Quorn Hall School, a specialist school in Leicestershire that caters for students with autism and social, emotional and mental health needs aged 6-17 years old, has recruited an unquestionably cute new furry staff member!
Master Basil Bones joined the dedicated staff team in May 2021 in the exciting new role of ‘School Therapy Dog’.
Everyone’s friend
Basil has to be the most loved and spoiled member of the team at Quorn Hall School. He is everyone’s friend and is brilliant at building relationships, especially when treats are on offer!
The Nature of his breed almost guarantees his friendly character. He doesn’t get annoyed with the constant flow of petting and fuss! Of course, the most obvious wins are the sensory benefits that students (and staff!) get by stroking his fabulous curly coat, but there is much more to Basil the Cocker-Poo – more than people realise!
Helping communication
Basil often helps the students communicate how they are feeling: some find it easier to talk to Basil while the supportive ear of a staff member is sat close by, listening intently and working out how best to support them.
Basil is especially good when students are feeling sad: time with Basil gives our students time to breathe, relax and self-regulate. It’s often a welcomed way out of a difficult situation, with no shame attached.
Staff teach the children the ways in which Basil naturally communicates his needs, how he copes with certain situations, and how he might react when he is scared, sad or angry.
This, in turn, helps improve the children’s communication skills, helps them realise their own emotions and strategies.
Supporting behaviour
Something as simple as having a drink, running around or getting a snack can all support meeting the basic needs of children when they are having a tough day. Basil is very often a positive distraction and a key part of identifying the needs of a child and supporting positive behaviour.
Basil has even supported some reluctant readers to jump up the levels. Many have welcomed his company in the library when they have a reading task. He is a great listener (although his feedback is limited) and often requires a treat in return. The calmness of his presence works wonders in building children’s confidence in reading and other situations.
Helping with anxiety
Many schools struggle with attendance targets. Well, Basil comes to the rescue in this department, too! Who can be shy when there is a cute, fluffy dog wagging his tail at you? Not only does he help new students and support them through their transition periods, he can also do home visits when students are experiencing high levels of anxiety.
Many of the school’s SEMH children thrive on knowing that Basil will be there on a Monday morning, wagging his tail to welcome them. What a great start to the week!
New dog, new tricks
We mustn’t forget the tricks… Basil’s talents are endless! We encourage children to approach Basil with a smile, standing up straight with shoulders back: this helps them gain his attention before they give a command. Many of the young people have acquired the skills of a dog trainer and have successfully learned how to ask Basil to sit, twist, give his paw, lie down, fetch and drop and, of course, give a high five!
Not only does this reinforce the human/animal bond, it quickly gives children a sense of achievement, satisfaction and success. You’d be surprised how much this positively influences their social skills, as they pass them on to other children and show off their training skills to the Headteacher and visitors.
Visit www.quornhallschool.com to keep ‘pup’dated with Basil’s progress!
Click here for a virtual tour of Quorn Hall School