Bruce - Our School Dog

Bruce - the Manor Field Infant school dog

At Manor Field Infant school we are always looking for new ways to support our children and provide different opportunities to help them show our STAR values. Therefore we are pleased to announce the arrival of 'Bruce' our school dog. Bruce is a red miniature labradoodle and belongs to Mr Britt and his family. Over time as he completes his initial Kennel Club Good citizen awards and moves onto more specialised school dog training, we hope that Bruce will be able to provide a different, additional level of support for the children in our school. 

Letter of introduction for Bruce at bottom of page

Risk assessment for Bruce at bottom of page

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my child is scared of dogs?

We would be very careful to avoid any negative impacts on children, and we will work closely with parents and children to provide a safe and worry free environment. Please do let us know if you feel your child would be concerned with a school dog. Equally, one of the benefits of having a dog in school is being able to support children who may be fearful, and helping them to see that dogs can be friendly – and knowing how to respond around dogs.

What if my child is allergic to dogs?

Bruce is an F2b Labradoodle which makes him far less likely to cause an allergic reaction to someone with an allergy to dogs. However, we will always want to work with parents to ensure that children are safe, whatever their needs. Please do let us know if your child might have allergy to dogs. 

Is the dog insured?

Yes, Bruce is insured and a full risk assessment completed and regularly updated. 

Will Bruce be health checked and vaccinated?

Yes, as part of the risk assessment for Bruce, he must have his injections as required and annual checks at the vets. 

What about going to the toilet?

Bruce will be not be allowed to go on the school field or playground. He will have a dedicated space at the front of the school and any mess will always be cleaned up fully. Should there be accidents within school, then this will always be thoroughly cleaned. 

How will you ensure the dog's welfare is maintained?

This is one of the most important aspects. We will always ensure that Bruce is happy and safe – as we do with our pupils! Whilst moving around on site, and with any children, he will be on a lead (chest harness) in order to maintain safe control for all involved. 

What will Bruce do?

Our aim will be that all the children have the opportunity to have quality time with Bruce and learn how to care for him. He will also be available to calm unsettled children and walk around the school on a lead with the a member of staff at appropriate times of the day so that he isn’t a distraction to the children. Bruce will need to take walks, and we would involve in the children in this when appropriate. Bruce can also help in the curriculum e.g. learning about keeping others safe, responsibility, writing instructions about caring for others etc. Over time, Bruce will be trained to listen to children read...and help them with those tricky split vowel digraphs! 

What about the costs? 

As the Britt family pet, all current costs associated with Bruce will be covered by Mr Britt and his family. 

I thought dogs weren't allowed on site?

That's right they aren't. However, special permission is given for Bruce as there is a full risk assessment in place for him. 

There are a number of other schools who have successfully introduced dogs to their settings. Two of these can be found below. 

St Peter's Junior School 

Marnel Infant School