The reading confidence of pupils from Wayland Academy Norfolk has risen with the help of a four-year old cocker spaniel.

Year 7 and 8 students, who struggle to read out loud around others, sit down with Dora every week as part of the Read2Dogs programme run by the charity Pets As Therapy.

Relaxing on beanbags in a quiet area of the academy, the pupils read to Dora while her owner, Sue Kay, provides help with any difficult words.

Year 9 student Emily Thomas-Lewin spent a term reading with Dora last year.

“It’s easier reading to Dora because you know she’s listening to you and you don’t have to worry about being picked up on too many different things.

“I know my reading’s improved because I can read books that I wouldn’t have picked up before.”

Main pic: Wayland Academy Norfolk year 8 pupil, Ashley Collins, reading aloud to Dora

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