Zookeeper Apprentice Program

This is the first level in a four-part program for teens at Sedgwick County Zoo. All students 14 years and older will start in Level 1, learning about basic animal husbandry as well as how zoos work. ZAP students will learn what it takes to be a zookeeper by working alongside keepers in our Farms as well as assisting with ZAP special programs. This is a competitive program. Students are evaluated at the end of each session to determine eligibility in ZAP Level 2. If a student is 15 or older, and there is space a Level 2 session, they may be invited to move forward in the same year.

This program runs Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – noon for two weeks.

 

Ticket sales for the Zookeeper Apprentice Program end on Friday at 1 PM before your chosen class begins on Monday.

To register, click the appropriate link below, select your start date and add class to your cart.

• Monday, June 7 – Friday, June 18
• Monday, June 21 – Friday, July 2
• Monday, July 5 – Friday, July 16
• Monday, July 19 – Friday, July 30

Member Registration  Non-Member Registration

 

With a guardian and before their scheduled session, each registered student must view an orientation video. A link to the video will be provided in an informational email once registration is complete.  The email will be sent to you from the education department and is separate from your payment confirmation and program ticket. The information email will also include all paperwork that must be filled out prior to the beginning of the session. Students must bring this paperwork with them on the first day of class in order to participate.

Students who fail to bring their paperwork or who have not yet watched the orientation video will be charged a $15 individual orientation fee. Students may not begin participation in class until they have watched the orientation video and submitted all paperwork. Students will not make up class time missed for their individual orientation session.

Face masks will be required for all students for the duration of the program. Students should bring a water bottle with their name on it as there is currently no access to water fountains in the zoo. Students will be dropped off and picked up outside the Cargill Learning Center. Students will be asked to complete a short wellness questionnaire and temperature check prior to entering class.

Each person who attends class must have a ticket. Space is limited. Tickets will be scanned at the door on the first day of class. All classes take place rain or shine. All reservations are final. Tickets may not be copied or resold and may be used only once. No cancellations, refunds, rain checks, or exchanges; tickets will not be replaced if lost, stolen or unused.