Newsroom

St Columba College is excited to announce the launch of the 'Dogs Connect' program at our Junior School. This new wellbeing program will see the introduction of Ziggy, who will become a much-loved and important member of our community.

Schools with a wellbeing dog have experienced a positive impact on school attendance and improved student behaviour. It also assists children to develop their communication skills with peers and gives them a sense of responsibility.

In one Dogs Connect survey, 92% of students said they felt more relaxed during teaching and learning time when there was a dog in the classroom.

The Dogs Connect program will provide support to the College in implementing this gradually, thoroughly, and considerately. At this stage we encourage anyone who would like to know more about this program to look through the website links below:

We are very excited to be introducing Ziggy next term. He is a 2-year-old medium-sized Groodle (Golden Retriever/Poodle), and has been selected due to his gentle temperament, hypoallergenic coat and willingness to work. We have a core team of staff who have been through the Dogs Connect training and will be handling the dog at school. 

We would also like to assure the community that this program will not involve anyone who does not wish to be involved. We know that this work will have a really positive impact on many people in our community, and we acknowledge and respect that connection with our wellbeing dog will be offered on a great variety of levels.

Dogs Connect Introduction Video