Education Programmes
Inspiring the next generation of animal advocates
At the NSPCA, we believe education is one of the most powerful tools in preventing animal cruelty and creating lasting change for animals.
Our education programmes are designed to inspire kindness, empathy and responsible animal care among people of all ages. Every year, we engage with thousands of children, young people and adults through talks, tours, camps and hands-on learning experiences that help build a more compassionate future for animals.
By educating communities about animal welfare, responsible pet ownership and the needs of animals, we are helping to create a society where every animal is treated with kindness and respect.
Education Talks
The NSPCA provides educational talks, both in person and online, to schools, colleges and community groups across Ireland.
Our talks can be tailored to suit different ages and abilities, helping participants learn about animal welfare, responsible pet ownership and the important work of the NSPCA. We believe it is never too early to teach children that animals deserve care, compassion and respect.
Interested in arranging a talk?
Contact info@nspca.ie
Kids Camps
Our popular Kids Camps combine fun, creativity and learning during school holidays.
Children take part in activities including arts and crafts, baking, nature walks, treasure hunts and animal welfare workshops while learning about responsible pet ownership, animal safety and caring for animals.
Participants also have the opportunity to meet some of the animals in our care and learn more about the work of the NSPCA.
All camps take place at NSPCA Dublin in Rathfarnham, Dublin 16.
Work Experience
School Work Experience / Transition Year: The NSPCA offers work experience opportunities for Transition Year students in our Dublin, Wicklow and Longford shelters,
This is a hands-on and rewarding week-long placement where students will be at the heart of animal care. The role is active, outdoors, and involves plenty of cleaning, so it’s important to be prepared for physical work, all weather conditions and, naturally, a lot of poo!
Students will assist with cleaning and maintaining animal areas, walking and socialising dogs, and supporting the day-to-day care of cats and dogs under staff supervision.
Placements run Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 4:30pm, and participants should have a genuine comfort around cats and dogs of all breeds and sizes.
In return, students will gain valuable experience in animal welfare, develop practical animal handling skills, meet lots of wonderful animals, and make a real difference to the lives of cats and dogs in our care. ALL students fundraise in advance of their work experience.
Apply for Transition Year Work Experience
2026/2027
Applications remain open for the 2026/2027 Transition Year Work Experience Programme at our Longford and Wicklow shelters:
Dublin TY Work Experience for 2026/2027 is currently full, but if you would like to be added to the cancellation list, you can do so via our NSPCA Dublin TY 2026/2027 Cancellation List here.
2027/2028
To be notified when our 2027/2028 TY Applications open, please fill out an Expression of Interest form:
CAO Veterinary Practical Experience & International/Erasmus Student Work Experience
This programme offers a real insight into life in an animal welfare environment. It is a hands-on experience where you will work alongside our animal care team and gain a genuine understanding of what it takes to care for animals in a busy rescue shelter.
Participants must be over 17 years of age.
You will assist with the daily care of cats and dogs, including cleaning animal areas, supporting enrichment and socialisation activities, and helping to maintain high welfare standards throughout the shelter. The role is active, outdoors, and involves plenty of practical work, making it ideal for those considering a future career working with animals.
Please note that due to our rural shelter locations, limited public transport options, and surrounding country roads without footpaths, participants must have access to their own transport. We are unable to provide travel expenses, transport to and from the shelter, or accommodation.
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer work experience placements to students under 17 years of age. Our placements are limited to transition year students, CAO veterinary applicants and international/Erasmus students who meet the minimum age requirement.
For more information please review our application form: