Area Special School, Martin Bacon Academy, is graced by the presence of a much-loved therapy horse and dog to help support mental health and wellbeing amongst students.
Martin Bacon Academy, part of CMAT, have shown their commitment to supporting their students’ mental health and wellbeing through the welcome presence of Winnie the horse and Otto the Labrador at the academy, which is part of the wider Northstowe Learning Community.
Animal assisted therapy has been growing in popularity and numerous research studies have shown the benefits they possess within a school environment. Evidence suggests that the addition of a therapy animal in classrooms can reduce stress and provide a sense of comfort in difficult situations.
The Academy has been using equine facilitated psychotherapy to help students learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with Winnie and other horses. There is then a safe space available during the process of working with the horses, allowing feelings to be shared.
Mary Rayner, Executive Principal at Martin Bacon Academy, said: “Winnie and Otto have been a wonderful addition to the academy and have helped our students to feel a sense of calm, comfort and safety during stressful situations, turning them towards one that provides pleasure instead.
“Therapy animals can be particularly effective with children who have special educational needs, including autism, behavioural problems, children with little or no speech and those who have difficulty focusing and sitting still. Alongside traditional therapy, animals can also help people develop a better sense of self-worth, trust, stabilise their emotions, improve their communication and socialisation skills – something we strive for our students to achieve during their time at the academy.
“We have worked closely with other schools within CMAT who have also introduced therapy animals, to ensure everyone develops the best practice possible and love seeing the positive impact this has had our students’ wellbeing and as a result, on their education.”
Winnie belongs to Michelle Smith, an interventions teacher at the school, whilst Otto is a fully qualified Pet Therapy Dog, both helping to support all students within the academy.
Sarah Louise, Head of School at the academy, said: “We have worked incredibly hard to deliver inspiring and supportive learning environments for our students at Martin Bacon Academy and have plenty more to look forward to this academic year.
“Since our existing animals have been so well received, we’re hoping to have more real animals visit the academy as part of our Christmas festivities, in the hope they will bring further joy and comfort to students before they leave us for the Christmas break.
“We are also looking forward to opening the school up to the wider community through more open events in the future. This will allow existing families who still haven’t set foot in the building, a chance to see their own children’s classroom and see first-hand the facilities and activities that our young people have been enjoying.”
To find out more about Martin Bacon Academy, visit: http://www.martinbacon.academy/