In very exciting news……St Joseph’s is getting its own School Support Dog!! 

Why do we need a support dog?

• Increase in school attendance,
• Gains in confidence and increased motivation,
• Decrease in learner anxiety behaviours, resulting in improved learning outcomes,
• Enhanced relationships with peers and teachers due to experiencing trust and unconditional love.

Important information:

• The dog is on a lead at all times and must have a handler with it (who is not the classroom teacher) for safety
• Dog will not go near children when they are eating or near food preparation areas
• The dog will not go near students who have allergies or a fear of dogs
• The dog is of mature age, trained and very familiar with children.

Further information was sent via Compass to families this week, including the School Support Dog Policy. If your child has an allergy to dogs, a fear of dogs or you have any questions or concerns, please contact me.