Our School Dog
Meet Woody!
We have a very special member of staff who is here for the benefit of all our pupils, but is based in Robins Class.
Woody is a chocolate Labrador who began his training with us in September 2016 when he was just over 11 weeks old.
In his spare time, Woody is a family pet who lives with Mrs Williams and her family. At home he gets to be a much loved dog who plays in the garden and gets walked in the fields and park. He also has some dog friends with whom he loves to play.
Woody's School Week
During the week Woody is a therapy dog in school. Woody was especially chosen for his role as a support dog by Jenny Duckworth, The Dog Mentor, who began working with him and his brothers and sisters from a very early age. Woody's role in school is to bring a sense of calm and unconditional companionship for the children. He is here to share the joys of working and learning together by simply lying under the table whilst we work, sniffing the pages of your books to say well done, or playing with us out in the woodland area.
Woody also comes to assemblies, visits the library and is ready to say hello to anyone who would like to spend time with him. Woody is a wonderful way to regain a sense of calm.
Please know that we understand not all people appreciate a dog's presence. This is why Woody is based in one classroom and is invited to other areas of the school. Woody is always supervised by the staff and never left on his own with any pupil, no matter how familiar they are with each other.
We believe Woody enhances the well-being of our children to work through anger management and social problems. He can also help stimulate problem solving, self-esteem, acceptance from others, motivation and laughter!
If you would like to come and find out more about Woody and his role in school, you are very welcome to come and visit him in class. Please do make an appointment through the school office.
Our school policy can be found here