School dog appointed to help Northumberland pupils grow

A cocker spaniel puppy has joined pupils in the classroom at Whittingham C of E Primary School.
Jess, a cocker spaniel puppy, has joined Whittingham C of E Primary School.Jess, a cocker spaniel puppy, has joined Whittingham C of E Primary School.
Jess, a cocker spaniel puppy, has joined Whittingham C of E Primary School.

Jess has joined the school as part of a pet therapy project following discussions with the governing body, parents and the Dog’s Trust charity.

Headteacher, Belinda Athey, said: “We hope students will gain a great deal of enjoyment from having a school dog and that she becomes an established part of life at our wonderful school.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Studies have shown that the presence of companion animals can improve the well-being of children and lower the rate of anxiety simply by making the environment happier, more enjoyable and less forbidding.

Jess, the cocker spaniel, with Whittingham pupils in a reading session.Jess, the cocker spaniel, with Whittingham pupils in a reading session.
Jess, the cocker spaniel, with Whittingham pupils in a reading session.

They also help to encourage expression, participation and confidence in all children, help foster a sense of responsibility, motivate pupils to think and to learn, help children to nurture and respect life, build confidence in reading and improve attendance.

Related topics: