Dog Mentor
Our Nova Sessions
The Nova Mentoring Programme is a cherished part of our school's well-being provision, harnessing the proven therapeutic benefits of Animal-Assisted Intervention (AAI). Our school dog, Nova, works alongside our specialist staff to provide targeted, weekly support for pupils. Our dog mentoring programme is ran in partnership with "The Dog Mentor" programme.
How the Programme Works
Sessions are held once a week and are meticulously structured by our Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA). The focus is always on the specific, identified goals of the participating child.
Safety and Access
All sessions are closely supervised by Ms. Kelly-Green and adhere to the highest standards of animal welfare and child safety. Parental permission is always sought before a child begins the programme. The program is referral-based, targeting pupils identified by the SENCo, ELSA, or class teachers as needing specific emotional or reading support.
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Key Areas of Impact:
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📈 Reading Fluency and Confidence: Reading to Nova provides a stress-free environment, which is highly effective in removing the anxiety often associated with practicing reading aloud.
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❤️ Emotional Literacy: Interaction with Nova helps children learn about empathy, responsibility, and emotional regulation in a practical, hands-on way.
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🗣️ Communication Skills: Pupils practice giving clear instructions and engaging in gentle conversation with Nova and Ms. Kelly-Green, boosting overall verbal confidence.
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😌 Anxiety Reduction: The simple act of petting and being near an animal mentor is scientifically proven to lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels, making pupils feel safer and calmer.
"The non-judgmental presence of an animal mentor allows children to take risks and truly express themselves. It is a powerful, personalised intervention that enhances their emotional resilience." - Mr Kelly-Green, School ELSA
