
Ready to make a real difference for rescued animals? Join the RSPCA's Blackberry Farm team on an 18-month apprenticeship where you'll help traumatised cats and dogs rebuild trust and find their forever homes.
You'll join the dedicated team at Blackberry Farm Animal Centre, a specialist rescue facility caring for animals recovering from cruelty and neglect. This 18-month fixed-term apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to combine meaningful animal care work with accredited training, with 20% of your 35-hour week dedicated to your qualification.
The role follows a 2-week rolling rota with every other weekend working (study time cannot fall on weekends). You'll work 8:30am to 4:30pm with a one-hour unpaid lunch break, and bank holiday cover is required. Your own reliable transport is essential due to the rural location and limited public transport.
Blackberry Farm Animal Centre is part of the RSPCA, the UK's leading animal welfare charity. The centre specialises in caring for rescued animals, particularly those recovering from cruelty or neglect. The facility includes state-of-the-art kennels specifically designed for cruelty case dogs requiring extended stays during court proceedings, and a cattery housing up to 60 cats, with comfortable sleeping areas and enrichment activities. The team focuses on rehabilitation, behavioural support and preparing animals for adoption into loving homes.
The RSPCA operates across England and Wales with multiple animal centres and is committed to building a diverse workforce. The organisation actively encourages applications from underrepresented groups including those from minority ethnic backgrounds and people with disabilities, recognising that diverse lived experiences strengthen their mission.