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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.
Summer 2025 Placements
Dates: Friday 18th July – Saturday 6th September 2025
Hours: 8am–4pm or 9am–5pm
Shift patterns (minimum 10 days):
- Tuesdays-Saturdays
- Sundays-Thursdays
- Fridays-Tuesdays
- Saturdays & Sundays
You must be available for all days in your chosen block, including any bank holidays.
Christmas 2025 Placements
Details will be posted in late August/early September. Please check back then – we won’t be accepting applications before that time.
Ready to Apply?
Applications are now open for Summer 2025 placements.
Apply here
Term-Time Monday or Friday Placements
Available on either Mondays or Fridays (9am–5pm), for a minimum of 10 days over a set period.
You’ll need to attend consistently each week and be able to work independently.
Ready to Apply?
Applications are now open for 2025 placements.
Apply here
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.
