Aycliffe School recently subscribed to the Read2Dogs Scheme, which helps children improve their literacy and communication skills, by reading to a Pets As Therapy registered dog.

Rolo has visited Aycliffe School every Friday afternoon over the last few weeks and this is planned as a long-term therapy feature of the school curriculum. Feedback from staff and learners has been amazing with many reporting on the impact on the children’s emotional wellbeing.

“We are delighted to welcome Simon and his dog Rolo to Aycliffe School.” Principal Kirsty Carr said.

It has been fantastic to observe the impact Rolo has already had on our school community!

Pets As Therapy Dogs provide comfort, encourage positive social behaviours, enhance self-esteem, motivate speech and inspire children to have fun.

The children are also told how much the dog enjoys hearing stories. Teachers are in charge and in attendance constantly and Rolo is held on a lead, but the child/children sit close by so they can interact with the dog.

The effects of Pets As Therapy dogs in schools has shown a range of benefits including:

• Reducing stress physiologically (Cortisol levels) and increase attachment responses that trigger Oxytocin – a hormone that increases trust in humans.
• Increase in school attendance.
• Gains in confidence.
• Decreases in learner anxiety behaviours resulting in improved learning outcomes, such as increases in reading and writing levels.
• Positive changes towards learning and improved motivation.
• Enhanced relationships with peers and teachers.
• Teaching empathy and appropriate interpersonal skills.
• Development of social skills.

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