Tayto Brings Joy To All

Our Truro School Prep pupils are ‘welcomed with a wag’ two days a week by our lovely school dog, Tayto, who has been working as a PAT (Pets as Therapy) dog for seven years, two at Truro School Prep.

Having a therapy dog in school brings many benefits to our pupils, who are always excited to see Tayto on-site. PAT dogs can help support pupils with expressing their feelings and increase their confidence. They have also been shown to boost motivation and attendance and reduce anxiety amongst staff and pupils alike.

We caught up with Tayto on a typical school day, where, after greeting excited pupils as they arrive at school, attends assembly before popping into classrooms to brighten the lessons, give a supportive paw or deliver birthday wishes. In class, he supports pupils to focus with extra encouragement and comfort to those who need it. He is also on hand at breaktimes to provide reassurance and a well-being boost.

Tayto is a valued and loveable member of our teaching staff here at Truro School Prep and we would like to thank him and Ms Simpson for all of the benefits he brings to our school family.