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The Tail of The English College’s Wellbeing Woof Officer

by Belinda Breeze

Ziggy, a delightful 4-year-old Shih Tzu, has become an integral part of The English College community, spreading joy, comfort, and support. His presence as our esteemed Wellbeing Woof Officer has been a source of happiness, and a paw-sitive difference for our students and staff.


Trained to respond to various commands, Ziggy is more than just a furry friend — he’s a skilled professional in his own right. Whether he’s sitting politely, giving high fives, or even weaving in and out of legs for a treat, Ziggy’s repertoire of tricks never fails to bring a smile to our faces. But it’s not just his impressive skills that make him stand out; his gentle nature and calming influence make him a beloved companion for all.


The 4-year-old Shih Tzu’s hypoallergenic nature ensures that all students can enjoy his company without fear of allergic reactions. This inclusivity is crucial in fostering a sense of belonging and wellbeing within our school community, as every child deserves to benefit from his presence.

Attributed by Kimberly Highland, Marketing Manager at The English College Dubai and Wellbeing Woof Officer

But Ziggy’s role goes beyond simply being a source of comfort; he’s also a valuable asset in supporting language development, particularly for students whose first language isn’t English. His presence creates a relaxed and supportive environment where students feel more confident in expressing themselves and understanding instructions. Through interactions with Ziggy, students improve their language skills while also gaining a sense of confidence and belonging.


Introducing Ziggy into our school community has been about more than just having a furry friend around; it’s about fostering a culture of inclusivity, empathy, and support. His impact on our students’ emotional wellbeing and academic performance has been invaluable, and we’re grateful to have him as a member of our team.


As we continue on this journey with Ziggy by our side, we’re excited to see the positive changes he’ll continue to bring to our school community. So, here’s to Ziggy – our Wellbeing Woof Officer.

To meet Ziggy and explore the rest of our dedicated staff,