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• encouraging expression and participation in more withdrawn children 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.

Stanley is a one-year-old Cavapoo. Cavapoos are a dog breed that is mostly hypoallergenic and does not moult. Cavapoos have the gentle nature‌, and intelligence of the Poodle with the playful, energetic, loving disposition of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They are a people-oriented breed that develops strong bonds with their families. They want to be included in everything you do!

Stanley has been popping into school since November, getting used to our building, school grounds, staff and pupils. Just like all of our new children, it has taken him a little while to get used to life at Idle CE. 

We spent the first couple of weeks showing Stanley around the school site and allowing him time to get used to the different sounds, smells and sights around the building. It's amazing how much there is to see, and smell at Idle CE!  

Stanley has been working with Mrs Russell, Miss Mitchell and Mr Bujra to learn how to support pupils who are feeling upset or who may be struggling to access their learning in class due to worries, anxities or regulating their emotions. 

Stanley helps out at Idle CE by looking after anyone who is feeling aanxious or a bit sad - a little stroke and a look into those big brown eyes is enough to make anyone feel happy again. When Stanley is old enough, we would love for him to 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. Once fully trained, Stanley will spend his days visiting the classrooms and listening to readers from across the school.