support staff in daily tasks. We have regular volunteers coming to Durrell weekly or daily, and irregular volunteers who only come when asked for a specific task. These volunteers free up time on departments so that other often more important tasks can be completed. They also help out with events that would otherwise be very difficult to plan and sustain. 13

Partners The Trust enters into many formal agreements worldwide, to better meet the enormous challenges of its mission. Partners include universities, zoos, governments of countries where the Trust runs conservation programmes and non-governmental organisations in those countries and elsewhere. Donors The Trust receives donations from many quarters: from children who pay a modest sum to adopt an animal at the wildlife park, to foundations granting funds to support specific projects and benefactors who give during their lifetimes or in legacies. Durrell’s Army The phrase “Durrell’s Army” was coined to describe the body of graduates of the Academy, but it has come to mean everyone who helps Durrell carry out its mission of saving species from extinction: Trustees, Members, supporters, staff, volunteers, partners and donors, as well as Durrell Conservation Academy graduates.

1.7 Useful phone numbers 01534 860+ 071 033 043 07797811616 042 044 777 028 065 070 031

Admissions desk Ann Thomasson / Lab Bird kitchen Duty Security mobile Education/PRP Eluned Price / Research Emergency First impressions/Bears Fundraising Gorilla complex Human Resources

064 068 / 016 081 015 024 066 021 027 039 071 / 008 045

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Landscape department Mammal office Marketing Memberships Orang kitchen Reptile kitchen Shop Stores Vet centre Visitor Centre/front of house Volunteer Manager

1.8 Facilities and resources 1.8.1 Reference Material, Library Facilities and Computer Facilities

Durrell’s main library facilities and computer facilities are at the International Training Centre, Les Noyers, next door to the Wildlife Park. The Sir William Collins Memorial Library comprises a collection of scientific periodicals and journals. The Phillips Reference Library holds a collection of books, and special bibliographic files (on species, habitats, etc). Loans from these collections may be possible for placement students, by arrangement with the library supervisor. There is a computer lab equipped with 20 computers running Windows XP. They are networked with internet connection, Office 2003 and a range of specialist software relevant to conservation. Free WiFi is also available. Limited quantities of photocopying can be undertaken in the Trust’s main office. A charge may be made for large quantities.

1.8.2 Animal Records System

Since 1990, the Trust has maintained a computerised records system using ARKS (Animal Record Keeping System) and more recently ZIMS (Zoological Information Managing System). Up-to-date information is readily available on individual animals in the collection. Information from before 1990 is on cards, which can be inspected by arrangement.

1.9 Living in Jersey 1.9.1 Accommodation

There are bed and breakfasts and guest houses located nearby. Others are located further away and some form of transport is necessary. An accommodation list is provided on acceptance. There is heavy demand for places, and so booking well in advance is essential. You are responsible for organising your accommodation. If you are 15

experiencing difficulties it is sometime possible to provide advice where necessary. Please be aware that Jersey does not have an open rental market so non-Jersey residents can only rent ‘non-qualified’ properties. For further information on this please see the States of Jersey website www.gov.je.

1.9.2 Cost of living

While some costs are lower in Jersey than on the mainland, basics tend to be slightly more expensive. Rents are quite high, and you can expect to spend at least £80-£120 a week in rent depending on the size and facilities.

1.9.3 Health and security

Whilst all reasonable precautions are taken to ensure safety and security, the Trust cannot accept responsibility for any loss, injury or illness however caused. Anyone working in zoo grounds is covered for general accident by the zoo’s own insurance. Belongings should be insured by the student. A tetanus injection should be obtained well in advance of arrival. If you are working on the mammal department a rabies vaccination is also necessary. If you are from the UK Jersey has a reciprocal health agreement with the UK, which means that you're treated like a local resident while you're here. If you're visiting Jersey from the UK, it means that you're entitled to free hospital treatment while you're here. Emergency care and hospital care is free, but if you need to see a GP (doctor) then you must pay (doctor visits are not free in Jersey). A link to a list of local GPs can be found at http://www.gov.je/Health/Travelling/Pages/VisitingJersey.aspx Students from other countries You can find more information at: http://www.gov.je/Health/Travelling/Pages/OtherCountries.aspx

1.9.4 Visas

Visas may be required for some nationalities and students should check this before applying. Visa arrangements should be made before the placement is confirmed. Students should provide a copy of their visa at induction.

