Education Support Dog

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.

Nuriootpa High School has teamed up with Dogs Connect and Adelaide Groodles to bring these benefits to our school through the introduction of an Education Support Dog.

The initiative has strong support of students, staff, Governing Council and broader community stakeholders including Enhance Barossa Mental Health Alliance.

Nuriootpa High School’s Education Support Dog, Alfie, will begin transition visits in terms three and four 2026, with a three-day-a-week timetable implemented from 2027. Student participation in the program, and interaction with Alfie, is entirely optional.

Students, staff and site visitors are asked to adhere to the ‘three golden expectations’:

  1. Say hello to the person, not the dog!
  2. Give lots of space when you pass!
  3. Keep moving – don’t stand and stare!

A message from Alfie

I’m not on site yet, but I’m getting ready!

I am kind, brave and curious. I love to play, snack and sleep. Every day I’m learning a little more about how to support students and spread joy at Nuriootpa High School….I’m also getting quite good at the ‘sit’ thing.

I’ve been having fun getting to know each of my staff handlers, but I can’t wait to meet everyone at school!

Alfie fast facts

Favourite toy: Whatever I’m currently carrying

Favourite subject: Lunchtime

Career goal: Professional student greeter

Special skill: Making people smile

Alfie's sponsors

The Vet Clinic Angaston – Generously providing expert care and advice to keep Alfie healthy and happy.

Petstock Nuriootpa – Supporting Alfie to become the best support dog he can be through providing professional puppy pre-schooling.

NexGard Spectra – Protecting Alfie from fleas, ticks and worms so he remains healthy and safe while meeting new friend

Alfie's core staff handlers

  • Nuriootpa High School wellbeing team (Ms Nikki McCarthy,  Ms Olivia Jones, Mr Rick Lane, Ms Dee Roesler and Mr Lachie Fuss)
  • Ms Natalie Halls-Jones
  • Ms Deb Robertson
  • Ms Elaine Richardson
  • Ms Tegan Simmons
  • Ms Yonna Taylor
  • Ms Samantha Whitington