Animal Care Technician

Briarwood School is seeking an enthusiastic, skilled and compassionate Animal Technician to lead the development and day-to-day operation of our exciting educational urban farm. Briarwood has a dedicated team of staff, governors and parents/carers who are proud to support 167, rising to 233 in September 2026, children and young people aged 3 to 19 years and are passionate about their progress, happiness and care. This is a unique opportunity to combine your passion for animal welfare with meaningful work supporting children and young people with complex special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Our farm is a key part of Briarwood's innovative Reach & Connect provision, offering therapeutic, practical and engaging learning experiences that help pupils re-engage with education, build confidence and experience success. Working with a diverse range of animals and reptiles, you will play a central role in creating a safe, nurturing and inspiring environment where both animals and young people can thrive. Candidates will:

• Lead the daily care and welfare of farm animals, reptiles and small-animal collections.
• Manage feeding, enrichment, health monitoring and husbandry programmes.
• Maintain high standards of animal welfare, hygiene, biosecurity and record keeping.
• Develop and improve animal enclosures, sensory gardens and outdoor learning spaces.
• Support pupils aged 3-19 in hands-on animal-care activities and therapeutic learning experiences.
• Deliver educational sessions, workshops and farm-based learning opportunities.
• Work closely with teachers, therapists, families and external partners.
• Train and supervise volunteers, weekend and holiday staff.
• Ensure compliance with animal welfare legislation, safeguarding requirements and health and safety regulations.
  
  At Briarwood, we believe every child deserves opportunities to enjoy, engage and learn in ways that work for them.
Make a Real Difference - Transform the lives of children and young people with complex SEND needs. Invest in Your Professional Growth - Benefit from extensive training, SEND expertise, career development opportunities and a culture that encourages learning and progression. Health and wellbeing matters - All Briarwood staff are entitled to a well being day on completion of their probation period. Another well being day can also be granted based on additional twilight training attendance. Join an Outstanding Team - Work alongside dedicated, highly skilled colleagues in a supportive environment where relationships, inclusion and teamwork are at the heart of everything we do. The post is permanent - 26-32.5 hrs per week (negotiate at interview). This role is all year round and a job share would be considered. NB: We are unable to sponsor visas for this role as it does not meet the required criteria for sponsorship, Briarwood School is committed to providing Equal Opportunities for its pupils and staff and safeguarding children. All employees must have an enhanced DBS clearance (this will be carried out by the school if you are successful).