Hairy Connections

What is Hairy Connections?

Hairy Connections is the name of our animal-assisted 

program. Animals have a unique ability to create calm, supportive, and engaging environments for students. Research has shown that animal-assisted programs, like 'Hairy Connections', can offer numerous benefits, including:

• Enhanced emotional regulation and stress reduction
• Increased student engagement and motivation
• Development of empathy, patience, and responsibility
• Support for trauma-informed and inclusive education
• Opportunities for hands-on learning connected to curriculum areas such as Sustainability, and Personal and Social Capability

‘Hairy Connections’ will build upon these benefits, offering a multi-faceted approach that integrates sustainability, personal and social capability, and ethical responsibility.

How will Hairy Connections Work?

The program will run differently depending on which animal is being included in a session. This program will operate within our Green Nest outdoor learning area and will be based on activities drawn from the Berry Street Education Model. Our Green Nest is a safe and supportive learning environment.

Each animal will play a distinct role in supporting learning and wellbeing:

Equine-Supported Learning (ESL) – with Bluey the pony. 

Note: Tiny Tucker and Misty are in training

• Supports the development of emotional regulation, resilience, and trust-building
• Encourages self-reflection, mindfulness, and confidence.
• Provides therapeutic benefits for students needing additional emotional support
• Aligns with the Berry Street Education Model for trauma-informed education

Guinea Pigs – Gentle, Social Companions

• Provides a calming presence, helping students manage anxiety and stress.
• Promotes communication and teamwork, as students help with their care.
• Serves as a special reward, recognising students who demonstrate effort in their learning and uphold our school values.

Chickens – Sustainability and Responsibility

• Offers hands-on learning experiences in life cycles, food production, and sustainability
• Encourages routine, responsibility, and teamwork
• Provide a sense of connection to nature and ethical farming practices

How Does the Hairy Connections Program Align with the Victorian Curriculum?

The program will be embedded into learning experiences that align with the Victorian Curriculum, particularly in the following areas:

• Personal and Social Capability – Self-awareness, emotional regulation, and teamwork
• Ethical Capability – Responsibility and care for animals, sustainability Science – Understanding life cycles, ecosystems, and biodiversity
• Health and Wellbeing – Mindfulness, resilience, and emotional literacy

Who Will Participate?

All students from Foundation to Grade 6 will have opportunities to engage with Hairy Connections at some point. Targeted groups will participate in Equine-Supported Learning (ESL). High-ability students may engage in leadership roles within the program, assisting in care and educational activities. We are currently training our 'Student Wellbeing' Team and our dedicated 'Poop Scoopers' team. Students from Prep - Grade 2, have been heading out to the Green Nest, during their Health Bodies lessons. As part of their Green Nest Discovery lessons, they have been learning about the animals in the Green Nest, including where they live and what they eat. 

How Will Safety Be Ensured?

The wellbeing of students and animals is our highest priority. We will ensure:

• School staff guide and oversee all interactions. 
• Specific training will be provided for staff members involved with the program.
• Hygiene protocols are in place to ensure safe handling of animals. 
• Protective clothing will be worn, when necessary, to prevent allergens
• Supervised sessions with structured activities to ensure safety for both students and animals.

Potential Questions:

Will students be required to handle the animals?

No, participation is voluntary, and students can engage at their own comfort level.

How will allergies be managed?

Parents have been asked to complete a form to notify the school of any specific animal allergies. 

What if my child is nervous around animals?

The program is designed to be gentle and student-led, ensuring children can participate in a way that is comfortable for them.

Will parents need to provide permission? 

Yes. Written parental permission will be required for students to participate in the Hairy Connections program, covering the handling of the chickens and guinea pigs. Specific permission will be required for students to participate in the Equine-Supported Learning, which will be sought when students are considered for the program.

How can I learn more?

We will share updates via Compass and the Epsom Gazette. Parents are encouraged to reach out to the school office with any questions.