Introducing Our School Dog: Tilly!

We are excited to share that, following our staff and parent consultation, we have introduced our very own school dog, Tilly!

Tilly has joined our school as part of The Dog Mentor Programme, which focuses on the positive impact of the human-animal bond. This initiative provides our children with enriching experiences that enhance their educational, developmental, emotional, and social growth.

The Dog Mentor Programme demonstrates significant benefits for children, including improvements in self-esteem, behaviour, peer relationships and engagement skills. These positive changes often lead to enhanced academic achievement.

Tilly is trained, well-behaved and hypoallergenic to ensure the comfort and safety of all our children.

Here are some important details regarding her presence in school:

• Voluntary Interaction: No child is expected to interact with Tilly if they do not wish to. Interaction is entirely voluntary, and children have the opportunity to engage with her if they choose. We seek parental permission for any child coming into contact with her.

• Supervision and Training: Several staff members are trained to handle Tilly, ensuring close supervision at all times. She does not roam freely around the school; instead, there is a timetable for carefully planned and controlled interactions.

• Minimising Distractions: Tilly’s presence is managed to ensure she does not distract from the learning environment.

• Health and Safety: Tilly has appropriate insurance, and a thorough risk assessment has been conducted to maintain a clean and sanitary school environment. She also goes on comfort breaks away from school to uphold hygiene standards.

   

Before introducing our School Dog, we conducted a Parent/ Carer and Staff survey: the response was overwhelmingly in favour of introducing a school dog. However, we recognise that some families may feel apprehensive about this initiative, so we put together some FAQs, which we hope will answer any questions that may arise. We believe that Tilly brings a positive influence to our school community.

Full training has been provided for both Tilly and the staff who work with her, ensuring that the welfare of everyone involved remains our top priority. For more information about The Dog Mentor Programme and to see examples of other schools that successfully introduce dogs, please visit their website here.

We hope you share our excitement about this new addition to our school. Please take a look at the FAQs here. If you have any further questions or concerns, do get in touch.

Our Parent Consent Form can be viewed here.

To view our School Dog Risk Assessment, please click here.