Bobby the stress buster

Llanfyllin High School has introduced a novel way to support children through their tough times.

Bobby the Border Collie is brought into the school’s Hub every Friday to provide a therapeutic touch for students.

“Pets Therapy has been used in many settings over the years and Bobby is certainly producing great results already with some students stating that seeing him makes them feel happier, and others saying their anxiety is reduced by stroking an animal,” a school spokesperson told us.

“Bobby is proving to be very popular and gets lots of visitors during break and lunchtime too.”

Recently, a senior teaching professional said that every school should have a dog or another pet to reduce stress in the classroom.

Sir Anthony Seldon, the University of Buckingham vice-chancellor said it is “a powerfully cost-effective way of helping children feel more secure at schools”.

He was speaking at a conference about the need to improve young people’s sense of wellbeing, particularly with the increase in mental health problems being identified amongst the young.