Kismet Park Primary School has welcomed a new and rather furry addition to its wellbeing team for 2025 – an eight-year-old Golden Retriever named Ziggy.
Owned by assistant principal Louisa Beckenham, Ziggy has joined the school as part of a new Wellbeing Dog program designed to support the mental and emotional wellbeing of both students and staff.
“Ziggy is a gentle and friendly Golden Retriever who is here to support the wellbeing of our students and staff,” said Mrs Beckenham. “As a wellbeing dog, Ziggy’s role is to provide comfort, companionship, and a sense of calm during the school day.”
The program is based on research that highlights the positive impact of animal-assisted interactions in educational settings, including reduced stress, improved focus, and increased feelings of happiness.
Students at Kismet Park are already embracing Ziggy’s presence by writing letters to him. A special “Ziggy mailbox” has been installed at the school, where children can post messages, drawings, or share their thoughts and feelings.
“Some of the things students have already written to Ziggy include sharing a worry or something that’s been on their mind, something that has made them happy, ideas or suggestions for school improvements, as well as simply saying hello and drawing pictures,” said Mrs Beckenham. “With the help of the wellbeing team, Ziggy will read each letter and may even write back with a friendly reply.”
The school is also using Ziggy’s presence as a teaching opportunity, encouraging students to demonstrate Kismet Park’s core values – Kindness, Resilience, Respect, and ‘Be Your Best’ – while interacting with their new four-legged friend.
Ziggy is already making a big impression, and it seems this golden newcomer is fast becoming one of the most popular members of the Kismet Park community.
