Sewerby Hall Zoo apprentice wins award in animal care

Sewerby Hall Zoo apprentice, Megan Welsh, has been awarded Apprentice of the Year in Animal Care at Bishop Burton College’s 2026 Apprenticeships Awards.

The awards which took place on Thursday, 12 February at Bishop Burton College, seek to acknowledge the hard work of apprentices across the East Riding, shining a light on their great efforts and value within the workplace.

Megan, aged 30 from Hull, began her apprenticeship back in October 2023 as a zoo keeper, she immediately got stuck into a wide range of tasks and quickly became a valued member of the team at Sewerby Zoo.

Throughout her course Megan has excelled both academically and practically and has secured her place as a permanent team member, giving her the amazing opportunity to continue her learning whilst demonstrating high levels of animal care and animal welfare protection.

Sewerby Hall, Gardens and Zoo strongly believe in the value of apprenticeships and the opportunities that they award people to learn valuable skills and gain hands on experience, particularly when pursuing a career that is highly sought after and competitive such as zoo keeping.

Councillor Nick Coultish, cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: ‘’A huge congratulations to Megan and all the apprentices who took part in Bishop Burton College’s 2026 Apprenticeship Awards.

‘’Sewerby Hall Zoo prides itself on giving students the building blocks that they need to pursue their dreams and forge successful careers within the animal care industry and I am delighted to hear that Megan has become a permanent member of the wonderful, dedicated team at Sewerby.’’

Head zoo keeper, John Pickering, and assistant head zoo keeper, Melissa Tate, attended the awards alongside Megan to show support to their much-valued apprentice, now colleague.

John Pickering, added: ‘’We couldn’t think to nominate anyone more deserving of this award and was delighted to see Megan walk away with the win.

‘’It has been a pleasure to watch Megan grow, we will continue to support her on her journey, and we look forward to seeing what she achieves next as a zoo keeper. Well done Megan!’’

To learn more about Sewerby Zoo and check opening times, see: Zoo