Working with Wildlife (14-19yr olds)
August 2, 2027 @ 10:00 am – August 4, 2027 @ 3:00 pm
Are you passionate about British wildlife and curious about what happens behind the scenes at a wildlife rescue centre?
This three-day course at Secret World Wildlife Rescue offers a unique opportunity for young people aged fourteen to nineteen to explore the fascinating world of wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and release.
Secret World is a respected source of expertise and a centre of excellence for the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of British wildlife. Each year, we share our knowledge with thousands of people, from veterinary professionals and students to wildlife enthusiasts. This dedicated course for young people provides an introduction to caring for wild animals and understanding the challenges they face in the modern world.
Whether you are considering a career in ecology, conservation, animal care, or veterinary science, this course is designed to inspire and equip you with practical knowledge and skills.
Course Overview
The Wildlife Course for Young People runs over three days, combining talks, demonstrations, and practical sessions. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the work of wildlife rehabilitators, explore the ethical and welfare considerations of rescue work, and learn how they can contribute to protecting British wildlife.
Each day focuses on a different theme:
Day 1 – Introduction to Treating British Wildlife
Why do we treat British wildlife?
Health, safety, and biosecurity
Rescue equipment demonstration
Lecture on safe animal handling
An introductory day exploring why wildlife rescue matters, how rehabilitation centres operate, and the safety measures that keep both people and animals protected. Participants will get hands-on experience using real rescue equipment and gain insight into the first steps of animal care.
Day 2 – Caring for and Treating British Wildlife
Assessment and first aid practical (using cadavers)
Caring for young animals lecture
Caring for adult birds lecture
Caring for adult mammals lecture
This day delves into the care process, from initial treatment and first aid through to specialist care for different species. Participants will take part in a first aid practical, learning about safe handling techniques and how wildlife professionals assess and stabilise patients.
Day 3 – Ready for Release
Wildlife rehabilitation principles
Soft and hard release techniques
Post-release monitoring
Tour of our facilities (interactive displays and state-of-the-art facilities)
Careers session
The final day explores what happens when animals are ready to return to the wild. Participants will learn about different release methods, how we monitor success, and the challenges of reintroduction. The session concludes with a guided tour of our hospital facilities and a careers discussion, offering valuable advice for those interested in working with animals or in conservation.
All attendees will receive a certificate in SWWR Working with Wildlife and a copy of our book ‘Introduction to Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation’ to support further learning.
Course Tutors:
George Bethell, Head of Education and Public Relations
- Lauren Valentine, Wildlife Care and Veterinary Services Manager
Richard Saunders, Secret World Wildlife Rescue Veterinary Surgeon
Refreshments: Participants should bring a packed lunch.
Accommodation:
For those travelling from further afield, we have compiled a list of
Accommodation options near Secret World Wildlife Rescue
Important Information
Secret World is a working wildlife hospital and registered veterinary practice. For animal welfare reasons, there will be no direct contact with the wild animals in our care during your visit. This ensures both the safety of visitors and the highest standards of welfare for our patients.
