The RSPCA believes that if children are to understand about the role and importance of animals in society, they need to learn about animal welfare at school.
Since 2007, the RSPCA has sent a questionnaire to a representative sample of schools in the UK. There has been a seven per cent increase in the number of schools that provide at least one lesson in animal welfare – 92 per cent compared to 85 per cent - and schools are now more likely to teach an average of three to six lessons about animal welfare compared to only one to two lessons four years ago.
Animal welfare is taught in a number of different subject areas but the most popular subjects are a combination of Personal and social education, Social and health education, Citizenship and Science.
There has been a steady year-on-year increase as well in the number of schools responding to the questionnaire; however it still remains that less than ten per cent of potential respondents are participating. It is hoped that responses will increase in future years so that a more rounded, objective conclusion can be drawn about the teaching of animal welfare in schools.
For more information, read the 'education' animal welfare indicator.
