At St Richard’s we recognise the benefits of positive interaction with animals and we are delighted to have the services of Bertie – our school dog. Bertie visits school regularly, loves children, is a trained Pet Therapy Dog and enjoys taking some of our children for walks!

Some of the benefits of having Bertie in school are:

· a calming effect on pupils;

· a development of empathy;

· improved behaviour and concentration, reduced stress and improved self-esteem;

· encouraging expression, participation and confidence for all 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;

· teaching children to nurture and respect life;

· helping with work undertaken with the most vulnerable children;

· further promote ‘well being’ for our pupils