Learn about good boy, Scooby, a beloved four-legged staff member at Armagh Primary school.
In Armagh Primary School, a very special new member of staff resides: Scooby, a labradoodle who was trained by Assistance Dogs NI to support pupils in school.
Scooby brings joy and many benefits to the primary school. One such benefit is improved pupil attendance. Principal, Ciara Farley explains:
Our attendance has vastly improved. Our children really are so keen to get to school because they want to see Scooby at the gate first thing in the morning. And obviously, when our children are in school, they will learn.
Another positive impact has been how Scooby has been able to help encourage non-verbal children in the school to speak. Teacher, Jolene McCaul (who fosters Scooby) shared:
The difference has been so rewarding, it’s worth all the work that’s needed to get Scooby fully trained. We have children that are non-verbal that are actually starting to speak. They’re calling Scooby by name, they’re saying goodbye, they’re saying hello. These are all things that have just come about when Scooby has come about.
It’s not just the staff who shared praise for Scooby though, pupils too shared comments such as, “When children are anxious he’ll always go and care for them and we’re lucky to have him”, “A wonderful friendly dog and he helps out everyone”, and “I think it’s a good idea to have a therapy dog in a school because if you need help with your feelings and everything you can just go to Scooby’s room.” 1
At R.I.S.E., we too appreciate the benefits that animals in education can bring, when introduced carefully and considerately. Back in one of our earliest R.I.S.E. articles, we shared stories from school staff about how animals were making an impact in their settings and got their advice on what schools need to consider before introducing an animal into their environment.
Learn more about how animals can support pupils and staff
