Above: Mrs Farren and Poppy at the Junior School, Mrs Lowery with Heidi at the Senior School 

Young people at Dame Allan’s Schools are benefitting from a helping paw when it comes to their emotional and mental health needs, thanks to the Schools’ resident ‘therapy dogs’.

The two therapy dogs – a Maltichon called Heidi and a Border Terrier called Poppy – were introduced to the Schools last year, and are a firm feature of the pastoral care provision offered by Dame Allan’s. Pupils of all ages can spend time with the dogs, where these special companions can help to reduce stress and anxiety,  offer a reassuring presence during emotional conversations, or simply be there for a mood-boosting cuddle when required – which is especially popular during exam season. 

Sevven-year-old Heidi is the dedicated therapy dog at the Senior School and belongs to Mrs Kelly Lowery, a Learning Support Teacher at Dame Allan’s. Speaking about the popularity of her pet, Kelly said: “Heidi brightens up the day for pupils and staff and she is a much loved addition to the Learning Support department. She is by far the most popular member of the Learning Support team!”

Above: Heidi in The Snug at the Senior School

Heidi works one day a week in ‘The Snug’, a dedicated wellbeing area of the Senior School where pupils can go for learning support, counselling from on-site therapists, or just a space for quiet reflection. The Snug was opened in 2022 by former pupil, BBC Radio 1 presenter and author, Vick Hope, and helped by funds generously willed to Dame Allan’s from former Chair of Governors, June Salmon. 

Speaking about his experience with Heidi, Senior School pupil Sam commented: “I look forward to my Learning Support lesson and when I visit Heidi, she always greets me with a happy tail wag. Heidi always knows when I need a hug to cheer me up and time with her helps me to focus and brightens my day. I love spending time with Heidi.”

At Dame Allan’s Junior School, which includes pupils from Nursery to Year 6, Poppy is also a much-loved support. Following her successful addition to the School in 2022, Poppy is now in school every day. She attends school assemblies, spends her days being stroked and cuddled and going on wellbeing walks with the children. 

Poppy’s owner, Mrs Deborah Farren, is Deputy Head at the Junior School. She said: “Poppy is such a great addition to the pastoral team at the Junior School, the children love to spend time with her or even just give her a quick stroke when they pass her in the corridor. It is amazing to see the positive impact she has on the children and how they benefit from having her in school.”

Junior School pupil Phoebe added: “Poppy is so cute and fluffy and if you are feeling sad just stroke her and you’ll feel happy again, it lets your sadness out.”