1.9.5 Travel arrangements and local transport

There are direct flights between Jersey and most regional airports in the United Kingdom, and from some regional airports on the continent. There are also regular sea services by ferry and high-speed catamaran from the south coast of England, to St Malo and Dinard in France, and to the other Channel Islands. 16

As Jersey attracts a large number of tourists in the main summer season, reservations should be made well in advance at this time of year. Taxis are available from all ports of entry, and a bus service from St Helier, the main town. Durrell is situated in the north-eastern part of the island, i.e. about 5 miles (8 km) north of St Helier and the docks, and about 10 miles north-east of the airport. Bus services to all other parts of the island are linked through St Helier, although there is a limited evening service.

You may also find useful information on living in Jersey at www.jtinsight.com and www.jersey.com

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Students helping to build our bat enclosure

Students collecting cans for our “cans for corridors” project at Jersey Live

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2. Student Agreement As a student it is important that you read and understand the student agreement outlined below.

2.1 Student hours

Students work a full-time, five-day week (animal departments: 0800-1700 hr in winter and 0800-1730 hr in summer).  Days off are scheduled by the appropriate Department Head, and these may not include weekends.  Students may also occasionally be asked to work with permanent staff outside normal working hours if necessary. 

2.2 Uniform

As a student at Durrell, you’re an ambassador for the organisation. You’re responsible for presenting a positive image to visitors and the community and as such are expected to be neat and tidy at all times. We provide students with Durrell branded t-shirts and a jumper on arrival. If additional Durrell branded items are required, they can be purchased from the volunteer manager.

Narrow striped mongoose Photo: James Morgan

For work, you should bring sensible clothing (long trousers for winter, shorts if desired in the summer) and sturdy footwear (e.g. walking boots).

2.3 Holidays

 A minimum of two weeks advance notice, and preferably more, must be given of holiday time.  We ask that Students take the same amount of holiday as staff, in order to get the most from their placement, which is 23 days for 12 months plus bank holidays entitlement.

2.4 Sickness

 If you are unfortunately unwell and unable to attend your placement then please telephone you department before 9 a.m. on the morning you are ill. If you receive no answer from your department then please telephone the visitor centre (01534 860071). It is important to ensure that Durrell is informed of your absence.

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 If students repeatedly fail to notify the department of an absence they may be asked to leave the programme.  It is also your responsibility to keep us informed regarding you absence from the placement and regular updates are appreciated.  Students with active cold sores, stomach bugs or other contagious conditions should not help in the primate departments until recovered.

2.5 Personal Details and data protection

Please keep the volunteer manager informed of changes to personal details, including changes in name, address, telephone numbers, next of kin and doctor. Durrell is registered in accordance with, and is required to comply with, data protection legislation. In addition, Durrell adopts a "best practice" policy in relation to all personal data. Under data protection law, Durrell is required to specify the purposes for which it will use the personal data relating to students. Durrell will only use this data for legitimate purposes which include:  complying with obligations to students;  general administration;  complying with our obligations under the general law  the prosecution or defence of any legal proceedings;  assessing students, their performance and suitability for particular roles;  doing anything for the benefit of welfare of the student, their families and dependents.

2.6 Security

The grounds are checked on a nightly basis and a report is produced detailing any risks pertaining to windows, doors, gates, lights and heating. All students are asked to be security conscious and do everything possible to reduce risks to Durrell property and our neighbours.

2.7 Parking

In the summer months the main Visitor car park is often congested so during this period students are asked to park in the Staff car park.

2.8 Smoking

Smoking is prohibited throughout the entire workplace, except for one designated area behind the Manor House.

2.9 Drugs and Alcohol

Durrell's intention is to provide employees and students with a drug-free workplace. The manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of an illegal drug on Durrell premises or while conducting Durrell business is prohibited as is working under the influence of an illegal drug. In addition,

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Durrell strictly limits the consumption or serving of alcoholic beverages in the park. This is to ensure a safe and professional work environment for our employees and students as well as our customers and guests. Any exceptions to this policy must receive prior approval from the CEO.

2.10 Criminal Conduct Reporting

If students have knowledge or suspicion of dishonesty or criminal conduct which may affect Durrell, be it by an employee, volunteer or student, you must report the matter immediately to HR. Students are asked to advise HR if they have been arrested, summoned to appear in court or at a parish hall enquiry or if they are convicted of any offence. This information will be treated in confidence.

