The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Therapy pet to help Fife pupils cope with anxiety
Bell Baxter pair praised as campaign pays off with arrival of puppy
She’s not just cute and cuddly – golden retriever Bella is set to help Fife school pupils through a ruff time as she takes up a new wellbeing role.
Staff and pupils at Bell Baxter High in Cupar welcomed the adorable eight-week-old puppy to school yesterday after pupils campaigned tirelessly for more than a year for the therapy pet.
It started as an English persuasive essay assignment, but Callum Christie and Logan Fenton, who will both be entering S4 next month, were delighted to see the project become a reality.
Their research discovered the benefits therapets can have in reducing stress, anxiety and support for young people.
The boys secured the endorsement of the school’s senior leadership.
They went on to raise £2,500 for the initial purchase and set-up costs for Bella.
Logan, 15, said: “Bella will be a calming presence and she will make us all feel safe. It will be nice to be able to look to her for support with anxiety.
“I know it would have helped Callum and I with our frustrations during first and second year.”
Callum, 14, added: “It’s a really good opportunity for us and we’re very excited to have Bella join us at school.
“We’re very thankful to Ms Penrose for supporting us with this project. It will be a great opportunity to make Bell Baxter a greater place for young people.”
Bella will live with support teacher Linda Jeffrey, who will supervise her initial training. When Bella is not in school, she will be a beloved family pet.
She was given a tour of the school yesterday and will be introduced to school life gradually and carefully as she gets older.
Bell Baxter rector Carol Ann Penrose praised Callum and Logan’s determination in the project.
“Logan and Callum are the real stars here. They have believed in this project from the start and have been relentless in making it happen,” she said.
“These Bell Baxter pupils embody our school values of togetherness, curiosity and excellence and I am extremely proud of what they have achieved together.”
Protocols have been put in place for young people or staff with pet allergies or phobias. Anyone with any concerns or questions should email Mrs Jeffrey at: bellbaxterhs.enquiries@fife.gov.uk.
A JustGiving page has been launched by Bell Baxter pupils to help raise money for Bella’s ongoing costs.