Reception pupils at St Francis Primary School in Ventnor welcomed 3 special visitors – including a working guide dog – for an unforgettable lesson in empathy and awareness.
Reception Class at St Francis Primary School in Ventnor were treated to a memorable visit from the Guide Dogs, with Danielle, Lisa and a very clever guide dog named Bailey spending time with the youngsters.
Danielle explained Bailey’s important role as a guide dog and how he supports her in day-to-day life. Pupils listened intently as they learned about the specialist harness Bailey wears while working and the vital job he performs in helping Danielle navigate safely and confidently.
The class asked plenty of thoughtful questions and were praised for being exceptionally well mannered and engaged throughout the session.
Children were taught that when Bailey is wearing his harness, he is ‘on duty’ and must not be distracted, as he is concentrating on keeping his owner safe. Once the harness is removed, however, Bailey is officially ‘off duty’ – and that is when the children were able to ask permission before gently stroking him.
Teachers linked the experience to the class’s previous learning around consent, reinforcing that just like people, animals may not always want to be touched and that it is important to ask before approaching or petting a dog.
The school has thanked Danielle, Lisa and Bailey for taking the time to visit and for delivering such an important message in a way Reception pupils could clearly understand and remember.
