Scottish SPCA revamps innovative educational programme
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The Scottish SPCA is launching Animal WISE, a revamped educational programme designed to make learning about animals fun and accessible for all – even in the age of social distancing.
Scotland’s animal welfare charity is expanding their support of young people and communities from their traditional classroom visits to include e-learning activities, virtual tours of centres and webinars.
The new Animal WISE package also encompasses the Society’s Animal Guardians programme, working with children who are at risk of or have already shown concerning behaviours towards animals.
Head of education, policy and research Gilly Mendes Ferreira said: “We last revamped our education offering in 2009.
"A decade on, especially with the current restrictions due to Covid-19, seems the appropriate time to refresh our brand and embrace more of the virtual world.
“Due to the pandemic, we had to revise many of the plans we had in place, such as adventure clubs which were going to be held at our centres, and adapt them for a digital platform.
“During lockdown we created downloadable education packs, which were downloaded over 6,000 times.
"We also distributed around 1,000 packs with the help of Barnardo’s and Police Scotland to children who did not have the facilities to access the packs online.
“We want to build on that success, as we believe our support to schools should extend further than our one-off annual workshops.
"We want to support young people’s health and wellbeing, enhance their literacy and numeracy skills, introduce innovative ways to engage with STEM and inspire future career pathways.
“Animal WISE aims to educate every generation in a meaningful way.
"Our programmes align with the Curriculum for Excellence so there is a wealth of tools that can be used by teachers from early years through to secondary school.
"Through our ambition to help develop the young workforce and support every local community we will also have new opportunities when it comes to engaging with colleges, universities and families no matter how old or young you are.
“Our services are completely free, so if you’re not sure how we could support you you can get in touch with the education team at education@scottishspca.org."
To find out more about Animal WISE, visit www.scottishspca.org/animal-wise .
