Meet Marley, our school dog. He's a Westipoo, which is a mix between a West Highland White Terrier and a poodle. Westipoos are intelligent, sociable and affectionate by nature, and Marley is no different. He is also hypoallergenic, meaning he does not shed his coat and therefore, does not cause irritation to those with allergies.

 

Children can benefit educationally and emotionally, increase their understanding of responsibility and develop empathy and nurturing skills through contact with a dog. In addition to these benefits, children (and staff!) take great enjoyment from interaction with a dog.

 

Marley greets the children on the door in the morning (a huge reason to arrive on time to school!); he helps children to relax when they feel anxious or frustrated; and he loves listening to children read.

 

Marley’s Mates

Our school has three simple rules - to be ‘Ready, Respectful and Safe’. Each fortnight, the class that has demonstrated these rules extremely well are awarded ‘Marley’s Mates’. They will become responsible for walking Marley on the school grounds and where appropriate, Marley will join them in their lessons to help with their learning.

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Marley even has his own Twitter page. Click on the link below to follow him.