Archie - Our Dog Mentor
Archie is our lovely wellbeing dog who is working in our school as part of an ongoing provision for well being and mental health. Archie lives with Mrs Cuthill and comes into school three mornings each week to be alongside the children.
What are the benefits of a school dog?
In summary academic research has shown that dogs working and helping in the school environment can achieve the following:
- Improve academic achievement
- Increase literacy skills
- Calming behaviours
- Increase social skills and self esteem
- Increase confidence
- Teach responsibility and respect to all life
- Help prevent truancy
- Motivate children who are often less attentive.
How has the school planned for Archie?
- A full risk assessment and policy has been written.
- Consent has been sought from for all children.
- All contact with Archie will be carefully planned and children will not be left unsupervised with him.
- When not working, Archie will be based in the Sunshine Room.
What about allergies?
- All areas in school are vacuumed and surfaces are wiped down daily.
- Movement around the school will be controlled.
- Any child working with Archie will wash their hands afterwards.
- Archie is Cockerpoochon. This breed is hypoallergenic.
Archie's Timetable
