Invite the BC SPCA into your classroom
BC SPCA humane education programs are specially designed to teach students about important animal welfare issues, and to help them understand the deep interconnections that exist between animals, people and the environment.
Developed around themes of Social-Emotional Learning, Sustainability & Stewardship and Social Responsibility, all lessons include concepts related to B.C. core curricular competencies and content.
For schools in NANAIMO and surrounding areas (Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Lantzville, Parksville and surrounding areas):
For schools in VICTORIA, COWICHAN and surrounding areas:
Bookings in this region are closed for the 2023/2024 school year. Thank you for your amazing support! We look forward to reconnecting with you again in Fall 2024!
Social-Emotional Learning
The Language of Animals (K-5): This presentation focuses on how animals communicate to us through behavior, body language, vocals and movement, and how kids can practice kindness, empathy, caring, respect, and safety around all animals.
Making the Right Choice (3-5): Which animals make good companions? Let’s dig into the natural behaviours of some of the animals we live with, and uncover whether we can provide everything they need to be happy and healthy.
Sustainability & Stewardship
Wildlife Wonders (Gr. 3-7): What happens when wildlife and humans share the same space? Students will hear real wildlife stories, then will identify how we can all be better citizens of our environment, and neighbours to wildlife.
Social Responsibility
The Farm Animal Connection (K-3): Explore the human relationship with animals raised to provide food. Students K-2 will consider the similarities between farm animals and ourselves. Students grades 3+ will employ critical thinking skills to explore the lives of farm animals, and to consider how we can raise awareness and speak up for them.
You Can Make a Difference (Gr. 3-7): Learn about real-life issues and laws that affect animals, then work together to develop creative solutions to improve their lives, and become a voice for animals in your community.
Including Animals in Social Justice (Gr. 5-12): Animal welfare is a social justice issue. Tailored to an age-appropriate level, students will investigate beliefs and stereotypes about animals, critically reflect on what is socially acceptable, and consider the intersections of animal welfare with environmental protection and human rights issues in our world today.
The Farm-Food Connection (Gr. 3-10): Consider where food products come from, beyond the grocery store. At an grade-specific level, students will explore the needs of farm animals who give us everyday products, and analyze the labels used to identify them. Older students will also consider the environmental impacts of the animal agriculture industry. Let’s make a difference for farm animals by thinking about the products we bring home.
NEW this year! Careers: Working for Animals (Gr. 8-12) Love animals? Why not work for them? Explore some diverse and rewarding careers working hands-on with animals, or in the service of animals. Students will explore the paths leading from “just loving animals” to careers making a difference in the world!
For schools in VICTORIA, COWICHAN and surrounding areas:
For schools in NANAIMO and surrounding areas:
FAQs
How long is each presentation? Presentations for Grades 3+ are offered as single-session or three-session experiences. Single-session presentations typically run approximately 60 minutes. Three-session experiences typically range from 45 to 60 minutes per session.
How much do presentations cost? Each presentation booking costs $40. If you are booking a three-session experience, this does not affect the cost. If this represents a barrier, please indicate this on your booking form, and we will be pleased to discuss alternate arrangements.
Will there be an animal at the presentation? Our presentations are designed to be educational, fun and interactive in nature. Please note that animals will not typically be present at our presentations. There may, however, be certain circumstances where an animal may attend, but this is not the focus of our presentations. This will be confirmed at time of booking.
Can we combine multiple classes together for one presentation? Given the interactive nature of our presentations, we typically present to one class at a time — but we are very happy to provide multiple presentations to different classes within a school! If you would like to explore options for a larger presentation, please contact your Regional Humane Educator, noted below.
Questions about presentations in Victoria/Cowichan? Please contact Michelle Atterby, Regional humane educator, Victoria & Cowichan.
Questions about presentations in Nanaimo and surrounding districts? Please contact Blaire Norbury, Regional humane educator, Nanaimo & District.