A NINE-MONTH old puppy has proved a hit with pupils and staff after he enrolled at a Barry Secondary school as a pet therapy dog.

Fox red labrador, Pilot took up his role at Whitmore High School this year after his owner, head of wellbeing Sue Neilson and head teacher, Innes Robinson read about the benefits for pupils of having pets in schools.

Ms Neilson came up with the idea after attending trauma training where the trainer had a pet therapy dog with her and she saw how people interacted with him and how everyone ended up with a smile on their face.

She started to research and spoke to Mr Robinson who was very supportive and could see how positive a pet in school could be.

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Mr Robinson said: “Pilot spends time in Ms Neilson’s wellbeing room as well as in the literacy lounge and nurture room.

“Pilot loves to listen to children read to him.

“He also loves to sit and be petted by young people who are upset or anxious.

“Pilot also enjoys the visits from staff who make a fuss of him.

“The pupils love to see Pilot around the school and always stop to talk and smooth him.”

“The students interact in different ways, some pupils might come to spend time with Pilot first thing in the morning,” Mr Robinson said.

“They aren’t in the best frame of mind to go to lesson and they choose to see Pilot to calm them and put them in a better mood.

“Some students like to read to Pilot as they feel too self-conscious to read aloud in class.

“Some because they are upset or anxious.

“Pilot is non-judgemental and is always welcoming to everyone who comes to see him.”

“The staff have been amazing! Mr Robinson added: “They have been really supportive and also talk to the pupils about Pilot and sometimes have him in the classroom as a reward for the pupils.

“Many of the staff come along to see Pilot, he is very spoilt and gets lots and lots of attention.

“Pilot is very quiet and very well behaved.

“He enjoys all the attention and listening to the pupils reading.

“He enjoys long walks and chasing his ball.

“Pilot loves to chew and he enjoys his root chews and swimming in the sea.

“Pilot really enjoys his time with the pupils and staff.

“He knows his way around the school and it’s like his second home.

“I think Pilot has become the favourite member of staff by everyone, pupils, and staff alike.”