Children and staff at Midsomer Norton Primary were delighted to

welcome a new member of staff to the school this autumn – Rosie the School Dog. Rosie, a two-year-old Springer Spaniel, has been a big hit with all!

Research shows children can benefit educationally and emotionally, increase their understanding of responsibility, respect, kindness, love and friendship, and develop empathy and nurturing skills through contact with a dog.

“We have been considering introducing a school dog for a while,” says Headteacher, Alun Randell. “However, concerns nationally about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children’s mental health made Rosie’s introduction particularly important.”

After first being assessed by a registered clinical animal behaviourist, Rosie has been getting used to life in a busy school, greeting children and their families in the morning, gradually meeting children individually and in small groups and enjoying a snooze in Mr Randell’s office. When not in school, Rosie (full name Rosie Randell) looks after Mr Randell and his family at home by ensuring they take enough exercise and spoil her with sufficient treats!