Meet Jaffle: Our Beloved School Dog

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Here to introduce our school's most pawpular staff member!

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Jaffle is our cherished smooth-haired Dachshund who brings joy and learning opportunities to our school community. With his sleek coat and friendly demeanour, Jaffle has become an integral part of our educational environment.

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Jaffle's School Schedule

Jaffle attends school four days per week, brightening the corridors with his presence and wagging tail. On these special days, pupils eagerly anticipate his arrival, knowing that their four-legged friend is ready to support their learning journey.

 

Home Base: The Headteacher's Office

During his school days, Jaffle makes his home in the headteacher's office, where he has his own cosy corner complete with his favourite bed and toys. From this central location, he's perfectly positioned to welcome visitors and participate in the daily life of our school.

 

Reading with Jaffle

One of Jaffle's most important roles is serving as a patient and encouraging reading companion. During break and lunch times, children have the wonderful opportunity to visit Jaffle and read to him. This special programme offers multiple benefits:

For Our Young Readers:

• A non-judgemental, supportive audience who never criticises pronunciation or reading speed

• The calming presence of a gentle animal companion

• Increased confidence in reading aloud

• The joy of Jaffle's enthusiastic tail wags and special stickers as rewards for their efforts

Educational and Emotional Benefits: This innovative programme simultaneously promotes literacy development and nurtures compassion for animals. Children who might feel anxious about reading to adults or peers often find comfort in sharing stories with Jaffle, helping them develop both their reading skills and their emotional connection with animals.

 

Health, Safety, and Wellbeing

Comprehensive Risk Assessment The safety of our pupils and staff is paramount. Before Jaffle joined our school community, a thorough risk assessment was conducted and approved by our governing body. This assessment covers:

• Jaffle's temperament and behaviour evaluation

• Supervision requirements during pupil interactions

• Hygiene protocols and procedures

• Emergency procedures

• Regular health checks and veterinary documentation

Managing Allergies and Sensitivities We take allergies very seriously and have implemented several measures to ensure all pupils can enjoy a safe learning environment:

• Parents/carers are asked to inform the school of any pet allergies during enrolment and at the start of each academic year

• Jaffle's activities are confined to designated areas, allowing allergy sufferers to avoid contact

• Alternative reading activities are available for pupils with severe allergies

• Hand washing facilities are available for use before and after interactions with Jaffle

• The headteacher's office and reading areas are regularly cleaned using appropriate products

• Jaffle is regularly groomed and maintains excellent hygiene standards

Parental Consent All pupils require written parental consent before participating in reading sessions with Jaffle. This ensures parents are fully informed and comfortable with their child's participation in the programme.

 

Recognition and Rewards

Our reading programme with Jaffle culminates in special weekly recognition:

The 'Pawsome Reader' Certificate Each Friday during our Celebration Assembly, selected pupils who have shown dedication to reading with Jaffle receive the coveted 'Pawsome Reader' certificate. This honour may be awarded to an individual pupil or a group who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the programme.

Public Recognition Certificate recipients also enjoy:

• Having their photograph featured in our weekly school newsletter

• A special mention on the school website

• The pride of being recognised in front of the entire school community

 

A Tail-Wagging Success

Jaffle's presence in our school has created a unique learning environment where academic achievement and animal welfare education go hand in hand (or paw in hand!). Through his gentle nature and enthusiastic participation, Jaffle helps create confident readers and compassionate individuals.

We're proud to have Jaffle as part of our school family, and we look forward to many more years of tail wags, story times, and 'Pawsome Reader' celebrations!

If you'd like to learn more about our reading programme with Jaffle or how your child can participate, please speak with your child's teacher or visit the headteacher's office (you might even get to meet Jaffle himself!).

For any concerns regarding allergies or to view our full risk assessment documentation, please contact the school office.