Animal Welfare in Schools: Education That Builds Empathy

Welfare education in schools can build lasting empathy for animals and create a generation of advocates who apply welfare thinking throughout their lives.

Key Facts

Humane education programmes in schools have been shown to increase empathy and reduce bullying
Research shows that children who learn about animal sentience are more likely to make welfare-conscious food choices as adults
Many schools keep classroom animals without adequate welfare standards or trained care
The link between animal abuse and violence toward humans is well-documented in criminological research
Programmes like the Humane Society's Humane Education initiative operate across US schools
Virtual reality tools are emerging as a way to give students experiential understanding of animal lives

Welfare Considerations

Children are natural empathizers with animals, and education can reinforce or undermine this natural empathy. Schools that address animal welfare positively — through humane education, responsible classroom animal keeping, and critical engagement with food system issues — can build lasting welfare values. Advocates should support humane education programmes and push for welfare content in school curricula.

What You Can Do

Support humane education programmes in local schools through volunteering and donations
Advocate for animal welfare content in school PSHE and science curricula
Ensure any classroom animals are kept to high welfare standards with trained supervision
Engage with parent and teacher associations about introducing welfare education
Support organisations developing age-appropriate welfare education materials for schools