Outreach
If you can’t come to the zoo, let the zoo come to you! RZSS can send a qualified member of our discovery and learning team to your location to do an engaging talk or workshop. Alternately, if you would like RZSS to provide presence at a booth for your festival, fair, or other event, please contact the team directly at community@rzss.org.uk.
Please note that outreach programmes do not include live animals in any capacity.
Explore some of our offerings below!
Book a session
Outreach talks
All community outreach talks are 50–60 minutes in length, allowing time for a concluding Q&A. Talks are developed with adult audiences in mind however we are always happy for to adapt for any aged learner.
History of RZSS
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) was founded in 1909! Discover our origin story and journey with us through over 100 years’ worth of history by hearing stories from our early days and how we have grown throughout the century. Get to know some of the magnificent animals we have cared for and learn how they have helped us become what we are today.
Gentle Giants: Giraffes at Edinburgh Zoo
Giraffes are a unique animal native to Africa but beloved all over the world. Learn more about the dangers these majestic animals face in the wild and what RZSS and other groups are doing to protect them, as well as a little about the five cheeky boys that live at Edinburgh Zoo!
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Conservation Tales
As a global wildlife conservation charity, RZSS works hard to protect and save species all over the world! In this talk, journey through some of our most exciting, world-changing conservation projects, and meet some of the animals we're helping to save throughout the amazing, one-of-a kind planet we all call home.
Into Budongo: A look at chimp research and conservation with RZSS
Chimpanzees are our closest living relatives, with skills and abilities we used to think belonged only to humans! Learn about how RZSS is working to protect chimpanzees in the wild while learning more about their behaviours and intelligence. In this talk you will delve into the important work happening here in Edinburgh and in the forests of the Budongo, and learn about the unique personalities of the many chimpanzees that call Edinburgh Zoo home.
Waddle Wonders
Penguins have been enchanting visitors at Edinburgh Zoo for over 100 years. Learn what it takes to keep our colony swimming and how these flightless birds became such an iconic species. Discover the power of penguins by hearing stories about these little birds with big personalities.
Scotland’s Wildcats: the cat, the myth, the legend
In this dynamic talk, learn all about the ways wildcats are imbedded in Scottish history, and why we are working so hard as part of the Saving Wildcats partnership project to secure their place as an iconic and integral part of Scotland’s future.
Sticking up for the wee ones
Though they are small, insects are mighty! In this talk learn about how our planet depends upon some of the most unknown and unappreciated creatures. Discover why their numbers are dropping so quickly and how RZSS is sticking up for the wee ones by inspiring everyone to protect, value and love them.
Outreach workshops
Wildlife Storytelling
Enjoy an exclusive story telling session for your group based around our amazing animals and the places they live! Story telling sessions include a story, a visit to see the animal and a takeaway craft. Choose from a selection of animals when booking including giraffes, cheetahs, penguins and sloths.
Best for ages: 3+
Skull discovery
This hands-on exploration uses animal skulls to teach animal adaptations. Groups will use their own observation and will be shocked at how much can be learned from just a skull!
Length: 60 minutes
Best for ages: 10+
Wild Designs
Ever wondered what it takes to design a comfy and enriching home for some of your favourite zoo animals? Join us for a wild and wonderful interactive workshop where creativity meets conservation. Discover the secret innovations of animals' enclosures and before putting your skills to the test in crafting a perfect habitat. Using materials provided this hands-on workshop brings the zoo to life and is perfect for budding zoo tycoons, curious minds and future artist alike. Let's get building!
Length: 60 minutes
Best for ages: 8+
