Blog 9- Pawsome News!

In recent years, more schools have begun welcoming an unexpected but heartwarming addition to their communities: school dogs.

Of course, introducing a school dog requires careful planning. Considerations such as allergies, cultural attitudes, and the dog’s temperament must be taken into account. Clear guidelines are essential to ensure the safety and wellbeing of both pupils and the dog. When implemented thoughtfully, however, a school dog can become a cherished member of the school community.

We are excited that we will be welcoming Roxie, a lovely Cavapoo, into our school to trial her role as our school dog. Roxie is Mr Head’s dog, and we are delighted to have her become part of our school environment. Dogs like Roxie are becoming increasingly popular in educational settings—and for good reason. From improving pupil wellbeing to enhancing learning environments, the benefits of having a school dog are both wide-ranging and deeply impactful.

As part of our preparation, we have followed guidance from the Dogs Trust on the use of school dogs. Their support has been invaluable in helping us to carefully plan this initiative, including the development of thorough risk assessments and thoughtful consideration of how best to introduce Roxie to the school community. This ensures that the wellbeing of both our pupils and Roxie remains a top priority.

Roxie will spend her days in the school office and will not be wandering corridors or visiting classrooms. This approach has been carefully chosen to ensure that there is no risk to any children who may have allergies or sensitivities. Cavapoos and Cockapoos are often chosen as school dogs because of their low allergy risk.  When pupils do have the opportunity to meet and greet Roxie, this will take place in a controlled and supervised way, either in the school office or outside on the school grounds.

To further support safety, pupils will receive guidance on how to approach and interact with dogs in a calm and respectful manner. We will be using resources provided by the Dogs Trust, including their “Safe Around Dogs” materials, to help children understand how to behave safely around Roxie and other dogs.

Key messages that children will learn include:

• Being calm around dogs, avoiding loud noises or chasing games that may make a dog feel worried
• Giving dogs space and understanding that they may not like hugs or being crowded
• Playing fairly and never teasing a dog with toys, games, or food
• Leaving dogs alone when they are resting or eating
• Keeping hands away from a dog’s face, ears, and mouth to avoid causing discomfort
• Remembering that dogs have feelings and should always be treated with kindness and respect

These important lessons will help pupils build confidence while also promoting safe, positive interactions, ensuring that Roxie’s presence is a happy and safe experience for everyone.

One of the most significant advantages of a school dog is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety among pupils. School can be a challenging environment, especially for children dealing with academic pressure, social difficulties, or personal issues. Interacting with a calm, friendly dog has been shown to lower cortisol levels and promote a sense of calm. Even a few minutes spent with Roxie can help pupils regulate their emotions, making them more prepared to engage in learning.

School dogs also play a valuable role in supporting children with special educational needs. For autistic pupils, pupils with ADHD, or with social, emotional and mental health needs, a dog can provide a non-judgmental companion that helps them feel safe and understood. Dogs can act as a bridge between pupils and teachers, encouraging communication and fostering trust. In some cases, children who struggle to connect with peers or adults find it easier to open up in the presence of a dog.

Another key benefit is the positive impact on literacy and learning. Many schools use dogs as part of reading programs, where pupils read aloud in a calm and supportive environment. This creates a low-pressure space, helping children feel more confident and motivated to practice their reading skills. Over time, this can lead to improved fluency, comprehension, and a genuine love of reading.

In addition to supporting individual pupils, school dogs can enhance the overall school climate. Their presence often brings a sense of warmth and joy to the environment, helping to build a more inclusive and supportive community. Dogs can encourage kindness, empathy, and responsibility among pupils, as they learn how to interact respectfully and care for another living being. This can contribute to improved behaviour and stronger relationships within the school.

School dogs can also benefit staff members. Teaching can be a demanding profession, and having a dog in the workplace can help reduce stress and boost morale. A quick visit with Roxie during a break can provide a moment of relaxation and emotional reset, enabling staff to return to their roles feeling refreshed and focused.

School dogs offer far more than just companionship. They can support emotional wellbeing, enhance learning, and contribute to a positive school culture. As we begin our journey with Roxie, we look forward to seeing the positive impact she will have—bringing comfort, connection, and a little extra joy to pupils and staff alike.