Why we launched our Teacher Network
Our Teacher Network, part of our wider mission of preventing extinction, has been created by our Conservation Education and Engagement team to bring together a community of like-minded professionals working across the education sector. The network provides a collaborative space where teachers and education staff can explore how to make sustainability real, relevant and achievable for learners of all ages.
The Teacher Network is designed to support educators at every stage of their sustainability journey. Whether a school is taking its first steps towards environmental action or has already embedded a whole-setting approach to sustainability, the network offers a supportive environment for sharing experiences, challenges and solutions.
Through monthly events across the academic year, members can engage with a range of conservation and sustainability themes. Events are delivered in a flexible format, with online sessions alongside in-person opportunities at the zoo. These in-person events provide valuable time for networking, professional dialogue and deeper exploration of conservation education in practice.
Each session typically features a guest speaker from either Chester Zoo or a trusted partner organisation aligned with the zoo’s conservation mission. Speakers provide real-world context to the focus topic, helping educators connect global conservation issues with classroom learning. Chester Zoo’s education team also highlights practical support available to schools, including free downloadable resources and opportunities for direct engagement with the zoo.
Crucially, time is built into every session for discussion between professionals. This peer exchange allows educators to reflect on how sustainability initiatives can be effectively implemented within the realities of school life.
"It’s brilliant to see teachers come together here at Chester Zoo, to share best practise, connect with colleagues from other schools and colleges and provide feedback to us about our own education programmes. We really value spending time with teachers and educators to help shape conservation education here at the zoo and across the education sector."
Schools Engagement Assistant Manager who leads the Teacher Network
Staying connected
We also have a dedicated private Facebook Group to enable members to connect, share ideas and stay informed about upcoming events. This online space will provide an ongoing forum for collaboration between sessions.
For those who do not use Facebook, updates and event information are also available via the Teacher Network page and through the zoo’s Education newsletter, ensuring the network remains accessible to all educators wherever they are.
Who can join the Teacher Network?
The Chester Zoo Teacher Network is open to anyone currently employed in, or training for, a role within the education sector. This includes professionals working in nurseries, schools, colleges and universities. Previous events have welcomed teachers, lecturers, support staff, administrative teams and site staff - reflecting our belief that embedding sustainability within a setting requires a whole-community approach.
Supporting education for a sustainable future
By connecting educators with our conservation experts and with one another, the Chester Zoo Teacher Network aims to strengthen the role schools and education settings can play in creating a more sustainable future. Through collaboration, shared learning and practical support, the network empowers education professionals to inspire the next generation to care for and protect the natural world.
Further details about upcoming events and how to join can be found on our Teacher Network page.