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  3. AADI Wins Rethink Ireland Grant to Expand Groundbreaking School Programme

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  3. AADI Wins Rethink Ireland Grant to Expand Groundbreaking School Programme
9th July 2025

AADI Wins Rethink Ireland Grant to Expand Groundbreaking School Programme




We’re thrilled to share that Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland has been awarded €52,000 from the Rethink Ireland Impact Fund for Munster 2024 – part of a €672,000 fund supporting innovative projects that make Munster greener and more inclusive. 🌱
This investment fuels the expansion of our Animal Assisted Education Programme (AAEP) – Ireland’s first full-time, in-school, educational assistance dog mode, designed to benefit both neurodivergent and neurotypical students.


🧠 Why This Matters


In our pilot and initial phase across 10 schools, AAEP has already created powerful change:
70% of students feel less stressed, with 77% saying they feel safer at school.
83% of staff report academic gains, including improved focus and test performance.
75% of teachers noticed enhanced social interaction among students.
50% of parents observed lower anxiety in their children.
Our model is rooted in scientific research, supported by educator training, and built to promote inclusive learning environments.


💰 How the €52,000 Will Be Used


This funding helps us scale and sustain the programme through:


🔬 Looking Ahead


We’re not just growing – we’re building a lasting system of support for schools, students, and educators. Our research-led approach will inform policy, and our scalable model aims to bring this transformative work to even more communities.


💙 Thank You


To Rethink Ireland and its donors, we are deeply grateful. Your belief in the power of inclusive innovation is helping us calm classrooms, connect students, and change lives.
👉 Learn more or support our mission: