SUPPORTING OUR STUDENTS WITH FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS
There’s about to be more four-legged friends at schools across Victoria as part of an Allan Labor Government program to give students the wellbeing and mental health support they need.
101 schools across Victoria will receive a grant as part of the Animal-assisted Wellbeing and Engagement Program.
Schools will share in more than $1.7 million to implement new or expand existing animal- assisted wellbeing and engagement programs.
Macedon electorate schools have received the following:
• Kyneton High School will receive $3,536 and Langley Primary School will receive $35,709 for school support animal and/or equipment and professional development in animal-assisted programs.
• Macedon Primary School will receive $19,900 and Trentham Primary School will receive $52,180 to work with an external organisation to provide animal-assisted
activities
The initiative aims to help students build confidence and social connections, enhance empathy and strengthen emotional regulation.
Existing animal-assisted wellbeing and engagement programs in schools are already delivering these benefits and helping students to engage in learning more effectively, leading to improved attendance.
Most of the programs support students through activities involving dogs and horses which are trained to work alongside their handlers.
At some schools, students are improving literacy skills by reading books to dogs, others are building confidence and trust by working with horses.
Some schools have a support animal trained to work at their school under the care of a certified handler, while other schools work with certified external providers to tailor weekly wellbeing and engagement activities for students.
The Labor Government is investing $4.8 million over three years to ensure more students can benefit from animal-assisted wellbeing and engagement programs at their school and prioritising services for students with disability and additional needs.
Round two grant applications will open to schools in Term 2.
Quote attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas
“Congratulations to our local schools. Support animals have a huge impact on the wellbeing and engagement of students, helping them to participate, learn and succeed at school. Having more furry friends in the classroom is always a good thing.”
Quotes attributable to Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll
“School can be a stressful time for some students and we know animals have a remarkable ability to help students feel safe and calm, so we’re making sure students who need this support most – can get it.”
“Our schools have a vital role to play in boosting the wellbeing of all our students, and this program will no doubt help our students in the classroom.”
