4^th May 2023

Dear parents,

Introducing a school dog

We will be introducing a ‘school dog’ to Holy Family School and are very keen to hear your thoughts to help us finalise how this will be managed in school.  We have a clear policy awaiting approval from the Academy Committee and we have ensured that all relevant insurances are in place prior to proceeding with this new initiative. The policy can be found on the school website, here: https://primarysite-prod-sorted.s3.amazonaws.com/the-holy-family-catholic-primary/UploadedDocument/9a8f13d4-5545-4156-85d7-78c548c331a1/school-dog-policy-hf-awaiting-approval.pdf

Charlie is Mrs Kershaw’s family pet dog.  He is a 2 year old Cockapoo. He has been living with the Kershaw family since he was 8 weeks old. Charlie is a very calm and well-behaved dog who loves children. Cockapoo dogs are known for responding well to training and for being good with children.  They shed very little hair and are very sociable and friendly. Charlie has the right temperament and character to become a real asset to Holy Family School and to enhance the overall experience of our children.

Through having contact with a dog, children can benefit educationally and emotionally, increase their understanding of responsibility and develop empathy and nurturing skills. In addition to these benefits, children take great enjoyment from interaction with a dog.  Having a school dog has had a positive impact on attendance in other schools.

Parents are invited to give their feedback via this link – this should only take a few moments.  https://forms.office.com/e/PK27FvwHSJ

Please complete your feedback no later than 10^th May.

Please don’t hesitate to catch us at the school gate should you wish to ask anything further.

Kind regards

Mrs Underhill                                        Mrs Kershaw

Academy Principal                             Academy Vice-Principal / SENCO