Aussie Wildlife Champions’ Education Program officially launched

The Aussie Wildlife Champions’ Education Program, a joint initiative of the Affinity Education Group and the Australian Wildlife Conservancy (AWC), has officially launched, engaging more than 10,000 children aged between three and five years in critical conservation efforts. 

The bespoke program has been developed in response to Australia’s extinction crisis, was led by Dr Lesley Jones, Head of Education and Pedagogy for Affinity, and is the first of its kind between AWC and an early education provider.

“We have been so pleased to have been able to partner with such a well-respected organisation” Dr Jones said.

“Together we have produced a very special program for young children. Raising children’s awareness of our unique Australian animals and their habitats and how we can all play our part in their protection is so important.”

The Aussie Wildlife Champions’ Education Program provides engaging lesson plans for 18 Australian species and introduces children to core principles of conservation and Australia’s iconic and/or endangered species. 

Fun and age-specific videos describe the criticality and lifecycle of species such as Native Bees, Crocodiles, Numbats and Bilbies. Each lesson is “filled with delightful imagery, insights and activities” that will expand children’s understanding of the breadth, depth and uniqueness of Australia’s native species.

Along with in-centre efforts, a ‘Family Fun At Home’ Mini-Program will help parents and caregivers engage their children with fact-filled and fun information and activities on Australia’s unique wildlife.

“Australia is home to some of the most unique (and adorable) animals in the world and yet traditionally Australian children in preschool and kindergarten classrooms are still taught about only a fraction of our native animals,” Dr Jones said.

“Through the Aussie Wildlife Champions program within our Lifelong Learning Curriculum we’re setting our educators and teachers up to deliver a powerful combination of conservation and education, engaging our little learners in the wonders of Australia’s native wildlife and inspiring new and emerging generations to care for our country.”

Tim Allard, AWC Chief Executive Officer, welcomed the partnership as a critical step forward to bringing the community into the critical journey of conservation.

“Australia’s biodiversity is under threat and our species face increasing risk of extinction, so we need to achieve conservation outcomes at scale rapidly,” Mr Allard said.

“Progress can only be made with collaboration and public support so we’re excited this partnership with Affinity Education Group will enable us to connect with young children and their families.”