Welcome to my series of interviews with some wonderful people who work within the natural world, from zoo keepers, to museum curators and everything in between and those that are on the path to working in these positions too. Be inspired for a future where you can combine your love of nature with your day job. I hope you enjoy these interviews, that you can learn something from them and they can inspire you.

Now let me introduce you to Naomi.....

Name 
Naomi Ennis

Age 

32

Location

Halton, Northwest UK

What do you do (and where)?

Director of an Animal Activity Licensed Educational Workshop Company

How did you get into it?

When I left school I completed my BTEC National Diploma in Animal Management, gaining Triple Distinction and then went onto study BSc Zoology at Liverpool John Moores University. When I graduated I become a Zookeeper at Knowsley Safari and loved teaching the guests about the animals so applied to become an Instructor in Animal Studies at Myerscough College. Within 1 year I was a Practical Lecturer in Animal Studies. A few years later I become a mum to my second child and decided to set up my own business to be at home more with the kids, but also still be ‘me’. 3 years later and it is now a Multi Award-Winning Business and I have met over 15,000 people to date! 

What made you want to do what you do?

I wanted to be a mum to my children and be at home more whilst they were young, but didn’t want to lose being me. I love the flexibility I have with the business as I’m able to plan around them. I also really enjoy sharing my love for animals, teaching all generations new skills, encouraging quieter children to build their confidence and adhering to animal welfare to ensure workshops meet the animals needs. 

What does it involve?

Blood, sweat and tears! Running a business has great days and not so great days, but with the right support network and determination it can be successful. I need to ensure that I manage the animal collection, complete husbandry and transport logs, register animals with an exotic vet, create social media content, plan for upcoming events, design workshop packages, network and present the workshops themselves. 

Did you need any qualifications?

Experience can count just as much as qualifications, but I do recommend at least a Level 2-3 Qualification minimum to begin as the theory based behind practical elements of animal keeping is just as important and often allows you to research new scientific information to stay up to date with animal care. 

Any tips for a young person that wants to do what you do?

DO IT! If you are passionate, determined and don’t mind working hard, then do it. If you love creating opportunities for people and share your knowledge, then do it. Also be true to who you are and do not lot anyone knock your confidence or enthusiasm.  

What is the best part of what you do?

Seeing people overcome their fears with animals and being a part of children building their confidence to try new things like speak to new people 

What is the worst part of what you do?

My heart breaks when the animals come to the end of the life and pass away, it’s always hard as the bond I have with each one is so strong. I know that Chow Chow basks around 12pm-2pm every day and watches the food tubs when it’s feeding time. I know that Skittles enjoys his round cork tube and usually drinks from his water dish at 7pm each evening. I know that Newton respond to two taps and comes over for food. Losing them when it’s their time doesn’t get easier. 

What is your favourite animal?

I love them all but if I had to choose one it would be a Panther Chameleon! I love that they have stereoscopic eyes, projectile tongue, colour-changing scales, prehensile tail and zygodactylus feet. 

What was the first animal that you fell in love with?

I was 3 years old and really enjoyed feeding and naming the snails in the garden. I’d create homes and habitats for them, and take the lettuce out of the fridge to make sure they had food

What is your favourite place in nature?

I really enjoy walking through a forest! Bonus points if I see a bird!

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love spending time with my family on days out at the zoo, museum, parks and gardens, eating food at a pub and watching a movie with my husband

If you were not doing what you do now what else would you love to do?

It would be teaching in some capacity! I enjoy helping people to learn

Who inspires you?

My children – I love how excited they are to learn, grow and develop

What are your hopes for the future? 

To create an Educational Centre that is open to the public and has Conservation Programs and Animal Care Opportunities for all

Is there anything else you would like to tell us about?

I’m an Ambassador for The King’s Trust in addition to running my business. If you are a young person (18-30) wanting to run a business, then look at their Enterprise Program! I did this and it was an amazing start to setting up Animal Teach Ltd

Where can people find you?

www.animalteach.co.uk

Facebook: @animalteachltd

Instagram/X/TikTok: @animalteach