Educational Outreach at Birmingham Dogs Home
Inspiring kindness, responsibility and community action across the West Midlands
At Birmingham Dogs Home, we believe education is one of the most powerful ways to create lasting change for dogs, people, and the communities we serve. Every year, thousands of dogs arrive at our centres in need of safety, compassion and a fresh start, and by educating people of all ages, we’re helping to build a future where fewer dogs ever need to be rescued.
Our Educational Outreach Programme takes our mission beyond our centres and directly into schools, colleges and community groups across the West Midlands. Through engaging talks, real-life stories and practical guidance, we empower people to understand dogs better, interact safely with them, and recognise the vital role local charities play.
Our education outreach programme
Connecting with local groups is essential to preventing dogs from becoming homeless and to building a kinder, more informed community. Our sessions help people to:
Understand Responsible Dog Ownership
Support a well-established local charity that directly benefits the Midlands region.
Stay Safe Around Dogs
We provide clear, accessible guidance tailored to all ages, an increasingly important topic for schools and families.
Appreciate the Work of Rescue Centres
Participants gain an honest insight into what we do every day, how we care for over 2,000 dogs a year, and why rescues remain an essential community service.
Build Empathy, Confidence & Life Skills
Our talks encourage kindness, understanding and problem-solving. For children especially, these lessons help shape the way they see animals, and people, throughout their lives.
Strengthen Community Connections
We have been part of the West Midlands since 1892. By visiting groups across the region, we reinforce the important relationship between local people and their local charity.
What We Offer
Suitable for all ages, Early Years, Primary, Secondary, SEN and Post-16. Topics include:
- Dog safety and body language
- Responsible ownership and animal welfare
- The work of Birmingham Dogs Home
- Careers with animals
- How charities support local communities
We can support curriculum links in PSHE, science, citizenship and enrichment programmes.
We are proud to work with a wide range of adult and intergenerational groups, including:
- WI groups
- Rotary Clubs
- Lions & Inner Wheel
- U3A groups
- Local clubs, societies and hobby groups
- Faith groups
- Support groups and social clubs
These talks often spark rich discussion, challenge misconceptions, and create new connections between BDH and the wider community. Many groups tell us our sessions are one of their most memorable and enjoyable talks of the year.
Supporting Our Homeless Dogs Through Learning
As part of our community education, we invite groups, especially young people, to take part in a small fundraising activity. This is not just about raising vital funds; it’s about teaching the importance of community action and how charities rely on local support.
Popular activities include:
- Non-uniform days
- Bake sales or craft sales
- Sponsored read-a-thons
- Donation drives for blankets, treats or toys
- Creating handmade enrichment toys for our dogs
- “Coins for Canines” table-top collections
These activities provide a powerful, hands-on way for children and adults to understand the value of giving back and supporting those who cannot speak for themselves
Fundraising
There are lots of way to fundraise for BDH. Whether you want to reach a new goal, tick something daring off your “bucket-list”, hold an event, or ask for donations for your special day.
Fundraising with your Community Group
Whether you run a scouts or guides group, WI or special hobbies group or are a member of a local church, we have lots of ideas to help you to fundraise to help local dogs in need.
Fundraising at school
You can download a fundraising guide with lots of fun ideas and information, suitable for primary school ages and above.
Request your educational talk
If you’re interested in Birmingham Dogs Home visiting your school, college or community group, we’d love to hear from you.
We tailor sessions to your group’s age range, interests and learning outcomes.
Book a Talk
Get In Touch
If you’re interested in Birmingham Dogs Home visiting your school, college or community group, we’d love to hear from you.
We tailor sessions to your group’s age range, interests and learning outcomes.
education@birminghamdogshome.org.uk
Call
0121 643 5211 (Opt 3)
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