From Our Principal

The vital role of animals

Tuesday, 18 February 2025
I trust your family has enjoyed a positive start to the school year. Walking around the college this week, I was reminded of the vital role animals play in our wellbeing. I saw lambs being bottle fed by students, day old chickens in the ag area, a visiting dog and guinea pigs in a classroom. Animals have a remarkable way of teaching us responsibility, empathy, and the importance of connection.

John Robinson

Principal

Many studies highlight the benefits of interacting with animals — lowering stress levels, boosting mood, and even improving focus and social skills. This is something we see firsthand at Investigator. Caring for and learning from animals fosters a deep sense of responsibility and kindness in students, qualities that extend into their relationships with peers and the wider world.

On a personal note, I recently purchased two chickens that our students raised through our agriculture program, and they have settled beautifully into farm life at my place. They are so quiet and lovely, a true testament to the care and dedication our students put into raising them. It’s moments like these that highlight the real-world impact of hands-on learning and the valuable life skills our students gain through these experiences.

With that in mind, I’m excited to remind you about our annual Dogs in the Quad event on from 8:15am on 28 February! Families are encouraged to bring their well-behaved dogs along and enjoy a cup of coffee while connecting with other members of our fabulous school community. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the joy that animals bring to our lives while strengthening the bonds between families, students, and staff.

We look forward to seeing many of you — and your four-legged friends — there!

Warm regards,

John Robinson
Principal

John Robinson
Principal
learn@investigator.sa.edu.au

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