Zookeeper training opportunities vary greatly across Europe. While some countries have standardised formal qualifications, resources and standardised training opportunities are lacking in many other countries. This has resulted in a clear skills gap in professional zookeeping in many European countries.
The goal of the EPZQF project was to develop a European Professional Zookeeper Qualification Framework identifying the key competencies required to be a professional zookeeper working in an EU zoo, and to design several training modules to help staff reach the expected competency levels.
Please visit the EPZQF website for more information.
The first phase of the EPZQF project was coordinated by EAZA from 2015-2018, in partnership with several zoos, regional associations, and educational institutions.
Chester Zoo | United Kingdom | |
Romanian Zoo and Aquarium Federation | Romania | |
Zagreb Zoo | Croatia | |
Sparsholt College | United Kingdom | |
Kaunas Zoo | Lithuania | |
Wrocław Zoo | Poland | |
Aeres Groep | The Netherlands |
The European Professional Zookeeper Qualification Framework was co-funded by the European Union under the Erasmus+ programme.