School Dog
Our new School Dog - Bailey
We are so excited to introduce this week, Bailey, our new family member ! He is a 2 year old Cockerpoo which is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle.
Since becoming Head, I have undertaken a significant amount of research and are aware of 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- encouraging expression and participation in more withdrawn children;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 children build confidence in reading.
Bailey will be integrated into our family slowly and will attend school one day a week initially! He will stay in the Heads office during the day and will visit the children in class to check on their learning.
Our Dogs Trust assembly and workshops this week really supported children in approaching, handling and gaining confidence in managing any fears around dogs. 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 Bailey.
Whilst moving around the school, Bailey will be kept on a short lead and will always be with an adult. The breed has been carefully selected because of its ideal temperament and because it is used widely in the field of therapy and support (e.g. autism assistance dogs). Cockerpoos are by nature gentle and friendly creatures. He has a curly, very low shedding coat which makes him much less likely to affect those with allergies. He is also fully insured and has had all his vaccinations and health checks.
We are positive that our new edition will have a positive impact across the whole school and look forward to sharing with you some of his stories as the weeks go on.
#BaileyBoy
#Oakfieldfamily2022!