Many students at the school will remember the times when Sadie, the school dog, used to come to school with Mrs McDougall. The decision to have a school dog was based on significant research and was supported by the school’s Governing Body.
The benefits of having Sadie onsite were multiple and the positive impact on young people was clear. Following changes in her management role, bringing Sadie is no longer a practical option for Mrs McDougall.
We are now in the fortunate position of being able to reinstate a school dog. Ozzy is a 3-year old male Cavapoo (considered to be a hypoallergenic breed). Ozzy has already been assessed by a certified dog trainer for his temperament and suitability to work with young people and has been working in another educational setting for over two and a half years.
The many benefits of having a school dog include:
- A calming effect on students, especially those who need emotional or behavioural regulation.
- A greater sense of enjoyment of the school environment leading to improved attendance.
- Supporting the engagement of reluctant readers, thus building confidence.
- Helping foster positive mental health. Indeed, a recent study has identified that a few minutes stroking a dog can lead to the release of ”feel-good” hormones in humans.
Ozzy will be based with his owner, Ms. Prosser in D Block during break and lunch time. During lesson time he will predominantly be based in Curriculum Support.
At The Bewdley School, we have previously worked with a fully accredited dog trainer, and we will continue to have them work with us, as required. All students will have assemblies on how to interact safely and appropriately with Ozzy on the school site.
Any parent(s)/carer(s) who do not wish their son/daughter to interact with the school dog for any reason should email Mrs Oliver (lol@bewdley.worcs.sch.uk). Permission for your son/daughter to have some contact will be presumed if no written communication to Mrs Oliver is received by Monday 24 February.
Further information and FAQ’s can be found here – School Dog February 2025