Making a success of dogs in boarding

• Date: September 17, 2025
• Time: 10:00 – 12:00
• Cost: BSA Full Member Rate: £135, BSA Affiliate Member Rate: £170, Non-member Rate: £270
• Audience: Heads, Boarding staff, Heads of Year, Assistant Head Pastoral, Deputy Head Pastoral
• Platform: Zoom (online) Half-Day Seminar

Course outline:

Dogs have long played a role in boarding house life, and recent research continues to highlight the positive impact animals can have on children’s wellbeing. While the benefits are well-documented—particularly in supporting mental health—there are also practical and safeguarding considerations that must be addressed. Media portrayals can sometimes amplify concerns, making it all the more important to approach the topic with clarity and balance.

This seminar explores current research on the role of dogs in school and boarding settings, examines common risks and challenges, and shares practical ideas and real-life examples for integrating dogs safely and effectively into boarding environments.

Training topics will include:

• The latest research on the mental health and wellbeing benefits of dogs in boarding schools
• Understanding the risks, including health, safety, and liability concerns
• Practical strategies for introducing and managing dogs in a boarding setting
• Real-world case studies highlighting successful approaches and lessons learned

Learning outcomes:

By the end of the session, participants will be able to:

• Describe the key benefits of having dogs in boarding environments, particularly in relation to student wellbeing
• Identify and assess potential risks, and understand how to mitigate them responsibly
• Explore and implement effective strategies for integrating dogs into boarding house life
• Draw insights from case studies to inform their own approach

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