Samantha

Mentor

Samantha is a dedicated primary school teacher with seven years of experience and a deep passion for advocating for students’ mental health and wellbeing. She understands the complexities and increasing need for support among young people and is committed to making a positive, lasting impact on the next generation.

After completing her Bachelor of Education, Samantha built a reputation for creating strong, empathetic relationships with her students. She is known for her warm, compassionate approach to teaching, always putting the child first and ensuring they feel safe, supported, and ready to engage in learning.

Throughout her career, Samantha has witnessed the growing challenges to students’ mental health, particularly in today’s fast-paced world. This has shaped her belief that schools must be nurturing environments where children feel secure and valued – spaces where they can thrive both academically and emotionally.

Samantha’s love for animals, combined with her interest in working dogs, led her to explore animal-assisted therapy. After experiencing the healing presence of her canine companion,
Cooper, during the traumatic Mallacoota bushfires, she pursued certification in animal-assisted therapy in 2021. Since then, Cooper has become an integral part of Samantha’s classroom, offering emotional support and helping to foster positive connections with students.

Together, Samantha and Cooper have seen firsthand the profound impact therapy dogs can have on fostering human connections, building emotional resilience, and supporting students’ mental health and wellbeing. These heartwarming experiences continue to inspire Samantha’s commitment to helping young people feel empowered to face life’s challenges and succeed.

Meet my therapy dog

Cooper the Therapy Dog

Cooper

Cooper is a seven-year-old Labrador cross Rhodesian Ridgeback with a heart as big as his zest for life—and yes, he does have a ridge on his back! Adopted by Samantha at just two years old, Cooper has overcome a challenging start to life, blossoming into a joyful, affectionate dog who absolutely adores people and thrives on human connection.

With his striking orange eyes, Cooper has a way of captivating everyone he meets. Students often say he “stares into their soul,” creating an instant bond and a deep sense of understanding. His bubbly personality and love for affection bring smiles, joy, and a sense of
belonging to all those he encounters.

Cooper has an innate ability to sense human emotions and responds quickly to those in need. Whether offering comforting cuddles or simply being by someone’s side, he provides a calming presence that helps others feel safe and supported. As a therapy dog, Cooper is an
invaluable companion to Samantha in the classroom, helping young people understand emotions, build resilience, and develop important social skills. He’s not just a dog—he’s a teacher, guiding children through emotional growth, body language, and problem-solving.
His connection with students helps them build self-esteem and develop the strength to thrive in their everyday lives.

Cooper’s impact extends beyond the classroom. He’s become a local hero, recognised for his efforts across multiple platforms. He was a finalist in the Australian Dog of the Year, featured in Woman’s Day magazine, and has been featured in Star Mail and other publications.

Above all, Cooper is known for his loyalty and his constant desire to be by his humans’ side, whether in action or simply offering quiet companionship. He has proven time and again that love, empathy, and connection are some of the most powerful tools in the world.