Meet Alfie, a three-month old standard Groodle. Descendent from successive generations of Groodle canines known for their empathetic nature, hypoallergenic coat (single-hair, low to no shedding and minimal dander) and excellent health, like many of his Adelaide Groodles relatives, Alfie is destined to provide connection and improve wellbeing.
The benefits of an Education Support Dog (sometimes referred to as an assistance or wellbeing dog) are well documented. Research demonstrates that dogs like Alfie can support positive school culture, improve student wellbeing and emotional regulation and increase engagement in learning.
“Alfie will spend time around the school in various locations like the library, open space and wellbeing, and may be invited into classrooms to support teaching and learning,” explained Ms Nikki McCarthy, Director of People and Culture and Education Support Dog lead.
Alfie will work alongside specially trained Nuriootpa High School staff and have a carefully planned timetable, that supports both his wellbeing and that of the school community. Alfie’s transition visits will occur throughout terms three and four, with the view to being on site three days a week in 2027.
“Our core staff handlers have undergone specialised training through Dogs Connect to develop the skills and knowledge to ensure that Alfie is successfully integrated into our school community, and his day-to-day role is effectively managed,” said Ms McCarthy.
Alfie’s core staff handlers:
- Wellbeing staff: Nikki McCarthy, Olivia Jones, Rick Lane, Dee Roesler and Lachie Fuss
- Teaching staff: Nat Halls-Jones, Samantha Whitington and Tegan Simmons
- Support staff: Deb Robertson, Elaine Richardson and Yonna Taylor
As Alfie is integrated into school life students will be explicitly taught and reminded of the ‘three golden expectations’ to support effective interactions:
- Say hello to the person, not the dog.
- Give lots of space when passing by.
- Keep moving – don’t stop and stare.
For further information and updates, refer to our Education Support Dog page.
Alfie is generously supported by The Vet Clinic Angaston , Petstock Nuriootpa and NexGard Spectra