Meet Myles, our school therapy dog. Myles is owned by our School Business Manager, Mrs Pollitt.

Myles is a trained dog who works alongside children who may need emotional or academic support. Myles works with us on an ad hoc basis but after Christmas will have a timetable of when he comes into school.

Myles has a risk assessment in place and will be based in the school office but will visit the Cloud Room and spend time with the children throughout the day, supervised by an adult at all times.

Myles' fur will be cut short so that malting will be minimal. Any area that he is in is cleaned and wiped with antibacterial wipes.

The children really do enjoy having Myles as part of the team. Safe contact with adults is proven to help us to alleviate stress and anxiety, and help with emotional regulation, however, no child (or adult) will be made to spend time with Myles.

There are many benefits to having a school dog, including:

* calming effect on pupils, particularly those with behavioural or learning difficulties.

* improved behaviour and concentration, reduced stress and improved self-esteem.

* encouraging expression and participation in more withdrawn children.

* fostering a sense of responsibility.

* motivating pupils to think and to learn, as children have a high level of natural interest in, enthusiasm for and enjoyment of animals.

* encouraging respect and thereby improving pupils' relationships with each other, parents and teachers.

* teaching children to nurture and respect life.

* helping work undertaken with the most vulnerable children, and educational improvements with low achievers.

* helping children build confidence in reading. (http://www.theguardian.com/education/2011/feb/28/dogs-listen-to-children-reading)

Myles is a lurcher. 

He had a DNA test and he is...