The deadline to apply for a popular programme offering students work experience and an appreciation of the environment is fast approaching.

Applications for the Bermuda Zoological Society's (BZS) Junior Volunteer's Programme, which will run from September, 2002 until May, 2003, are due on June 22.

Junior volunteers (JVs) will devote one morning each weekend to working at the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo (BAMZ) for an entire school year. Sixteen JVs will be chosen from among the eligible applicants, who must between 14 and 18 years old. Their responsibilities will include feeding animals, cleaning and working at special events and projects.

Student commitment is crucial as the programme is invaluable to staff at BAMZ who can look to JVs for assistance on weekends according to BZS Volunteer Coordinator Donna Heslop. She added: "Our animals need to have consistent care from people they trust."

The programme will also help students develop a work ethic they can practice after high school.

Students can collect an application at the BAMZ front desk or online at www.bamz.org. The application deadline is 5 p.m. on June 22 and may be e-mailed to BAMZ or submitted at the front desk. Questions should be directed to Donna Heslop at 293-2727 extension 130 or by e-mail at bzvolunteersibl.bm.