Nurture Dog

Our Nurture Dog - Arnold
Arnold is an important part of our school family and plays a special role in our nurture provision. As our emotional support dog, he provides comfort, reassurance and a calming presence for children who need a little extra support. His gentle companionship helps children feel safe, valued and understood, creating opportunities for them to build confidence and develop positive relationships.

How Arnold helps
Arnold supports children’s emotional wellbeing by offering non-judgemental friendship and consistent, unconditional positive regard. His calm and reassuring presence can make a real difference to a child’s confidence, sense of security and ability to feel comfortable in school.

What Arnold does
Arnold works with small groups of children in our Nurture Room and also spends time with individual children during:

• Wellbeing check-ins: providing a comforting presence and helping children feel listened to and supported.
• Reset breaks: offering children a calm, welcoming space to pause, recharge and feel ready to return to learning.
• Emotional regulation: supporting children as they practise strategies to recognise and manage their feelings.
• Communication and confidence: encouraging children to express themselves, build trust and develop confidence through positive interactions.

The difference Arnold makes
Through his gentle companionship and reassuring presence, Arnold helps to create a nurturing environment where children can feel secure and supported. His contribution helps to:

• Build confidence and self-esteem.
• Reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.
• Encourage positive relationships.
• Support emotional regulation and self-awareness.
• Help children feel safe, valued and understood.

Arnold reminds us that sometimes a little comfort, a wagging tail and a trusted friend can make a big difference.