We recently welcomed Deano to our school community. Deano is a Labrador retriever who was trained as a community dog by the Irish Guide Dogs.

After special training with Mr Flynn, Deano has found a beautiful home and community.  Already Deano has had a wonderful impact on pupils and staff alike.There are many benefits to having a community dog in a school setting. For example, reducing anxiety in pupils, developing social skills, helping pupils nurture empathy skills, and increasing confidence in reluctant readers, to name just a few.

Deano starts his school day like everyone – he arrives in the morning and leaves with Mr. Flynn at the end of the school day. Deano spends time with smaller groups, popping into classes, escorting pupils back to their classes and pops into the office to say hello!

Deano is a very friendly yet calm dog. He does not greet students until he’s told to go say hello.”