The ultimate in teacher cutbacks? Primary school children told to read to a LABRADOR to improve their public speaking skills

By NADIA GILANI

Story time: Ten-year-old, Hollie the labrador listening to Ethan Moss, and Erin Jennings, both five and Ellie Moss 10, to help improve their literacy skills

Story time just got more exciting for school children who have a new reading partner.
Ten-year-old labrador, Hollie has been drafted in to help children at Gawsworth Primary in Macclesfield, Cheshire improve their literacy skills.

The black pooch will visit the school for one afternoon each week to quietly sit and listen to the children read her their favourite books.

The project is part of a programme launched by the charity Pets As Therapy (PAT), which provide animals for therapeutic visits in schools, hospitals and hospices.


Ellie Moss, 10, reads to Hollie who listens patiently

Headteacher Pam Childs said: 'Research has shown that many children find reading aloud a daunting experience but when reading to a PAT dog they often become less stressed and self-conscious.

'Hollie passed her temperament test with flying colours and is extremely friendly. We are really looking forward to the successful results it promises to bring.'

Pupil Lucy Holland, nine, said: 'I love her, she's absolutely gorgeous. I would like to read to her.'

Hollie's owner, mum-of-two, Frances Gregory, 50, found out about the charity when she was at Crufts and decided it would be the perfect job for mild-tempered Hollie.

source: dailymail