We are proud to introduce Rufus, our wellbeing dog. 

Rufus will be supporting children’s emotional wellbeing in a calm, structured and closely supervised way. Many primary schools now successfully use school dogs to help children with confidence, emotional regulation, reading and anxiety, and we are introducing this in line with well-established good practice.

A full risk assessment has been completed, and clear procedures are in place to ensure this is safe, inclusive and well managed.

Rufus belongs to our Head of School Miss Croot and here she explains why he is joining our school team:

Why introduce a school wellbeing dog?

Experience from other schools shows that calm, well-managed interaction with a dog can:

* help children feel calm and settled
* support confidence and emotional wellbeing
* encourage engagement and focus (including reading and conversation)
* provide reassurance during times of stress or change

Rufus is calm and friendly, is fully vaccinated, insured and health-checked, and his time in school will always be carefully structured.

How Rufus will be in school?

* Rufus will always be supervised by me.
* When moving around the site, Rufus will be on a lead at all times and kept close to me.
* Rufus will not roam freely around the school.
* Any work with children will take place only in enclosed environments, such as my office or another supervised room.
* Rufus will never be left alone with children.
* Interaction with Rufus will always be planned, calm and supervised - there will be no informal “drop-in” contact.
 * Rufus will not be allowed in food preparation areas, dining spaces, pupil toilets or other unsuitable areas.

Children’s comfort and choice

We understand that children (and adults!) feel differently about dogs.

* No child will ever be required to interact with Rufus.
* If your child is allergic, phobic/anxious around dogs, or simply prefers not to take part, please email the school office so we can make appropriate arrangements.
* Children will be taught clear expectations for calm, safe behaviour around Rufus, and we will ensure that anyone who needs to avoid contact can do so easily and discreetly.

Hygiene and welfare

* Handwashing or hand sanitising will take place after any contact.
* Rufus will be kept clean, well-groomed and appropriately rested.
* Rufus’ welfare is carefully monitored, and sessions will stop immediately if he shows any signs of stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my child have to take part?

No. Interaction with Rufus is always optional.

What if my child is allergic or afraid of dogs?

Please email the school office and we will put suitable arrangements in place.

Will Rufus be in classrooms?

Rufus will not be in classrooms as part of everyday teaching. Any work with children takes place in enclosed, supervised spaces.

How will Rufus move around the school safely?

Rufus will always be with me and on a lead when moving around the site. Movement is planned to minimise disruption and avoid busy times where possible.

Is Rufus insured and risk assessed?

Yes. Rufus is fully insured and a comprehensive risk assessment has been completed and will be reviewed regularly.

What happens if there is an incident or concern?

Any concerns would be dealt with immediately, recorded in line with school procedures, reviewed, and parents contacted where appropriate.

We hope that Rufus will be a positive and calming presence for many children, and we are committed to introducing him in a way that is safe, thoughtful and inclusive.

And finally, Rufus would like me to reassure you that while he may occasionally help children practise reading, he has no plans to mark books, patrol the corridors, or take over assemblies.