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Step into a zookeeper’s shoes with the National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra’s ‘Primary School Keeper for a Day’ program. Kids in years 3-6 feed animals, clean enclosures, and learn firsthand about wildlife conservation in this unique, interactive experience.
Step into a zookeeper’s shoes with the National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra’s ‘Primary School Keeper for a Day’ program. Kids in years 3-6 feed animals, clean enclosures, and learn firsthand about wildlife conservation in this unique, interactive experience.
Book with National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra · Yarralumla, Australian Capital Territory
Located in Yarralumla, Australian Capital Territory, the National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra offers a rare hands-on experience designed specifically for children in years 3-6 with its "Primary School Keeper for a Day" program. This immersive three-hour session invites young adventurers to step into the shoes of a zookeeper, taking part in feeding animals, cleaning enclosures, and crafting enrichment toys. Unlike typical zoo visits, this program provides a tactile, behind-the-scenes understanding of wildlife care and conservation.
The zoo itself showcases a blend of native Australian fauna and exotic species, making it a standout destination for families wanting more active engagement with nature. Kids witness the daily operations that keep these diverse animals healthy and thriving—from reptiles to friendly mammals—amid an environment that prioritizes education and animal welfare. Each session mixes up the activities, ensuring repeat visitors never experience the same day twice.
This program is perfect for young naturalists eager to connect with animals and understand the critical role zoos play in global conservation efforts. With a focus on Australian wildlife alongside international species, the zoo's staff emphasize sustainability and animal well-being throughout the day’s tasks. It’s an educational outing where children leave inspired about protecting habitats far beyond the zoo's borders.
Situated on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra lies within reach of the capital city’s outdoor attractions and cultural landmarks. After the session, families can explore nearby natural reserves or enjoy Canberra’s well-kept parks and trails. This hands-on keeper experience elevates a typical zoo visit into a deeper learning adventure grounded in genuine stewardship and active participation.
easy.
3 hours.
Suitable for children in good general health with basic mobility.
The program is designed specifically for children in school years 3 to 6.
Each session runs for approximately three hours.
Activities vary daily to keep the experience unique, and not all animals are involved each session.
Participants should bring enclosed shoes, a water bottle, sun protection, and wear clothes suitable for getting dirty.
Sessions require a minimum of three participants and may be rescheduled or refunded if this number is not met.
Please contact the zoo directly to discuss any health concerns before booking, especially regarding animal dander or outdoor exposure.
Established as Australia’s only combined zoo and aquarium, this facility focuses on education and conservation unique to the Canberra region.
The zoo actively supports endangered species recovery programs and promotes sustainable wildlife care practices.
National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra is a combined zoo and aquarium located in Yarralumla, Australian Capital Territory. The facility offers a wide range of animal encounters, conservation-focused tours, educational programs and family experiences. Visitors can choose from short, guided encounters—such as 15-minute sessions with sun bears, cheetahs or tigers—to longer interactive tours including family Wonders of Wildlife and full-day conservation experiences. The venue provides school-focused keeper-for-a-day programs for primary and high school students that teach animal care, feeding and enrichment skills in structured three‑hour and longer sessions. Birthday packages and private event options are available, including Adventureland and Safari Extravaganza birthday packages that combine guided animal interactions, activity packs and catering choices suited to groups and children. General admission grants access to exhibits spanning African savannah species, Asian carnivores, Australian native animals and aquatic displays, while specialised encounters let small groups meet animals like giraffes, rhinos, meerkats and ruffed lemurs under staff supervision. Conservation, animal welfare and education are central to the institution’s offerings. Keeper-guided experiences are led by trained staff and focus on species-specific care, enrichment and conservation messaging. Tickets, encounter bookings and school program details are published by the National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra and should be checked on official channels for current availability and age guidelines. The facility’s location in Canberra makes it accessible to visitors throughout the Australian Capital Territory and nearby regions. Encounter opportunities include named animals such as Arataki and Otay the sun bears and Solo the cheetah when available. Attendance depends on bookings.
Book with National Zoo and Aquarium Canberra