Seymour’s New Furry Friend

‘Ms the dog ate my homework!’ is a common fib Seymour teachers might hear more of , now that the College has welcomed Hunter, a Wellbeing Dog.

Hunter is a three-year old Labrador who was trained by Guide Dogs SA. He is now a Pets as Therapy Dog (PAT), permanently situated on-site at Seymour to assist with student wellbeing and learning. Seymour is the only independent school in South Australia to have a therapy dog permanently on-site.

Already, Hunter has started attending counselling sessions as well as visiting classrooms to sit with the girls for a lesson. Teachers have also found he is making a positive impact on students’ learning and engagement.

Vanessa Browning, the Head of the Junior School says “Some of the girls have had the opportunity to read to him and they do so with real confidence. Hunter’s loving nature helps children to relax, open up, try hard and have fun.”

“We have also found Hunter is very helpful with girls who are distressed from injury or are just having a bad day. He helps them to relax and takes the attention away from their ailment. The benefits with the students and parents has far exceeded my expectations and we are loving having him here”, says Ms Browning.

Seymour College

You may also like

Cover art for Opal Wonders series.

Opal Wonders: A colourful new way to learn about the past

For many of us, a love of history starts not in a classroom, but in a conversation—with a grandparent, a neighbour, or a family friend who shares a story that sparks curiosity. That very idea is at the heart of Opal Wonders, a new five-part animated video series designed for students in Reception to Year 2.

Read More
Two women stand beside a pink banner, smiling and engaging with the audience at an event.

Brighter futures for SA’s young carers

Being a young carer is no small job — and now, thanks to a new partnership between Young Carers SA and national not-for-profit Raise, South Aussie kids aged 13 to 16 who look after family members can access free, expert online mentoring to help them feel supported and seen.

Read More
A man and a boy stand together in front of a school, smiling and enjoying their time outdoors.

Leaps and bounds: Reuben’s inspirational story

When Reuben first began at Christian Brothers College in Reception, he was shy and unsure, with only a few basic words to communicate. Today, he walks through the Junior Campus with confidence – smiling, laughing, and signing with friends and staff who have shared in his remarkable journey.

Read More