ECE Teachers' Survey Summary 2026

Every year, we invite teachers to share their experiences, ideas and feedback about the SPCA Education Programme and the resources available to support animal welfare learning.

Our 2026 Teachers' Survey provided valuable insights into how kaiako are using our resources, the topics and learning experiences that interest them, and the opportunities to better support teaching and learning in early childhood settings.

We are incredibly grateful to all the kaiako who took the time to participate. Your feedback helps us understand what's working well, identify areas for improvement and recognise where new resources, guidance and learning opportunities could make a difference.

What you'll find in the summary:

• What teachers value about SPCA Education resources and learning experiences.

• How resources are being used to support teaching and learning.

• The topics and animal welfare themes teachers would like to explore further.

• Opportunities to improve existing resources and develop new content.

• Ideas for strengthening teacher engagement and support.

Thank you for helping us make animal welfare education meaningful, accessible and relevant for tamariki and kaiako.

Early Childhood Educators Advisory Group

How you can help shape the future of SPCA Education.

We're looking to connect with early childhood teachers who are interested in sharing their knowledge, experiences and ideas to help shape the future of SPCA Education.

Our Early Childhood Educators Advisory Group will provide an opportunity for kaiako to contribute to the development and improvement of our early childhood resources, learning experiences and teacher support materials.

We want to hear about what works in your learning environment, the challenges you encounter and the ideas you have for making animal welfare education engaging, meaningful and accessible for tamariki.

We know teaching workloads ebb and flow, and we want involvement to be flexible and manageable for everyone so please note that commitments are fully dependent on your capacity at the time.

What could you contribute?

As part of the group, you'll have opportunities to:

• Share your experiences: Tell us how you use SPCA resources and what works well in your early childhood setting.

• Shape new resources: Contribute ideas and feedback to help develop engaging, age-appropriate animal welfare learning experiences.

• Improve existing resources: Help us make our materials more practical, accessible and relevant to everyday teaching practice.

• Explore new ideas: Share perspectives on current early learning approaches, curriculum connections and opportunities for tamariki to develop empathy, kindness and respect for animals.

• Be part of the conversation: Help us understand the needs of kaiako and identify ways SPCA Education can better support early childhood settings.

Who can get involved?

We're interested in hearing from a range of early childhood educators, including teachers and kaiako working in different early learning environments. Whether you're a regular user of SPCA resources or are simply passionate about animal welfare education, your perspective is valuable.

You don't need to be an animal welfare expert or have extensive experience with our programme. We're looking for educators who are curious, enthusiastic and willing to share their experiences and ideas.

Interested in being involved?

We'd love to hear from you! Register your interest and tell us a little about yourself and your early childhood setting.

Together, we can create learning experiences that inspire curiosity, nurture empathy and help tamariki develop a lifelong appreciation for animals and their wellbeing.

Your voice can help make a difference.