2.11 Gambling

Students are not permitted to take part in gambling or betting when on Durrell premises and cannot act as a betting agent, tipster or tipster’s agent.

2.12 Immigration

All students completing placements at Durrell for longer than 3 months must provide a copy of their registration card. This is required by the population office. Registration cards should be obtained from the social security office on arrival. For more information go to: http://www.gov.je/Working/Contributions/RegistrationCards

Sunda wrinkled hornbill Photo: Gregory Guida

Social Security Department: La Motte Street, St Helier, Jersey, JE4 8PE, 01534 445505.

2.13 Durrell Brand and Logo

The Durrell brand is vital to the perception of the Trust and carries huge value. It is not just the logo but a combination of all elements that Durrell uses to identify the products and services that it offers, and can be seen throughout Durrell on promotional literature, media adverts, employee uniforms, vehicle livery and on our stationary. Durrell's identity is one of its most valuable assets and supporting its identity is crucial to demonstrating and conveying our mission.

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The Durrell brand image should be reflected in the attitudes and behaviour of all employees and students. If a copy of the logo is required, please contact the Head of Marketing. This is to ensure that the brand and logo are reproduced correctly and being used to the benefit of Durrell. Students should not wear Durrell branded uniform outside of the wildlife park if activities may be construed as detrimental to Durrell’s public image.

2.14 References

In accordance with Durrell policy on representation, students/employees are not permitted to provide a reference or any other form of testimony for an employee, student or volunteer that concerns his or her employment or association with Durrell. Such references are prepared by HR in consultation with the Line Manager. References supplied by HR will provide factual information such as length of assistance, role and responsibilities. If a volunteer/employee would like to provide further information this must be in the form of a personal reference, and should only include your personal opinion and not that of Durrell.

2.15 If problems arise

If any problems should arise that are directly related to your work at Durrell then please see your department supervisor or the volunteer manager. It is important to seek help as soon as an issue arises to prevent it becoming overwhelming. Durrell are not directly responsible for other problems you may experience during your time in Jersey, such as issues with accommodation, but we can offer advice and support when appropriate. Please remember many staff and students have been in the same position as you and will have experienced some settling in problems. If you encounter a difficulty with any aspect of your role, please talk to the volunteer manager or your line manager as soon as possible for advice and support. We have a problems form which should be completed if any issues or complaints arise.

2.15 Driving Trust vehicles

If it is necessary for your role to drive any of the Trust vehicles you must:  Have a valid driving licence.  Complete a driving test with a member of staff.

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I was a student on the bird department for a year. It is a fantastic place to work and all of the people on the Bird department (as with the whole of Durrell) are fantastic.

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3. Acknowledging your contribution To show our appreciation for your help during your placement we organise the following benefits:

4.1 Keeping in touch

As a student with Durrell we want to keep you in the loop. We provide weekly updates on the park and organise talks and lectures to further your understanding of Durrell and the conservation work we do.

Pied tamarin Photo: Gregory Guida

These are sent out via email so to help you keep in touch please make sure to supply us with an up to date email address. We also organise regular coffee mornings for students and volunteers as well as an ice breaker to socialise with other students and meet Durrell staff.

4.2 Access to Durrell

Students will receive a Durrell pass for the duration of their placement. This will allow you free access to the park during your stay.

4.3 Visitor Centre and Dodo Café

Students receive a 30% discount on items purchased at the Visitor Centre and the Dodo Café when on duty. Unfortunately this privilege cannot be extended to guests.

4.4 Other Activities

The Trust frequently hosts visiting scientists and conservationists, many of whom give talks during their stay. Trust staff also give talks on their own work and organise discussion sessions on topics of interest. Students are encouraged to attend any of these activities.

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I did a six month placement with Durrell in 2011 on the mammal section, I loved it and it has definitely helped me on my current job at a UK zoo as the sun bear keeper.

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4. Signed Agreement

We require a formal record that you have read, understood and agree with the following documents: 1.

Section 2 - The Student Agreement

2.

Section 3 - Policies and procedures

Name: …………………………………………………..…………(Please print)

Signed:……………………………………………………………………………

Date:……………………………………………………………………………… Please detach and return this page with your personal details form and a copy of your registration card to the volunteer manager.

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