We are keen to support people of all ages in gaining experience working with us at the Scottish SPCA!
Who can apply for a work experience placement?
Any S4-S6 student (aged 14+) with an interest in the work of the Scottish SPCA is welcome to apply for a work experience placement with us.
Note: Our work experience is offered on the basis of 3-5 consecutive days, Monday to Friday. We will accommodate work experience placements annually during the months of September to March
Any other awards or curriculum-based requirements will be treated as youth volunteering (see below)
What will I be expected to do during my placement?
You can apply to carry out work experience in one of our Rescue and Rehoming Centres, where you will undertake a variety of animal husbandry duties under the supervision of our friendly staff.
On these placements, you will have contact with the animals in our care, so it’s important that you let us know about any allergies or other health issues that might affect your ability to carry out the tasks involved.
Alternatively, you may prefer a role in our headquarters in Dunfermline, where we can offer experience of a variety of Head Office functions such as HR, communications, marketing, fundraising and data entry.
When can I complete a work experience placement?
Work experience placements in our Rescue and Rehoming Centres are offered from Monday to Friday between the hours of 8.30am and 3.30pm for school age students.
In headquarters, work experience placements are offered Monday to Friday between the hours of 9.00am and 4.00pm. All students are entitled to a lunch break of 45 minutes during their day.
What is the recruitment process for work experience placements?
We would ask you to complete an application form, which can be downloaded here. You may wish to do this with assistance from a relevant staff member at your school e.g. guidance teacher, PSHE teacher.
Note: Your placement must be arranged through your school and all applications are required to be counter-signed by a relevant staff member and sent to us through your school. Applications received directly from students or parents will not be considered.
Due to their popularity there is limited availability for work experience placements, so please contact us as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
Youth volunteering
We welcome young people to volunteer with us as part of their school curriculum, Duke of Edinburgh Awards, Saltire Awards or other award scheme. Our placements are available to age 14+ and can be tailored to suit your specific needs. To apply for a 14+ volunteering placement with us, please contact us here .
Youth volunteering placements are also very popular and it will not always be possible to accommodate applicants. The availability of placements is at the discretion of our Rescue & Rehoming Centre managers and other relevant business area managers.