Our School Dog

All About Our School Dog    

Callie is our school dog. When she is not at school she lives with Mrs Hansen. She is a Cockerpoo and has been attending our school since she was just 9 weeks old. Cockerpoos are hypoallergenic and do not shed hair so she will not be a problem to anyone with a dog allergy, although if you are at all worried about it please let the office know. Callie is still young and getting to know the school. She loves hanging out in Falcons classroom and snoozing!!

Eventually Callie will undertake training to work with children who have special needs, or who are upset in any way and in need of calm, comfort and space before being able to tell an adult what has upset them. 

There are many benefits to having a school dog, including:

• a calming effect on pupils, particularly those with behavioural or learning difficulties
• improved behaviour and concentration, reduced stress and improved self-esteem
• encouraging expression and participation in more withdrawn children 
• fostering a sense of responsibility
• 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 work undertaken with the most vulnerable children, and educational improvements with low achievers
• helping children build confidence in reading.

Please see separate article link below.

Guardian Article - 'Dogs Listen to Children's Reading' 

We are aware that some parents, teachers and children may be unsure around dogs. We make sure that we let people know when Callie is in the building and we will make sure she is sleeping somewhere secure so that she cannot approach people unawares.

With parental permission, over a period of time children who react fearfully to dogs will be supported in approaching, handling and gaining confidence in managing their fear. The dog will not be given access to other visitors without supervision or mutual consent. Please understand that we will do everything we can to reassure children who are fearful and that under no circumstances will they be forced to meet with the dog.

Whilst moving around the school, Callie will be kept on a short lead and will always be with an adult. If you have any concerns at all please contact the school office and ask to speak to Mrs Hansen.

School Dog Risk Assessment.