Meet Kona, A Resident Doggo Of This Singapore School That Joins Kids For Daily Activities

Did you know that there’s an international school with a resident dog? This is Kona, an Educational Assistance Dog at NLCS (Singapore). We learn all about this friendly pooch and how she accompanies students in their lessons and daily activities.

We have to say, if we were kids and there was a friendly dog to look forward to at school each day, school would definitely be our favourite time of the day! That’s exactly what Junior School students at North London Collegiate School (Singapore) have with Kona, the school’s resident Educational Assistance Dog. Kona is part of the daily school routine: she moves between classes, joins discussions, takes part in pastoral activities and offers a reassuring presence that helps students feel supported throughout the day.

A wellbeing initiative beyond emotional regulation and engagement

Think of Kona as a working dog in the school environment, with her own role, routines and boundaries in place. In fact, NLCS (Singapore) boasts as the first international school in Singapore to have a resident, professionally trained Educational Assistance Dog! Kona’s daily school life includes attending assemblies, resting in classrooms, supporting small-group interventions and contributing to pastoral care. Kona, who is 8 years old, began her journey with NLCS (Singapore) in January, although her experience in a school environment began when she was just 8 weeks old, when she started her school assistant dog training!

Kona plays a big role in fostering confidence too. Students often read aloud to her or work quietly with her nearby, making it easier to focus and build confidence. You might spot Kona joining a “Walk and Talk” check-in, where students can check in informally with a trusted adult. She can be sitting next to a student who needs a short break or hanging out with students in class. Through these guided interactions and assemblies, students also learn to understand her body language, respect boundaries and take responsibility, fostering empathy and social awareness across the school.

Building a calm and supportive educational setting

Kona was gradually introduced to the school, following research showing that school-based assistance dogs can boost students’ confidence, help them manage their emotions and increase their engagement. Unlike pet therapy models that rely on scheduled sessions offered at other schools, Kona is part of an ongoing, carefully managed initiative that supports students day to day.

Interaction with Kona is always optional. She only works with students whose parents have given permission, and the school takes care to consider individual comfort levels, allergies and cultural preferences. You’ll often see Kona’s tail wagging because she radiates love for the kids! She has a little gated-off area outside Mrs McCabe-Arnold’s office where she likes to sit, allowing the children to pet her and interact with her as they walk to and from their lessons. Kona’s schedule is also carefully managed to ensure she stays happy and healthy.

Kona is incredibly intuitive too. She keeps her distance when she senses that children might be a little apprehensive, and she seems to know when someone might need a quiet moment. Ultimately, Kona’s calm presence helps create a positive and reassuring school environment, allowing students to feel more at ease and engage more fully in their school activities.

Curious to learn more about NLCS (Singapore)’s distinctive approach to education? Book a personalised school tour to experience the magic firsthand!

North London Collegiate School (Singapore), 130 Depot Road, Singapore 109708, www.nlcssingapore.sg