Knowsley Safari to host SEND workshop to help boost employment

Knowsley Safari will be hosting an interactive safari skills programme on Sunday 29 September, aimed at providing real-life work experience for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) students within the region.

Open to individuals aged 14-18 years old, the programme is focussed on supporting SEND students in a bid to tackle the 4.8 per cent 2023 employment rate for people with a learning disability.

During the day, attendees will experience a wide variety of different jobs – including animal keeper, researcher, trainer and educator, which will include practical tasks relating to each role.

Promising to be an unforgettable experience, the non-profit making safari skills programme will include activities such as going on the UK’s longest safari drive to deliver wolf enrichment, undertaking a meerkat behaviour study and taking part in a fascinating animal training game.

Students will also build their own portfolio throughout the day, documenting each job they have experienced, which can be taken home upon completion of the programme.

Niamh Robinson, engagement supervisor at Knowsley Safari said: “Helping someone with a learning disability into employment can massively increase their self-esteem and the Safari Skills Programme is a great bridge between employment and that first step into paid work.

“The day offers a taster of different job roles in a supportive environment, aiming to build confidence and futureproof employment potential.”

Taking place from 9.00am to 3.30pm on site at Knowsley Safari, a maximum of ten places are available. The price for Knowsley Safari members is £45, while non-members will pay £50. To book or find out more information please contact vip@knowsley.com.