Docent
What do Docents do?
The term Docent is typically given to those who guide and educate, usually on a voluntary basis, most commonly in zoos or museums. In Latin, Docent means 'to teach', and that is exactly what our Docents do!
If you are looking for an outdoors role, where you get to chat to other people, this could be just the one for you! Our docents love animals, but they love people more! You see, there is no animal husbandry in this role, so think of it more as a customer relations role. You'll get to engage with visitors of all ages, from all over the world. You'll need to be confident enough to chat with groups of people, but you may be pleased to know that there is no public speaking involved! We will only expect you to do what you feel comfortable doing. And you will not be just another face in a crowd; we all know each other here, so you'll be joining a group of like-minded friends!
A typical day might look like this:
- Engage with park visitors in the kangaroo exhibit, to answer any questions they may have and show them how to feed the roos
- Assist at the 'Meet the Wombat & Friends' by helping with photos or manning a station
- Help at Molly's Farm by supervising and answering questions
- Greet visitors to 'Meet the Koalas', give them directions and help with photos
- Giving information in the Reptile House, or anywhere else around the park
- Help park visitors to locate attractions and plan their day
The best things about being a CWP Docent:
- Be actively involved within a dynamic team of people who have similar interests
- Meet new people and build a network
- Keep your mind and body active
- Put your time to good use and feel useful within a hard-working team
- Build self-confidence
- Opportunity to educate future generations
- Learn and develop new & exciting skills
- Get to know Australia’s unique wildlife
How often can I work at CWP?
- We are open every day of the year, from 9.00am to 5.30pm – you can volunteer on any day that suits you
- We require a minimum commitment of either: 1 x weekly half-day shift OR 1 x fortnightly full-day shift. But like everything in life – the more you put into it, the more you’ll get out of it! So you are of course welcome to volunteer more if you wish
- The busier we are, the more help we need so we hope that our Docents will make themselves available to assist during holiday times
- Please consider carefully what your availability is like at various times of the year; volunteering isn’t just for now. But you are welcome to enjoy a holiday every now and then of course!
What training is involved?
- Training starts with some pre-course material that is done from the comfort of your couch! Once that is complete, you will be invited to attend a training workshop
- The workshop is usually conducted one-on-one, or in a small group - we believe in the personal touch!
- Training documentation is provided
What do I wear?
- A CWP polo shirt and hat is provided
- You provide your own full-length jeans/pants and closed-in, flat shoes (sneakers, work boots, etc)
Cost
$50 provides you with a polo shirt, hat, name badge, training file and training (This is a one-off, non-refundable payment and no further money will be required)
Have I got what it takes to be a CWP Docent?
- Are you a people-person who loves engaging with people? Bubbly personalities fit in best! This position is best suited to energetic and outgoing people who are confident and assertive. Although the quiet achievers can find a place here too!
- Whilst we wont require you to perform keeper talks, you will need to be comfortable talking to small groups of visitors.
- Are you reliable and able to commit to the shift requirement on a long-term basis?
- Are you prepared to make a serious commitment to the park? We expect the same level of dedication and professionalism from our volunteers as we do from our paid staff
- Are you aged 18 years or above?
- This position requires you to be able to work independently. If you require one-on-one assistance in the workplace, unfortunately this position wont be suited to you - we can not accommodate support workers.
How do I get started?
- Thank you for completing the online Application Form! We will be in touch!
- If you have any trouble completing the form, please email debbie@cavershamwildlife.com.au
I still have more questions...
No problem! Please feel free to contact Deb on 0417 947 396 or debbie@cavershamwildlife.com.au
