Bluecoat Primary School, part of Meridian Trust, has started training a therapy dog to provide additional support to its children.
Jim, a four-and-a-half-year-old Yellow Golden Retriever, is currently being trained by three handlers at the school. Headteacher, Emma Houlton, Welfare and Safeguarding Lead, Leila Nightingale, and Special Educational Needs Coordinator, Helen Taylor are all helping Jim adjust to his role at the school.
As part of Jim’s journey to becoming a therapy dog, he will be trained through the PAWS Therapy Dog Training programme, a world-leading education provider supporting schools that wish to incorporate a therapy dog.
A typical day for Jim involves an early morning walk, followed by a short trip in the car to work. Once he has arrived at the school, he will excitedly meet and greet all staff, pupils and parents. After the children have settled in for the day, Jim makes his way through the school to ensure they are all in good spirits.
Away from his day-to-day duties, Jim has downtime during the day where he may have a run on the field, catch a few tennis balls, or have a well-earned rest in the Leadership Office. Jim also spends time with children who have chosen him as their privileged reward time. Additionally, Jim accompanies staff members when they are talking to children who are sharing their worries.
Emma Houlton, Headteacher at Bluecoat Primary School, said: “We are thrilled to have Jim as our therapy dog. He is a vital part of our school community, providing emotional support for pupils and creating a positive environment for all.”
“As a school, we understand the importance of ensuring that our children are fully supported regarding their mental health and wellbeing. We are all looking forward to seeing the continued positive impact that Jim will have on our pupils.”
Children at the school have attended multiple assemblies on learning to read and understand the emotions of dogs, as they continue to learn how they can make Jim’s time at the school successful.
This was all made possible thanks to generous donations from Nisa Local on Drift Road and Stamford-based charities, The Rotary Club of Stamford St. Martins and The St Michael’s and Exeter Schools’ Charity, known informally as Stamford Young People’s Charity.