London Zoo takes structured approach to management training

The Zoological Society of London is to introduce structured management-training courses, leading to nationally recognized qualifications, at its head offices at London Zoo.

Founded in 1826, the society is an international scientific, conservation and educational charity, whose key role is the conservation of animals and their habitats. It runs London Zoo and Whipsnade Wild Animal Park in England, carries out scientific research at the Institute of Zoology and is involved in field conservation in countries worldwide.

Management training at the charity was previously done on an ad hocbasis. Now, for the first time, management courses will form part of a planned approach to structured management development within the organization.

The charity has selected GBS Corporate Training to run the introductory certificate in management and the introductory diploma in management courses,which include modules on managing information, communication skills, working with others, setting objectives and the importance of customer focus.

“The provider showed significant commitment to tailoring the introductory courses to suit our managers’ individual needs – for example, relating them to relevant environmental issues for us,” commented Karen Turnbull, the society’s training and HR manager. “About 20 managers are taking part, but we aim to extend this as we develop our commitment to implementing a structured programme.”

The courses will take the form of monthly one-day workshops, held over seven months. They will involve delegates in interactive classroom sessions along with reading, web-based research and assignment writing. The courses, which follow a blended approach to learning, will enable managers not only to improve their general management skills but also to see how they can maximize performance in all areas.

Patricia Davies, group marketing manager, GBS Corporate Training, said:“Linking management training with a formally-recognized qualification was extremely important to London Zoo as it wants to ensure that all training and development are now approached in a structured way. Over the next few years, the society will continue to invest in staff learning and development and we are delighted that it has chosen to work with us to achieve this.”