What's up dog?

Iris is an internationally qualified Facility Dog through Guide Dogs Australia. Iris’ full-time role is to support and enhance the learning environment for students at Wirreanda Secondary School, Morphett Vale SA, contributing to the physical, social and cognitive development of the young people. Together with her handler, Iris works with teachers and support staff to understand the young person's needs. Iris provides benefits in learning, engagement, emotional regulation, exposure therapy and social connection.

Iris has been supporting and enhancing the learning environment for students at Wirreanda Secondary School since 2020. In 2022, Iris’ hard work was recognised by the Department for Education South Australia at the Public Education Awards, winning the Site Based Support Award. This is the first time a dog has been awarded this achievement.

With the goal of supporting all students, Iris provides cross-site support through individual, group and class sessions across four different faculties (Alternative Learning, Wellbeing, Inclusive Learning, Disability Unit and Special Classes.) Key tasks across these faculties include:

• Supporting students experiencing personal difficulties and/or trauma with deep pressure therapy and chin rests. This has positive impacts on the emotional state of vulnerable students with complex backgrounds, including mental health, grief, suicidal ideations and disabilities.

• Students participate in calming walks and mindfulness activities with Iris to regulate emotions. Physical health is improved by reducing stress, motivation to move and stimulating senses. These activities encourage trust and connection through conversation between student and handler.

• Responding to anxieties and barriers faced by students when challenged with everyday tasks. Iris has assisted students in exposure to activities and situations that have been an anxiety source. Examples of these activities include social interaction with others, challenging personal habits, approaching uncomfortable spaces, public transport, participation in short courses, events and excursions.

• Providing incentive to attend school/class and encouraging students to relax and focus. This results in engagement to learning, reducing barriers and increased connection between staff and students.

• Providing a mutual topic for discussion, improving social interaction. Guided activities and group discussions educate students how to handle interpersonal conflicts and develop constructive responses.

• Iris’ presence within the workplace improves staff morale, reduces stress levels and encourages communication and connection within the workplace.

In 2023 Iris directly worked with 349 students and totalled 3879 interactions with staff, students and broader school community. Current data reflects that 92.5% of students working with Iris feel happy, calm, relaxed and focused after working with her.

Iris demonstrates going above and beyond supporting people in need and is deserving of the Dog with a Job Award. Further evidence of Iris’ role can be viewed through the following social pages:
Facebook: WSS Facility Dog or Instagram: wss_facility_dog