Writing Your CV for a Conservation Caree

The Writing your C.V. for a conservation career resource from Chester Zoo is a practical careers learning guide designed to support young people who are interested in working in conservation, wildlife, or environmental roles. It explains what conservation organisations really look for, emphasising skills, motivation, and real world experience rather than paid work or long employment histories. The resource guides learners through each section of a conservation focused C.V. including personal profile, skills, experience, volunteering, education, achievements, and interests, with clear prompts and ex

amples to help pupils reflect on their own strengths and experiences.
The resource also helps learners recognise that many everyday activities count as valuable conservation experience, from volunteering and citizen science to gardening, photography, eco clubs, and caring for animals. It introduces the Skills Builder Framework to help pupils match their activities to transferable skills such as teamwork, problem solving, leadership, and communication. By encouraging reflection, confidence, and purposeful writing, the resource empowers young people to present themselves positively and realistically when applying for conservation opportunities.

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand what conservation employers look for in a C.V.

• Identify transferable skills and experiences relevant to conservation careers

• Learn how to structure a clear and effective conservation focused C.V.

• Recognise informal and voluntary activities as valuable experience

• Build confidence in writing personal profiles and statements

Curriculum Links:

• Careers Education: Exploring career pathways, employability skills

• English: Writing for purpose, personal statements, reflection

• Citizenship: Responsibility, volunteering, community action

• PSHE: Self awareness, confidence, goal setting