Perths Zoo's Vision is simple
A world where diversity of species and habitats are secure.
...and the Zoo's purpose is our purpose
To create a passion for wildlife, inspiring people to act for conservation and save species
The word ‘Docent’ is derived from the Latin word ‘docere’ which means to teach.
As part of the zoo community, Docents are enthusiastic, reliable people who through their expertise and outstanding customer service help achieve the Zoo’s objectives and mission.
Docents work as part of a valuable team, so it is vital we have volunteers who can be depended upon to fulfil their minimum two days per month. They require a good level of physical fitness as a docent’s duty day involves a lot of walking around the zoo assisting visitors. Ongoing Training is provided and required so that Docents are knowledgeable on a wide range of related topics and issues.
The PZDA Training Course
Trainee guides are chosen for their people skills, they must be dedicated, outgoing people who enjoy interacting with the public. The Perth Zoo Docent Training course is structured to help people to develop the communication skills and knowledge required to conduct tours and give talks to groups of people.
Although exhilarating and interesting, the course is intensive.
The 5 hour sessions run over 10 consecutive Saturdays and attendance is mandatory. At the end of the 10 weeks, those who have been successful are then on probation for another two months.
PZDA Information Day
Each year in April, the Docent Association holds a free 2 hour information morning at Perth Zoo to explain the role of Docents (zoo guides) and the duties they perform. The sessions include information and a 45 minute guided tour of Perth Zoo with one of the current Docents.
The next Orientation Information Day will be on Saturday April 1st 2023.
Please contact us for more information and to register your details at any time to applications@pzda.org.au
