Why We Use Therapy Dogs
We’re very lucky at our school — we don’t just have one therapy dog, we have four! Buddy, Holly, Ralph, and our newest addition, Arlo, are all much-loved members of our school family. Each of them has their own special personality, but they all share one important job: helping to make our school a happier, calmer, and more welcoming place for everyone.
Each morning, you’ll find them outside greeting children as they arrive. For some pupils, mornings can be tricky, and a friendly wagging tail or a gentle cuddle can make all the difference in helping them start the day feeling calm and confident.
Throughout the day, our dogs love to wander around school, popping into classrooms to say hello. Their visits help children settle and engage with their work — there’s something about having a furry friend nearby that makes learning more enjoyable! Many of our pupils also love reading to the dogs. It’s a fun, relaxed way to build reading confidence and fluency, without the pressure of reading in front of others.
Our therapy dogs don’t just support children; they bring comfort and calm to everyone — staff, parents, and visitors alike. Their friendly presence helps create a warm, welcoming atmosphere across the school. Whether it’s easing nerves, encouraging focus, or simply brightening someone’s day, our dogs play a big role in supporting wellbeing for our whole school community.
