Torquay school pupils receive help with their reading from four legged friends
Bosun the golden retriever has been enjoying listening to stories from the children at Ilsham C of E Academy.
Reading companion Bosun has been helping pupils
Pupils at Ilsham C of E Academy have been receiving help with their reading from an unlikely source.
The school, based in Torquay, Devon, is part of the Learning Academy Partnership (LAP) and has recently joined an initiative where pets are brought in to help children strengthen their reading and communication skills.
The project, which is called Read2Dogs, aims to support children who are more reluctant to read by providing a more positive reading experience.
Pupils are able to build up their courage in reading by practising reading to one of the animals, before reading in front of their peers.
Pupils at the academy are currently reading to Bosun, a beautiful golden retriever, who is more than happy to listen to stories from the children.
The children feel at ease and very comfortable with Bosun and his trained handler, which contributes to improved wellbeing across the academy.
Jake Grinsill, Head of Academy at Ilsham Academy, said: “It has been lovely to see how much Bosun’s presence has brought joy to our pupils and how his support has already had a really positive impact on their confidence.
“As one of only thirty-four English Hubs nationally, reading for pleasure is at the core of Ilsham Academy and opens endless possibilities and opportunities for our children.
"We are always looking at ways that we can innovate and create new ways to engage our children in the wonderful world of reading.
“Our aim is for our children to be inspired and flourish in the future and this initiative is a fantastic example of how we remove barriers for our pupils.”
Get all the latest news, updates, things to do and more from your local InYourArea feed
