We are very lucky to have introduced a School Therapy Dog to the team to support and enhance our learning and well-being provision. Her name is Red, and she is a 4-year-old Labrador who lives with Mrs Kenny and her family. Red and Mrs Kenny have completed their training and have earned full Visiting Therapy Dog accreditation.

Having dogs in schools has been proven to:

• Help develop learners' reading skills and self-confidence
• Improve behaviour and attendance
• Support emotional regulation
• Improve academic confidence
• Develop an understanding of responsibility, empathy and nurturing skills
• Help with social skills
• When dogs are in a classroom, the children become less tense, less self-conscious and become more confident because dogs are non-judgemental. If children are partnered with dogs, the dog provides comfort, encourages positive social behaviour, enhances self-esteem, motivates speech and inspires the child to have fun and enjoy the experience of learning.