Education
THE GILES HOWARD MEMORIAL EDUCATION CENTRE
The JSPCA Animals' Shelter Giles
Howard Memorial Education Centre was opened on 29th June, 1996, by Sir
Philip Bailhache. It plays a vital role in introducing children to animals and
teaching them the importance of caring for and respecting both pets and
wildlife. It is widely recognised that education about animal welfare from a young age is
imperative to the improvement of attitudes towards the treatment of
animals, which, in turn, is fundamentally important in the prevention of
cruelty to animals.
The Education Centre has been
steadily developed since its opening and now boasts two highly motivated
and trained Education Officers. It
works in close conjunction with the Jersey’s schools and has developed a
number of carefully crafted workshops that support the curriculum.
Workshops are designed to be as practically based as possible and
can be adapted for all age groups. For
example, the popular 'minibeast'
workshops incorporate the JSPCA Animals' Shelter Nature
Trail, which is located behind
the Education Centre and is a haven for local species of plants and
wildlife, making it an ideal environment for the teaching about local
‘flora and fauna’.
In addition to the provision of workshops for schools, the Education Officers are also responsible for liaising with schools and individuals to provide work experience placements for students. The Shelter provides placements for the Project Trident Scheme and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, amongst others, as well as offering the opportunity for individuals to gain experience in working with animals. An application form for student volunteers can be obtained from the JSPCA Animals' Shelter or by clicking on the following picture:
CHILDREN'S PARTIES
The JSPCA Animals' Shelter introduced the hosting of children’s parties two years ago. These parties are extremely popular and enjoyable, as well as having the added benefit of teaching children, who may not otherwise get the opportunity to visit the Shelter, about the importance of caring for animals. Bob Vincent, who joined the Education Department team in June 2002, has taken over the organisation of these events and will even provide a puppet show, entitled “Chips and Gravy” for no extra charge!
HELPING THE COMMUNITY
The Education Department’s scope extends far out into the general community of Jersey. The Education Officers are only too pleased to visit groups of adults, whether they wish to learn more about the Shelter or simply handle animals as a means of relaxation therapy. Over 4000 adults and children benefited from the Education Centre’s excellent facilities and knowledgeable staff in 2002.
STAFF TRAINING
The Education Department is also responsible for the development and organisation of all of the on-site staff training. The JSPCA Animals' Shelter is committed to ensuring that every staff member receives training of the highest standard in order that they may carry out their jobs as safely and efficiently as possible. Nearly all Shelter staff are undertaking an NVQ in Animal Care, which is assessed on-site. These in-house training sessions are offered monthly and cover a wide variety of relevant and important topics. The training offered to staff does not stop there, however, with staff taking advantage of the many opportunities for personal growth by completing recognised courses in Management, Marine Mammal Rescue and Animal Legislation, to name but a few.
The work of the Education Department does not stop at the training of staff and members of the public. It is the responsibility of the Education Officers to provide and update all promotional literature, liaise with the JSPCA Affiliates and promote the work of the JSPCA Animals' Shelter through the media and through the organisation of events. There are always new challenges to be faced by the Education Officers, such as the constant development of exciting, fresh ideas so that the Education Centre may continue to provide first rate education, thus promoting animal welfare.
The Shelter’s Education Officers are always extremely pleased to welcome groups of children or adults to the Shelter, visit organisations or conduct guided tours of the Shelter (by appointment only). To arrange a visit, party, workshop or tour please contact Bob Vincent on 724331.