🐾 Meet Dewi, Our School Dog
Welcome to Dewi’s Page
Dewi is Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi’s much-loved school dog and an important member of our school community.
As a certified Burns Reading Dog, Dewi supports pupils’ wellbeing, confidence, emotional development and literacy skills through carefully planned interactions and reading sessions. Research has shown that school dogs can help children feel calmer, develop empathy, increase responsibility and improve their enjoyment of reading and learning.
About Dewi
Dewi is a friendly red Cavapoo (King Charles Cavalier Spaniel and Poodle cross). He was chosen for his calm temperament, intelligence and sociable nature. He is well trained, enjoys spending time with pupils and is known for helping to create a positive and welcoming environment across the school.
Dewi is owned by Mrs Lucinda Rees and works within the school as part of our therapy and reading dog provision. He has been assessed and trained through Burns By Your Side and is a certified Burns Reading Dog.
How Dewi Helps Our Pupils
Dewi’s role includes supporting:
- Reading confidence and literacy development
- Emotional wellbeing
- Positive behaviour and engagement
- Social interaction and communication skills
- Empathy, kindness and responsibility
Many pupils enjoy reading aloud to Dewi because he provides a calm and non-judgemental audience, helping them build confidence in their reading abilities.
Dewi’s Welfare
At Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi, Dewi’s welfare is a priority.
To ensure he remains happy and healthy:
- Dewi receives regular veterinary care and vaccinations.
- He always remains under adult supervision.
- He has dedicated rest areas on each school site.
- Pupils are never left alone with Dewi.
- He is free to rest whenever needed.
- If he is unwell or tired, he remains at home.
Working Safely with Dewi
To keep everyone safe and comfortable:
- Participation is always carefully supervised.
- Pupils wash their hands after interacting with Dewi.
- Noise levels are kept low around him.
- Pupils are taught how to approach and interact with dogs appropriately.
- Families may withdraw consent for their child to participate in dog-related activities if they wish.
Follow Dewi’s Adventures
Keep up to date with Dewi’s latest school activities, reading sessions and adventures by following his Instagram page:
School Dog Policy
Parents, carers and visitors can view our full School Dog Policy for detailed information about Dewi’s role, welfare arrangements, risk assessments and codes of conduct.
“Paws, Read, Learn, Thrive”
Dewi is proud to support the wellbeing, learning and happiness of pupils across Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi every day.
🐾 📚 ❤️