Meet Murphy – Our Therapy Dog in Training
We are delighted to introduce Murphy, our Therapy Dog in Training, who joined the school community during the Autumn term of 2024 at just eight weeks old. Murphy is a black Labrador and comes from a remarkable lineage of therapy and assistance dogs. His mother, Lottie, is a fully trained UK Therapy Dog, and his father, Finn, has sired puppies who have gone on to support a wide range of specialist roles, including hearing dogs, guide dogs, and dogs for veterans.
The decision to welcome a school therapy dog has been shaped by several years of discussion and experience-sharing with Mrs Lees, Assistant Head at Bournside, whose black Labrador also plays a successful role in their school community. Research consistently highlights the positive impact that school dogs can have on pupils. Benefits include reduced anxiety, increased confidence—particularly in reading—improved wellbeing, and opportunities for children to develop empathy, responsibility, and nurturing skills.
Murphy’s Role in School
Murphy lives with Mrs Flooks and her family and is gradually being introduced to pupils, staff, and the school environment in a controlled and sensitive manner. Murphy will also spend dedicated time with Mrs Chavasse, our Wellbeing Lead, as he begins to take his place within the wellbeing team.
To ensure safety and comfort for all members of our school community, the following measures are firmly in place:
- Murphy will always be on a lead when in the school corridors and will never be left unsupervised with children.
- No child or adult will come into contact with Murphy unless they choose to.
- Murphy uses a designated toileting area that pupils do not access.
Murphy is registered with Regency Vets, and full records of vaccinations, immunisations, and annual health checks are maintained by both the school and the veterinary practice.
Training and Development
Murphy began his formal puppy training with Barking Buds at 12 weeks old and continues to work through structured training programmes as he grows. His goal is to become a certified Therapy Dog through Therapy Dogs UK, with his assessment expected at around 20 months of age.
In addition, Murphy—along with two of his siblings, Olive and Magi—has been invited to take part in an important project at Swansea University. This research supports the work of the National School Dog Alliance, which aims to bring together experts from education, behaviour, and health to establish effective, evidence-based approaches to integrating dogs into school settings.
Ongoing Welfare and Safety
A comprehensive risk assessment underpins Murphy’s work in school. This documentation ensures the highest level of welfare for Murphy and all pupils, staff, and visitors. It is reviewed annually to remain current and responsive to his stage of development.
Latest Update – September 2025
We are proud to share that Murphy has successfully passed his Level 1 Companion Training with Barking Buds—an exciting milestone in his journey to becoming a fully qualified therapy dog.