Therapy Dog
Meet Pippa the Therapy Dog
Pippa started her role as a Therapy Dog in September 2025. She is a Labradoodle and was born on October 15th 2023. Pippa is calm and loving. She enjoys playing with her toys, going for walks and especially loves football.
Leyland St James CE Primary School have partnered with The Dog Mentor (https://www.thedogmentor.co.uk/) to ensure Pippa, the staff and children are trained to work alongside her safely. This allows both Pippa and the children to thrive in their enviornment together. At the bottom of this page there is more information including Risk Assessments and rules which staff and children follow.
Here's a glance at what Pippa offers to the St James family:
Dog Therapy Counselling
Working alongside our Family Support Worker, Pippa supports children who need additional time out of class to rebuild confidence, discuss life's challenges and she is always a good listening ear to our children.
Reading Dog
Pippa is a qualified reading dog. This means she listens to readers across the school accomponied by a trained staff member. This is also part of our wider SEND offer including vulnerable children.
Star of the Week
The children who are selected for Star of the Week are able to spend time with Pippa alongside Mr Atherton. Here, we share treats, talk about school life and children also get to stroke Pippa (following the special rules provided by The Dog Mentor).
Class Visits
Pippa visits classes every Thursday to welcome the children, bringing a big smile to their faces.
Headteachers Award
Children who are recognised for a headteachers award due to their own personal development are rewarded with additional time with Pippa alongside our Stars of the Week.
After a busy day of appointments, Pippa likes to have a sleep in her office...
