Schools in Kent will be the first to benefit from a trailblazing programme run by the RSPCA to help teach children about animal welfare.

The six-week programme will include lesson plans, fun games, fundraising, and inspirational updates on dogs and cats from the charity’s animal centre in Leybourne.

The pilot scheme, called Class that Cares, is looking for primary schools to team up with the animal welfare charity to teach pupils about compassion and respect.

It will be limited to 20 schools, but if successful could be rolled out across the whole of England and Wales.

Miranda Goodenough, head of innovation and strategy at the RSPCA, said: “This is a brilliant scheme that hopes to inspire children to love and care for animals as much as we do, and teach them important life lessons along the way.

“As well as fitting into the curriculum, the lesson plans will also highlight the five welfare needs which include a safe place to live, food and water, behaviour, the right to company, and good health.

“This is a great opportunity to teach children core values such as compassion and respect with the help of some lovely, fluffy animals.”

The scheme works by asking classes to sponsor either kennels or cat pods at the RSPCA Leybourne Animal Centre in Castle Way.

Videos and updates will be supplied to the school alongside teaching materials, so children can gain an insight into the needs of their sponsored furry friends.

To take part, classes need to raise £30 over six weeks, around £1 per pupil, and the charity also has some fundraising ideas on offer.

The final date for applications is Friday, May 19, with the scheme set to be launched in schools on Monday, June 5. To sign up, click here