4 June 2025
Kirkham Grammar School welcomed some very special guests this week as part of the school's efforts to support pupil wellbeing during the busy exam period.
The Lancashire-based independent school partnered with Guide Dogs, one of the UK's leading sight loss charities, to welcome local volunteers and their friendly guide dogs for a 'meet and greet' with pupils and staff.
The VIP guests included adorable Labradors, Thelma, Bunty, Kimber and Cara, who were a mix of guide dogs in training, 'Ambassador Dogs' and retired guide dogs.
The initiative, led by School Nurse, Helen Pyper, was designed to provide comfort and companionship for pupils in the midst of GCSEs and A-Levels, whilst raising awareness and vital funds for the Guide Dogs charity.
Helen Pyper said: "Research supports the positive influence of dogs on children and young people when it comes to boosting mood, reducing stress and anxiety, and lowering blood pressure. Dogs can recognise human emotion, and know how to show affection, so our pupils had a chance to relax, have a cuddle and go into their next exam with a smile on their face and a confidence boost.
"Academic achievement is important, but protecting the mental health of our pupils is our number one priority, so we're incredibly grateful to the Guide Dogs team for making this event possible."
Guide Dogs is funded almost entirely by donations, and Lynne Whittaker, Community Fundraising Relationship Manager said: "Our 'Meet Guide Dogs' events are a wonderful way to showcase the incredible impact of our dogs. Every day 250 people start to lose their sight in the UK - this is equivalent to one person every six minutes. We're here to make sure those people don't lose their freedom as well. Kirkham Grammar School gave us a valuable opportunity to put a smile on people's faces whilst raising awareness about our charity's ongoing need for community support and fundraising."
The initiative, in partnership with Guide Dogs, is part of Kirkham Grammar's ongoing commitment to supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of all pupils throughout their journey with the school.
To support Guide Dogs, or for more information on the charity, visit the website: https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/donate-now/