Cowley have welcomed a second therapy dog after seeing the hugely positive impact that cockapoo Rolo, who joined the college in 2020, has had on students and staff.

Daisy, a honey-coloured Goldendoodle, is currently undergoing puppy and therapy dog training in preparation for joining the college in September.

Daisy will join Rolo in spending time with students in lessons and as part of wellbeing enrichment, working in both the college’s 11-16 and Sixth Form sites.   

Parents and carers will get the chance to meet Daisy at key events, such as parents’ evenings.

Research has shown numerous benefits to young people of having a canine companion in school, including improved self-esteem, encouraging responsibility and teaching compassion and respect.

Mr Cormack, Headteacher, said: “We are delighted to welcome Daisy to the Cowley family as a valued member of the team.

“We have seen first hand with Rolo the incredibly positive impact that a therapy dog can have on attendance, learning and wellbeing and we are keen to expand on this success. 

“Rolo has helped improve academic confidence in students, particularly in reading and literacy, and he has played an important role in helping students during stressful and emotional times.

“In her first year at Cowley, Daisy will work closely with the lower school team in helping our new Year 7s with their transition as they navigate high school life. 

“Though she isn’t overly fussed on cats, Daisy loves being read to, so a voluntary summer challenge for our new intake is to find a book or poem that they think Daisy would love!”