Introducing Oakley – Narrabundah Early Childhood School’s Therapy Dog
Narrabundah Early Childhood School is proud to introduce Oakley, our school therapy dog, as part of a new initiative designed to support the health and wellbeing of students within our school community.
Our Business Manager, Erin Stewart, has completed specialised training alongside Oakley to become a certified human–canine therapy team through Therapy Dogs Australia. As part of this certification process, Oakley demonstrated an appropriate temperament, excellent manners and strong impulse control, confirming her suitability to work with children in a school environment under Erin’s direct supervision. Erin has also completed training in animal handling, canine behaviour and animal welfare, ensuring she can safely and responsibly manage a therapy dog in an educational setting.
The Benefits of Therapy Dogs in Schools
Research increasingly highlights the positive impact animals can have on human health and wellbeing. The relationship between humans and animals—often referred to as the Human–Animal Bond (HAB)—has been shown to provide both physiological and emotional benefits.
Interactions with therapy animals may help to:
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Lower blood pressure
- Increase levels of oxytocin (the hormone associated with bonding and connection)
- Reduce cortisol levels (a stress hormone)
- Promote feelings of comfort, safety and wellbeing
In educational settings, therapy dogs can also support student engagement and learning. Because animals are non-judgemental and offer unconditional companionship, they can help children feel more relaxed and confident. This can encourage participation in classroom activities and strengthen positive relationships between students and educators.
Supporting Student Wellbeing at NECS
Through Oakley’s presence at Narrabundah Early Childhood School, we aim to support:
- Student engagement in learning
- Social skill development
- Emotional regulation and calming strategies
- Positive school transitions and classroom readiness
- Opportunities for connection and comfort
Oakley may work with students in a variety of ways including:
- Individual wellbeing support
- Small group activities
- Classroom visits
- Supporting morning transitions into classrooms
- Participation in selected school events
Safety, Consent and Student Choice
Interactions with Oakley are completely voluntary for both students and staff. Children will only interact with Oakley if they feel comfortable doing so.
Oakley will always be under Erin’s direct supervision and managed through verbal commands, a lead and appropriate equipment to ensure safe interactions. As the school environment can be busy and stimulating, Oakley will not attend school every day. Her wellbeing will be closely monitored to ensure she remains comfortable and happy in her role.
Families who prefer their child not to interact with Oakley can request a Non-Consent or Consent Withdrawal for Canine Interaction Form from the school administration. Staff will ensure appropriate arrangements are in place to respect these preferences.
Health, Hygiene and Risk Management
The health and safety of students and staff remains our highest priority. Oakley maintains high standards of health and hygiene, including:
- Regular grooming and bathing
- Routine veterinary health checks
- Up-to-date vaccinations
- Preventative treatments for fleas, ticks and worms
Students and staff will also be encouraged to practise good hygiene, such as washing or sanitising their hands after interacting with Oakley.
A risk management plan and additional information for families—including frequently asked questions about allergies, safety and health—are available through the school office.
Supporting Children with Allergies or Fears
We recognise that some children may have allergies, fears or phobias related to animals. Interactions with Oakley are always optional, and arrangements can be made to ensure children who are uncomfortable around dogs are supported appropriately. Alternate meeting locations can also be arranged if required.
Some children may gradually build confidence around animals by observing Oakley from a distance, while others may prefer not to interact at all—both choices will always be respected.
We thank families for their ongoing support and look forward to sharing Oakley’s adventures at school.
Please note: As Oakley has completed specialised training to work in a school environment, no other animals are permitted on school grounds without prior written approval from the school leadership team.
About Oakley 🐾
- Name: Oakley Age: 3 years old
- Breed: Cavoodle
- Role: NECS Therapy Dog
- Handler: Erin Stewart, Business Manager
- Oakley is a friendly and affectionate cavoodle who loves meeting new people.
- She enjoys cuddles, playing with toys and sitting beside students for a gentle pat.
- Her soft curly coat and low-shedding breed make her suitable for many people who may have sensitivities to pet hair.
Fun facts about Oakley:
- Loves cuddles and belly rubs
- Always excited to meet new friends
- Enjoys quiet time sitting beside students
- Has a soft white curly coat
