Our Reading Dog
Meet our school dog, Hanson
Hanson is a Golden Doodle (Golden Retriever and Poodle cross). This breed was chosen as Golden Doodles are hypoallergenic and well-tempered. The breed is also characterised by its high levels of intelligence, response to training and confidence in social situations.
Hanson has many key adults at Hans Price but spends the majority of his working day with Ms Allchurch in the library and is cared for by Miss Angell. He also has scheduled down time away from students, which he spends with the office team, in the main office, behind reception.
Hanson is a trained “Reading Dog”. This means he is trained to sit alongside students in the library and focus on an individual as they read. Reading to dogs has been proven to help children develop literacy skills and build confidence, through both the calming effect the dog’s presence has and the fact that a dog will listen to children read without being judgemental or critical. This comforting environment helps to nurture children’s enthusiasm for reading and provides them with the confidence to read aloud. Hanson also sits with students who are reading to themselves, as a form of wellbeing and reward.
Many schools in England now have “School Dogs” or “Therapy Dogs” as part of their Academies. It is important to know that Hanson is not used to support dysregulated or upset children at Hans Price, instead having a specific role to support our school wide mission to improve literacy and a lifelong love of reading.
Clear guidelines are given to our students about interacting with Hanson and contact with him is entirely optional. For many, this is the first time they learn how to safely and effectively interact with a dog. If students have any concerns which they haven’t yet shared, they can let an adult know or parents/carers can let the school office know by emailing: info@hpa.clf.uk.
A full risk assessment has been completed and should you wish to obtain a copy of the risk assessment or our School Dog Policy, please contact the school office.
If you are interested in Hanson, please find some top facts and tips below:
Ways you can help Hanson to be successful in school:
- Ensure food is only eaten is designated areas. Hanson will find any food or packaging dropped on the floor and eating this can make him very sick.
- Always ask the adult Hanson is with if you would like to greet him.
- Give him space. If you don’t need to interact with Hanson, ignoring him helps him stay focussed on his job.
- Let him rest. When Hanson has down time and is resting, please allow him to do this without interruption.
- Allow him to come to you. Approaching quickly, in groups or when he is not ready could scare Hanson.
