We are a school who introduce school pets to our children as a way of teaching them responsibility and providing a source of pleasure and learning.
 
During the Summer holidays 2024 our Cockapoo puppy, named Bennie, joined the Kirkby Avenue family.
Cockapoos are renowned for their friendly, outgoing temperament and hypoallergenic fur. They are immensely intelligent and trainable making them suitable for roles such as therapy dogs. Cockapoos have a lively and energetic spirit, they are affectionate and thrive on interaction with children and other pets.
Bennie is lucky to have two owners, Ms Hedge and Miss Bainbridge and shares his time with each of their families when not in school.
 
Bennie's role in school is developing and he has become immersed in the life of school, not only providing therapeutic intervention but also supporting the curriculum. For example, he has spent time in Reception P.E lessons and taken part in road safety sessions with older pupils.
Research studies have shown that school dogs have been proven to help develop pupils reading skills, improve behaviour, attendance and academic confidence, as well as increasing pupil understanding of responsibility and develop empathy and nurturing skills.
 
We will keep this page updated with Bennie's work in school and his journey towards becoming a Kirkby Avenue Role Model!