Our School Dog

Bertie is our amazing school dog here at Laughton.

Bertie is our school dog. He is a Miniature Schnauzer and is 4 years old. Bertie has been at Laughton All Saints’ since September 2022. He visits school most days, spending time with as many of the children as he can! He is owned by Miss Birks who keeps him up to date with his vaccinations and check ups. Because of his breed, Bertie is hypoallergenic, which means he does not moult and should not cause any issues for children or adults with allergies.

Bertie spends his days visiting classrooms and in our Nurture group with Mrs Veitch. He goes out to play with the children on the playground and listens to readers from across the school. Sometimes he even helps children feel happier – if they are a bit sad, then a little stroke and a look into his big brown eyes is enough to make anyone feel happier again!

 

Bertie is many things: 

  1. A friend to greet you at the gate most days and to make you smile coming into school.
  2. A therapy dog who can make you feel a little better if you feel a little bit sad.
  3. Bertie is a dog who loves to learn: he has learned lots of tricks, giving his paw (or two), rolling over on command and sitting smartly when asked.
  4. Bertie is a dog who loves to help others learn: he likes to hear children read and joins in group activities and sometimes spends time in lessons.
  5. Bertie is a dog who helps everyone feel relaxed: he comes to meetings with parents, teachers and Headteachers who visit our school.
  6. Bertie is a dog who loves to play with toys and he is great at sharing.
  7. Bertie is a dog who loves TREATS!!

BERTIE IS A PART OF THE LAUGHTON FAMILY!

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

  • A 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  • Encouraging expression and participation in more withdrawn children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 most 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.

And at the end of a busy day, Bertie goes home for his tea and a sleep on the sofa....