About KEEP
About us
We are KEEP! A small not-for-profit organisation, made up of a team of like minded zookeepers, dedicated to helping keepers connect with other collections in order to improve their CPD and, in turn, their animals’ welfare!
Who We Are
The world's first official Zookeeper Exchange Programme
KEEP was founded in 2020 to bring together like minded Zookeepers to experience the benefits of spending time at other zoos, creating an environment for exchanging knowledge, techniques, and practices within the zoo and aquarium industry. Despite the setback of social distancing during a global pandemic, the KEEP team came out of lockdown with the resolve to bring the industry closer together, in a time where everyone felt disconnected. After some trial placements and many months creating their website, KEEP officially launched in 2023, making it the first and only zookeeper exchange programme in the UK and the world. Over the years, KEEP's mission has remained the same: to improve animal welfare standards by providing opportunities for animal professionals to develop their skills, expand their network, and exchange ideas with members of their community.
Our Journey
A Decade of Growth
KEEP Founded
The Keeper Educational Exchange Programme is established in Cambridge, pioneering the first formal keeper exchange scheme in the UK.
First Exchange
Our first trial placement at KEEP was between Shepreth Wildlife Park and Hobbledown Adventure Park.
Digital Platform Launch
On January 1st, KEEP launched officially with a brand new website, a digital infrastructure allowing KEEP to scale its placement process, streamlining the experience for keepers and collections.
KEEP Conservation
KEEP expanded its network to work with conservation organisations, sending keepers from Banham Zoo and Fenn Bell Conservation Project to the Toucan Rescue Ranch, an in-situ conservation project in Costa Rica helping wild Sloths, Toucans, Possums, and other animals to be released back into the wild.
Expansion
The KEEP team grew to 6 members and embarks on gaining charity status.
Case Study
The First Exchange
1st
Exchange
"I thoroughly enjoyed my day at Shepreth, and would recommend all animal keepers do an exchange day. In just one day I learned SO much, a lot I have already taken back to my own collection and much more which I am sure will come in useful throughout my animal career. Thank you so much to the KEEP team as well as Shepreth Wildlife Park for having me!" - Lucy White, Head Keeper at Hobbledown, Epsom.
"Keepers will never stop learning as standards can always be improved"
— Lucy White - Hobbledown Zoo
What We Believe
Our Values
Conservation First
Every decision is guided by what is best for wildlife and the planet.
Community
We are stronger together. KEEP thrives on shared knowledge and mutual support.
Lifelong Learning
Growth never stops. We champion curiosity and continuous professional development.
Global Impact
Local action, worldwide reach. KEEP connects keepers across countries.
Integrity
Honesty and trust underpin everything we do, from keeper matching to reporting outcomes.
Access
Professional development should be open to all qualified keepers, regardless of institution size or location.