SCHOOLS & EDUCATION

Learning That Connects Students to Life, History and Community

 

The Australian Pigeon Council Ltd (APCL) is developing a hands-on, real-world learning experiences through its Community Loft & Museum Hubs, giving students the opportunity to engage with animals, science, history and people in a meaningful, memorable way.

 

Our programs are designed to complement the Australian Curriculum while also supporting social development, wellbeing and intergenerational connection.

 

Curriculum-Aligned Learning

APCL’s education programs support learning outcomes across multiple curriculum areas, including:

Science

Students explore:

  • Animal biology and behaviour

  • Navigation and homing instincts

  • Environmental care and responsibility

  • Observation, recording and data collection

History & Humanities

Students learn about:

  • The role of pigeons in wartime communication

  • The history of pigeons in Australia

  • The relationship between humans, animals and technology

Civics & Citizenship

Students experience:

  • Community participation

  • Volunteering and service

  • Respect for others, including elderly and disabled people

Health & Wellbeing

Students develop:

  • Empathy

  • Emotional awareness

  • Confidence and communication

  • Responsibility and care for living things

Intergenerational Learning

At APCL Community Loft & Museum hubs, students don’t just learn from books — they learn from people.

Through guided visits and programs, students interact with:

  • Elderly participants

  • People living with disability

  • Volunteers and mentors

This creates:

  • Respect across generations

  • Improved social skills

  • Greater understanding of diversity and inclusion

  • Real-world life learning

What Students Experience

A visit to an APCL Community Loft & Museum includes:

  • Hands-on pigeon care and observation

  • Learning how birds navigate and communicate

  • Meeting community members who care for the birds

  • Exploring museum exhibits

  • Participating in guided educational activities

This type of learning builds:

  • Curiosity

  • Confidence

  • Memory

  • Emotional connection

Case Study – The Mallee Classic Internationale

Before APCL was formally established as a charity, our team operated the Mallee Classic Internationale One Loft Event.

During this event:

  • Funds were raised for charitable purposes

  • People living with disabilities visited the lofts

  • Visitors and students interacted with pigeons

  • Social and educational engagement occurred in a real-world setting

This experience demonstrated the powerful educational and social impact of combining animals, community and participation — and it directly inspired the APCL model.

Why This Matters to Schools and Funders

APCL programs:

  • Support curriculum learning

  • Improve student wellbeing

  • Build empathy and inclusion

  • Provide real-world experiences

  • Create intergenerational understanding

For philanthropic partners, this means:

One investment supports education, mental health, community inclusion and animal welfare at the same time.

Schools Are Welcome

APCL invites schools, teachers and education providers to partner with us as our Community Loft & Museum network develops.

👉 [Contact Us to Arrange a School Visit or Partnership]