Nuriootpa High School have begun working with Dogs Connect to further enhance wellbeing and connection. The program involves welcoming a specially trained dog into the school community as a calming, friendly and trusted presence for student and staff alike.

“Our wellbeing dog is someone – with a wagging tail! – to help make school feel a little more connected, settled and positive,” explained Ms Niki McCarthy, Director of People and Culture.

Research, and anecdotal experience from other schools, demonstrates that wellbeing dogs can have a powerful impact. Their presence can help reduce stress and anxiety, support emotional regulation, build social connection, and generally create opportunities for students to feel safe, supported and engaged. For some students, interacting with a wellbeing dog can make it easier to attend school, participate in learning, or simply have a moment of calm during a busy day.

“We have received strong support for this initiative from not only our staff and students, but Governing Council and members of the Enhance Barossa Mental Health alliance,” said Ms McCarthy.

The program will be implemented gradually and thoughtfully, with a strong focus on safety and comfort. A trained team of staff will lead the program and ensure that all interactions are structured, purposeful and aligned to school wellbeing practices.

The dog will begin half-day transition visits in Terms 3 and 4 this year, with a view to being at school three days a week in 2027, and will have a structured timetable, and only be invited into classrooms with staff, student and parent/caregiver consent. Student participation in the program and interaction with the wellbeing dog is entirely optional, and students will be supported to engage in way that feel right for them, including not engaging at all if it is their preference.

For further information about the Dogs Connect program, visit dogsconnect.net.au or watch the Community Introduction video.