Canine Comprehension

Canine Comprehension Update

This term, students have been engaging in the Canine Comprehension program alongside their tutor, Sam, and our amazing new furry friend, Cooper the dog. Together, they’ve been exploring emotional literacy, developing communication skills, and building stronger connections to their peers and school community.

So far, students have delved into understanding worry. What it is, why we feel it, and how it affects us. They’ve been learning to identify a wide range of emotions, recognise similarities between their own feelings and those of others, and deepen their empathy.

They’ve also explored the concept of self-talk, how our inner voice influences our emotions and behaviour, and developed strategies to manage it in healthy ways. One key tool they’ve focused on is the “3 Cs”: Catch it, Check it, and Change it, which helps students reflect on their thoughts and reframe them positively.

Additionally, the group has been learning to read body language, both in Cooper and in the people around them. They’ve celebrated both little wins and big wins, recognising personal growth and supporting each other’s successes.

Johnathan Patatsos

Mental Health & Wellbeing Leader