A NEW furry staff member has joined the team at a school in Evesham.

The De Montfort School (TDMS) has hired an 8-month-old golden retriever who has been "brightening" up the students' lives.

Ivy is a therapy dog in training who will be supporting students with their learning and reading skills and supporting the SEN department.

TDMS first welcomed Ivy in September, and since joining, she has built up quite a following amongst the local community.

Evesham Journal: Ivy has been trying to cheer the children up in multiple ways. Ivy has been trying to cheer the children up in multiple ways. (Image: The De Montfort School)One year eight student said: "Ivy is an amazing dog that brightens everyone up every day."

Ivy joins the staff at the school gate each morning to welcome the students as they arrive at school and has already begun helping students if they are worried.

She has also been seen helping sort out uniform issues at the standards gate.

Ruth Allen, headteacher, said: "Throughout the next 18 months of Ivy's life, she will continue her training both in school and at home to enable her to become a fully qualified educational therapy dog.

"Ivy will become part of small intervention groups within the school to support students with their learning and aid the development of students' reading skills as well as support within the SEN department.

Evesham Journal: Ivy suited up ready for a day at school.Ivy suited up ready for a day at school. (Image: The De Montfort School)"However, for now, Ivy is very much a part of school life at TDMS, and she loves every minute of her time at work."

The school decided to employ Ivy after scientists revealed that the use of therapy dogs in schools may help improve students' mental health, encourage enthusiasm about learning, and help them fit in better with their peers.

Ivy's work at TDMS began with her coming into school for training days only and then short periods in school to allow her to feel safe in the school environment.

The school consulted with parents and carers and completed the rigorous risk assessments associated with introducing a school dog.

When moving around the site, Ivy always remains on a lead and even has a lanyard proving her 'bone-fide' status in school.

Mrs Allen added that Ivy's positive impact on the school community was clear after just a few weeks.