Service Learning Log

Social Action Campaign - with THE AACL (Anti Animal Cruelty League).

Initiating the campaign was challenging. During my first block in TE, I offered my proposal to the school's principal, who suggested that I approach the organisation that the school works closely with, in terms of social work. Unfortunately, the organisation turned out to be quite difficult to get any type of approval. After much delay and many weeks, I finally found the perfect organisation.

During the second block of my TE, I rewrote my proposal and addressed the principal and HOD in the Foundation Phase. They agreed to the running of the campaign and so it took off. I worked closely with one of the representatives from the AACL, who helped me with information, presentations for the learners as well resources I used for the school to raise awareness.

I found this initiative effective for various reasons:

1. The school's culture toward the initiative grew positively and awareness was spread about proper pet care.

2. Teachers were receptive to the initiative

3. The school atmosphere was stirred up which gave a sense of excitement.

4. Learners gained more understanding of cruelty toward animals.

5. Community and parental involvement was apparent through the collection of donations.

Although it turned out well, the process of the campaign felt like it was a lot and at times, I thought I would not get through it. However, with the assistance of the representative from the AACL as well as the HOD of the Foundation Phase, I managed to meet the deadlines, attend meetings timeously and prepare the school for the campaign according to the school's rules and regulations. This helped me develop a professional identity within that school. It allowed me to grow in terms of the way I present myself, the way I handle challenges and the way I implement knowledge. The goal set out was to get learners and community members involved in donating items for a good cause. Another involved growing awareness of the organisation within the community and school members.

Together with the AACL representative, a talk was scheduled with the foundation phase learners over one morning. Learners arrived at the hall in groups according to grades and enjoyed a meaningful and informative talk about animals, cruelty, pet care and pet food. This was a great idea, as learners were engrossed in the talk which led to open-ended discussions. It was amazing to see how learners used the information they gained through this initiative and discussed it with the representative and other learners. Learners also contributed various types of pet food which was collected throughout the time of the campaign.

On the day of collection, the representative from the AACL came to the school for the handover. Learners along with the HOD of the Foundation Phase and the principal were present, as pictures were taken for an online Facebook Blog which was posted by the AACL upon appreciation of the initiative. A promise was made by the school to continue with the initiative for the AACL from then onwards.

In conclusion, I found the implementation of the social action campaign challenging however in the end it was extremely rewarding. I was able to achieve the goals which were set out in the beginning. The school and learners enjoyed the experience, and the outcome was positive with a lasting effect.