In October, we participated in two online English as a Second Language (ESL) lessons for children from Ukraine. These young learners come from the Donetsk region, near the frontline. Due to the ongoing conflict, many cannot attend school in person and have been evacuated to other regions, continuing their studies online.
The lessons were organised by a dedicated teacher who had previously participated in our course on integrating Humane Education into School Subjects. She kindly invited us to join her lessons, giving us a fantastic opportunity to engage with her students.
Our goals for the sessions were twofold: to teach the children about caring for animals and to provide them with an authentic English-speaking experience to boost their motivation to learn. Our devoted campaigners, Mark Randell and Jim Clark, were thrilled to join the children, sharing insights about their work in animal welfare. They discussed the importance of being responsible pet owners and also explored Ukrainian laws related to animal protection. We have asked the students questions about Ukrainian laws that are concerning animals: for example, “What is the biggest punishment for abusing animals in Ukraine?” or “Are you allowed to walk your dog without a leash or let your dog roam free?”. We also discussed what jobs animals came to the conclusion that the main job of animals is to be our friends.
The students had a chance to ask us questions too. They were keen to know if the UK stereotypes were true and asked us questions, such as, “What weather do you prefer?” and, “Do you like tea or coffee?”
The children were enthusiastic participants, eagerly showing off their pets and creating posters about animals. The sessions were not only educational but also a lot of fun for everyone involved.
We hope these lessons mark the beginning of a journey for these children, encouraging them to live more compassionate lives, side by side with animals.
What’s next for our animal welfare school education programme in Ukraine?
We plan to start another online course for teachers about introducing humane education into school subjects, as well as conduct a series of lessons of kindness in one town and several villages of Cherkasy region. Also, along with two teachers who attended our previous course, we are working on creating new textbooks. One is an English as a Second Language resource book with all materials devoted to animal welfare, and the second is for preschool teachers, with materials that would combine STREAM education and a humane attitude towards animals and nature overall.
You can find out more about our animal welfare work in Ukraine and the rest of Eastern Europe by visiting our campaign pages.
