Following consistent requests from pupils via our school council, we are very excited to announce the arrival of our own school dog here at Broke Hall. Stanley, a border terrier, is now 20 months old, will be gradually introduced to the school environment and we hope will become fully accustomed to the routines of the day and supportive of children within the school over a relatively short period of time.

We have undertaken a significant amount of research, have visited other schools who have a school dog established, and are aware of many benefits to having a school dog including:

• A calming effect on pupils, particularly those with behavioural or learning difficulties;

• Encouraging expression and participation in more withdrawn children;

• Fostering a sense of responsibility;

• Increasing enthusiasm for and enjoyment of animals which will motivate the children to think and learn;

• 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;

• Improving attendance