General News
5 April, 2025
Poppie’s a smart learner
A FURRY friend has joined Bridgewater Primary School this week all the way from the Northern Territory. Poppie, the wellbeing dog, is assisting in the classroom with her owner, Emalee Deane who teaches the junior school students. Emalee adopted...
A FURRY friend has joined Bridgewater Primary School this week all the way from the Northern Territory.
Poppie, the wellbeing dog, is assisting in the classroom with her owner, Emalee Deane who teaches the junior school students.
Emalee adopted Poppie while she was teaching in the Northern Territory and has since completed the Dogs Connect wellbeing dog training with her.
Having a school dog can help with school attendance, communication, leadership and behaviour.
Currently students from foundation to Year Two are reading with Poppie to build on their reading skills and confidence.
Emalee said: “She’s only been here for a couple of days, but the kids already love having her in the classroom with them as well as during recess and lunch when they can play with her.” Principal Matt Lehane said the school community was excited to have Poppie as its wellbeing dog.
He said the school’s chicken yard had also been expanded in recent weeks.
The school council annual meeting has seen Leah Bailey re-elected president with vice-president Kate Chandler and treasurer Jemma Wybar.
- RUBY HYLAND