Closing Date
1st November 2024
Department
Events, Christmas – The Santa Experience & Enchanted Trail of Light
Location
Colchester Zoo
Employment Type
Temporary – multiple vacancies available
Salary
To be discussed at interview
You MUST be 18 years or over to apply for a role within our Santa Experience Team. Any applicants under the age of 18 years will not be considered. If you are interested in applying for a role within our Santa Experience Team, please complete the Application Form below and send to events@colchesterzoo.org
Introduction to the Event
Each year Colchester Zoo presents their very own Santa Experience and Enchanted Trail of Light as part of the festive celebrations. These are some of the most popular events in the calendar as we welcome families from all over to celebrate the festivities here at the Zoo. It has become tradition for many families to visit at this special time of year to make magical memories to treasure.
Christmas is a magical time of the year for children and we strive to ensure every child has an unforgettable visit to the Santa Experience at Colchester Zoo, one which they will share their memories of for years to come. A key part of this experience is Santa himself of course, he sees thousands of children over the festive period and each time they leave with a huge smile on their face! Mother Christmas is also incredibly important, ensuring that each and every child receives a warm welcome and even a tasty treat! This year we are also introducing appearances from Santa at our Enchanted Trail of Light event up until Christmas, something new for 2024 which we hope will add an extra magical touch to the evening for families.
We need an authentic Santa and Mother Christmas, with creative minds that can answer any of the children’s’ questions with a sprinkle of magic to ensure the anticipation and excitement for Christmas! They of course need to have a passion for the Christmas season and both need to be happy, jolly souls. Santa also needs a great Ho, Ho, Ho! spreading Christmas cheer for all to hear! They need to ensure that they can build a rapport with people of all ages and communicate clearly to each and every one. Authenticity is key – seeing is believing after all!
Dates:
Magic of Christmas Santa Experience: 23rd & 24th November, 30th November & 1st December, 7th & 8th, 14th & 15th and 19th to 24th December 2024.
Enchanted Trail of Light: 30th November, 4th, 6th, 7th, 11th, 13th, 14th, 18th, 20th, 21st December 2024
Working hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm (Magic of Christmas), 5:00pm – 8:30pm (Enchanted Trail of Light)
Role Responsibilities & Essential Requirements
- You may be subject to a CRB check for this position
- Excellent communication and customer care skills.
- Confident and enthusiastic.
- Good time management.
- Greeting children and families.
- Giving out presents to children.
- Health and safety must be adhered to.
- Previous Christmas experience not required.
- All successful applicants will be required to complete an induction day to see how our Santa Experience operates.
Desirable Requirements
- Previous experience working with children.
- Experience in acting and entertainment.
Working Hours
8:00am – 5:00pm on Magic of Christmas dates, 5:00pm – 8:30pm on Enchanted Trail of Light dates
Dates
23rd, 24th, 30th November, 1st, 4th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 11th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 18th – 24th, 28th, 30th December 2024
Salary
To be discussed over interview.
Working Environment
- Colchester Zoo is a non-smoking environment and smoking is not permitted by members of staff whilst on the premises.
- Colchester Zoo is an equal opportunities employer.
- You may be required to work offsite on animal transfers on occasion.
Benefits
- Santa training will be provided.
- Costumes will be provided.
- We can also provide references after the event for future job applications if requested.
- Free onsite parking.