Education
Working alongside SPCA Malta and in conjunction with the Government of Malta (including the Ministry of Education and the Ministry for Rural Affairs and the Environment), we lead a drive to educate the population in responsible ownership of their pets. Pictured here is the new Education Officer for Dogs Trust in Malta, Moira Delia.
We have a large scale youth education programme aimed at all educational facilities in Malta, running alongside an extensive neutering and responsible pet ownership campaign on the island. The programme promotes responsible pet ownership messages to primary school children – this age-group is ready and able to absorb and understand new information, yet still young enough to be forming opinions and behaviours. It will also be a perfect way to approach the older generation through the children talking about our messages at home with their parents.
In its first year of operation, Dogs Trust has spoken to over 8,000 students!
Moira Delia is the TV presenter for the much-loved show, Puss In Boots. She is often seen and heard on other shows talking about the importance of caring for animals responsibly. Her funny, charismatic and approachable manner makes her an obvious choice for the role. But it is her passion and limitless energy in animal welfare that makes her such a welcome figure.
Workshops that motivate
Moira’s workshops will be free for schools to book. Her workshops will offer a range of topics based on responsible dog ownership and safety around dogs. Joining Moira will be SPCA Education Officer, Rita Brincat, who has been developing interactive workshops since the start of the project. By combining their efforts, caring for animals responsibly will have a greater impact on schools across the islands.
The programme is divided into 3 themes:
A Pet’s Needs / Staying Safe Around Pets/ Responsible Pet Ownership
These themes have been adapted to focus on ‘local’ needs and issues.
Who do the workshops target?
Moira’s and Rita’s workshops are tailor-made for primary students in year 1- 6. Separate workshops are conducted for classes with approximately 30 students and last about 30 – 45mins. Workshops are also available for school assemblies. Rita is also available to conduct workshops for secondary students (subject to time available).
What happens in a workshop?
The workshops are always positive and upbeat – to encourage (rather than enforce) correct behaviour around pets, leaving the children with lots of positive thoughts on responsible pet care and the benefits to them, the animals and their community.
The sessions are very interactive with lots of room for discussion, debate and role playing. The main teaching points will always be summarised at the end of the workshop and children are left with a classroom poster pledge and a personal certificate.
Benefits for the community
By talking to schoolchildren and providing exciting, fun and informative workshops, we are raising awareness of the importance of responsible pet ownership.
It strengthens community relationships – for pet owners and non-pet owners – by creating an awareness of the consequences of irresponsible pet ownership.
You can contact the Education team on:
(Mobile) 77 66 1000 or 7962 22 62.
(Email) moira.delia@dogstrustmalta.com
