For a number of months we have been discussing the benefits of a school dog. Charley, a Labradoodle puppy, has joined Sarah’s (Headteacher) family at just 8 weeks old and will busy learning lots of things so that he can meet the children at TWS. There are a number of school dogs already in post locally and around the country. I am sure you will agree that this is an exciting opportunity for the school, but may have some questions. Outlined below is some more information about having a school dog.

What are the benefits of a school dog?

 A calming effect on pupils, particularly those with emotional needs

 Encouraging expression, participation and shared attention

 Fostering a sense of responsibility

 Improved behaviour, attendance and concentration, reduced stress and improved self- esteem

 Motivating pupils to think and to learn, as most children have a high level of natural interest in, enthusiasm for, and enjoyment of animals

 Encouraging respect and thereby improving pupils’ relationships with each other, parents and teachers

 Teaching children to nurture and respect life

 Helping children build confidence in reading http://www.theguardian.com/education/2011/feb/28/dogs-listen-to-children-reading

 

How has school planned for this?

 A full risk assessment and policy has been written.

 Consent will be sought for each child to have contact with Charley.

 All contact with children will be carefully planned and children will not be left unsupervised with Charley. Until September Charley will remain in Sarah and Helen’s office.

 When not working, Charley will be based in one of the school offices.

 

What about allergies?

 Charley is a Labradoodle (a mix of a Labrador and a Poodle) therefore should be more hypo-allergenic

 All areas of the school are vacuumed, and surfaces are wiped down, daily.

 Movement around the school will be controlled and Charley will be on a lead.

 Any child working with Charley will wash their hands and use a lint roller before returning to class.

 A full management plan is being introduced regarding allergies.

 

29th June 2018

 

A week with Charley!

Charley says WOOF WOOF !

29th June 2018

Quiet night at home after my first week at work - what an exciting week!

3rd July 2018

10th July 2018