Higher Openshaw Community School dog

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Name: Bentley

Breed: Cockapoo

Age: birthdate 10/05/2021

Interesting fact: Bentley enjoys cuddles

Favourite pastime: Having his tummy tickled!

At Higher Openshaw Community School we are very lucky to have a school dog who is onsite two or three days a week. Bentley has been at HOCS since the start of the 2022/23 academic year he has attended 14 months of training sessions to ensure that he is calm and responsive to commands.

The Benefits of Our School Dog

At Higher Openshaw Community School, we are committed to supporting every child’s wellbeing, confidence, and sense of belonging. As part of our Inclusion Package, we are delighted to have a school dog who plays an important role in enriching our school community.

Having a school dog brings many benefits for children, including:

  • Emotional support – A calm and friendly presence can help reduce anxiety and provide comfort in times of stress.

  • Building confidence – Reading or talking to the dog can encourage children to develop their communication skills in a safe, non-judgemental way.

  • Promoting positive behaviour – Caring for and interacting with the dog helps children learn responsibility, empathy, and respect.

  • Encouraging wellbeing – Spending time with the dog can boost mood, improve self-esteem, and support children in feeling more settled in school.

  • Fostering inclusion – Our school dog provides a shared focus that brings children together, supporting friendships and social interaction.

Our school dog is carefully trained and well cared for, ensuring that every interaction is safe, positive, and rewarding. We are proud to see the joy and confidence our dog brings to the children each day.

 

What does Bentley do in school?

Bentley loves being in school. He lives in Mrs Hockenhull's nurture hub while at school. Children regularly come to see Bentley, and he helps them in a variety of ways:

  • Encourages children into school in the morning when they are upset or nervous by being on gate duty
  • Cheers up children when they are feeling down by letting them take him for a walk
  • Encourages quiet children to speak by letting them help her with her training
  • Comforts children who feel sad by offering the best cuddles

How does a school dog work?

Please feel free to read our ‘Dog in School Policy’ for more information on the guidelines we follow and further explanation of the purpose.