Developed and delivered alongside Chester Zoo, the digital-first course allows learners to study part-time, while applying sustainability and conservation principles directly within their organisations.
Graduates and colleagues gathered at Chester Cathedral, honouring the founding cohort of the University of Chester’s Postgraduate Certificate in Conservation and Sustainability Education.
The ceremony was a chance for many to meet in person for the first time and share how the course has helped to shape their professional practice.
The partnership between Chester Zoo and the university was a focal point of the event, reiterating the joint dedication to fostering future conservation and sustainability leaders.
Dame Jenny Harries, the University of Chester’s new chancellor, commended the programme in her inaugural address as an exemplar of collaborative, innovative provision driving the enhancement of green skills.
She highlighted how the course prepares professionals from various fields to lead sustainable practices and instigate lasting change.
Conservation training academy manager at Chester Zoo, Liz Webb, attended the graduation ceremony and commented on the successful collaboration and programme impact.
Ms Webb said: “This programme shows what is possible when conservation practitioners and educators design learning together.
“The partnership between Chester Zoo and the University of Chester is helping to equip graduates with the confidence and skills to lead impactful conservation change across a diverse sector.”
Uná Meehan, deputy head of childhood, education, and professional development and programme leader, reflected positively on the group’s accomplishments.
She said, “Teaching on this course has been the most wonderful experience. Our students have formed a genuine community, joining together across locations and sectors to make a real difference.
“Their achievements reflect the transformative potential of conservation and sustainability education.”
Graduates from the founding cohort are already making contributions to the sector in roles that include: leading new conservation and sustainability programmes; supporting businesses as sustainability consultants; implementing whole-school sustainability plans; and advancing research and practice across academia, conservation organisations and zoos.
One graduate expressed their appreciation, stating, “I feel like my brain expanded in a million different ways with all the different angles of conservation education. I feel very lucky to have been on the course.”
In light of the founding cohort’s success, the University of Chester and Chester Zoo are eager to welcome the next group of students for this innovative programme.
Next year’s intake begins at the end of January 2026.