Jigsaw RE’s enquiries on Ethical Veganism are designed to spark curiosity and thoughtful reflection among young learners. Ethical choices, such as veganism, are gaining importance in today’s world, particularly in relation to sustainability, animal welfare, and health. With the growing awareness around the environment and ethics, it is essential to introduce these ideas early.
What is Ethical Veganism?
According to The Vegan Society, “Veganism is a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude—as far as is possible and practicable—all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose; and by extension, promotes the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of animals, humans, and the environment.” This concept goes beyond dietary choices to include concern for animals, the environment, and promoting kindness.
“Ethical Veganism” has been ruled to be a philosophical belief in the UK in an employment tribunal. This means that Ethical Veganism is recognised as a protected characteristic in accordance with the Equality Act 2010, which means it is unlawful to discriminate against an individual who is an ethical vegan.
Why Teach This to Young Children?
Now that Ethical Veganism constitutes a philosophical belief, it is a worldview. Teaching children about a variety of worldviews, including non-religious worldviews such as ethical veganism, encourages them to engage with issues like compassion and sustainability, equipping them with the tools for making conscious, thoughtful decisions as they grow. Introducing ethical concepts at an early age helps children develop empathy, responsibility, and a connection to the world around them. It fosters critical thinking and values-based learning, which are key components of their development.
Engaging and Age-Appropriate Learning
These resources are specially tailored for ages 5-11 and feature interactive and engaging content. With a variety of activities such as storytelling, music, art, and cooking, children can explore the subject in a relatable way. Authentic voices from the vegan community, along with discussions prompted by Jigsaw RE, ensure the material is approachable, supporting the children in their understanding that a person’s beliefs can lead to aligned actions. Activities like understanding where food comes from and the impact of choices on the planet make these abstract ideas more tangible.
Empowering Children to Make Ethical Choices
These enquiries do not aim to impose any specific lifestyle on children but instead provide them with the tools to explore ethical questions independently. It encourages children to think about their impact on the world, from their food to the broader implications of their choices on animal welfare and the environment.
Cross-Curricular Connections
Ethical Veganism ties into multiple subjects, enhancing learning across the curriculum. In science[1], children can explore ecosystems and biodiversity. Geography lessons can cover global food sources and environmental impact. Through PSHE[2], they can engage in discussions about social responsibility and ethics, broadening their understanding of how their choices affect the world. The enquiries also align with promoting British values, specifically encouraging respect for different beliefs, and fostering pupils’ Spiritual, Moral, Social, and Cultural (SMSC) development, which is a key focus in schools.
Call to Action
We encourage teachers and educators to explore this resource, allowing children to learn about the world we live in and the impact of our choices. With these enquiries, educators can inspire meaningful conversations and help shape a more compassionate and conscious generation.
Conclusion
These enquiries empower young minds to care for the world around them, making Ethical Veganism a powerful step toward fostering a kinder, more sustainable future for all.
[1]The topics of ecosystems, biodiversity, and human impact on the environment align with the science curriculum, particularly in the areas of “Living things and their habitats” (Key Stage 1 and 2) and “Evolution and inheritance” (Key Stage 2).
[2] Ethical veganism fits naturally within the Personal, Social, Health, and Economic (PSHE) education framework, particularly in the area of promoting respect for others, personal development, and teaching about global citizenship.
