After a long and arduous recruitment process, Bournemouth & Poole College is pleased to announce the appointment of Woody as The College’s first Caring Canine.
Woody, aged almost 3, has been put through rigorous training ready to start his new job. His role will be based across both the Lansdowne and North Road sites, where he will spend his working days walking around the sites, meeting students and staff and providing care to those who need support throughout their time at college.
Jude, Woody’s colleague in wellbeing and safeguarding at The College, is excited for Woody’s first official day. She describes Woody as “well trained, very friendly and a bit daft!” Further to this, she said, “Although he isn’t officially trained as a therapy dog, he has proven his value in providing support to my family and especially my Son. I can really see the value a caring canine can bring to The College and can’t wait to see him get to work!”
Woody’s role will involve being accessible to distressed students for strokes, cuddles and moments of calm. When asked about how excited he was to start, Woody barked and ran to his bed – maybe he’s not looking forward to the early mornings!
Woody has now signed his contracts with both the Dog’s Trust and with The College, and briefly met the Principal, Diane Grannell, earlier in the week. He begins his new role in late September, initially contracted for one day a week at each site.