Over the last few months we have launched a new initiative to encourage pupils to read more.

Walter, the reading dog, visits the school a couple of times a week so that pupils have the opportunity to read their book with him. Walter sets the children reading tasks to complete and when they have done so he stamps their learning logs with his paw.

Principal Jane MacDonald said ‘ We have found that the new initiative has had a great impact on the pupils. We wanted to not only encourage them to read more but also most importantly enjoy doing so and we feel this initiative has helped us to achieve this goal. The children really look forward to their reading time and we have noticed that many of them have grown in confidence when reading. Walter seems to have a calming effect on the pupils who enjoy stroking him and for some of the pupils they seem to find it easier reading to him rather than directly to an adult.

‘Thank you to Mrs Bailey and Mrs Inder-Grey for spending an afternoon with Walter every week, giving the children more of chance to read with him.’

If any other parents would like to read with Walter and the children on a regular or one-off basis, please speak to the office.