Barney - Our Emotional Support Dog

Barney is our lovely wellbeing dog who is working in our school as part of an ongoing provision for well being and mental health. Barney lives with Sue Potter our wellbeing mentor and comes into school every day to be alongside the children.

How has the school planned for Barney?

• A full risk assessment and policy has been written.
• Consent has been sought from all children through Arbor.
• All contact with Barney will be carefully planned and children will not be left
  unsupervised with him.
• When not working, Barney will be based in the Nurture 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 Barney will wash their hands afterwards.
• Barney is a Poochon. This breed is hypoallergenic.

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.

Barney’s Timetable