GROWING up, many parents will remember the excitement of having a ‘dog in the playground’ but Witton Middle School went a step further this week and welcomed a new four-legged friend who was meant to be there.
Along with the new year five pupils, Winnie the cockerpoo puppy has started her training as the new school dog.
Headteacher Suzie Bourne said: “It is great to get back to school and to welcome 150 new year five pupils as they were not able to enjoy the usual transition activities during lockdown.
“They have been settling in perfectly and have had a superb first week.
“We have also decided the time is right to introduce a school dog to our team.”
Winnie is still very young and will not take on her full role supporting pupils for another 12 months, but she is enjoying getting to know the school one step at a time.
Eventually she will work alongside the pastoral and SEND teams to support vulnerable pupils when it is deemed appropriate.
“She has a fantastic temperament and will be a great member of our school community,” added Mrs Bourne.
