Dogs on Site Policy

Date: October 2026

Review Date:October 2029

Signed on behalf of the Academy Community Council:

Headteacher: Mrs L Wilmer

At Co-op Academy Friarswood, although we recognise that animals including dogs are an important part of children’s lives along with many families walking their dogs to and from school for their daily exercise, we have a no dogs on site policy.  This is due to the concerns and health implications for other children / families in our school community.

Guide Dogs

Co-op Academy Friarswood has a duty to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to ensure that disabled people are not discriminated against, under the Equality Act 2010.

• Where a person has a registered assistance dog, we will make reasonable adjustments to avoid discriminating against them.  We can't refuse service or entry to our school
• If a dog is used for therapy but is not a registered assistance dog, it's at the discretion of the Headteacher whether the dog is allowed onto the school grounds.  The decision will be based upon the relationship between the dog and the person's needs

A risk assessment must be completed before the dog comes either onto the site, or if this is not possible, before the dog comes into the building and in possible contact with adults and/or children.

Visiting Dogs

At Co-op Academy Friarswood, we recognise that it may be beneficial for our children to have visitors in school, who bring in dogs.  There are many educational and social benefits for this.  Before any dog comes onto the school site, the member of staff in charge of organising the activity must complete a risk assessment.  This risk assessment must be shared with the SLT as well as the owner of the dog.  Curriculum links as well as educational benefits must be identified.  If in any doubt, staff must not allow the dog onto the site.

Insurance / Liability

Any dog being brought onto the school site, for any reason, owners must provide evidence of insurance liability.

Health and Safety

At all times, any child/adult who has contact of the dog must follow the health and safety guidelines set out in the risk assessment along with following the Government guidance on Pets and Animals Contact

Dealing with dogs outside of the school site

Co-op Academy Friarswood accepts that many families will walk to and from school with their dog.  We ask that if you do need to come onto the school grounds, you carefully secure your dog on the fence away from the main entrance where children and adults will be walking.  If you feel that your dog will become unsettled or angry, please take your dog home and call the school to arrange a suitable time to meet.  If we have complaints from families, children or staff regarding your dog posing a risk, you will be asked to stay away from the driveways and main entrances to the school.
Co-op Academy Friarswood appreciates everyone’s cooperation with this.

All people will be treated equally including those within the nine protected characteristics.

Co-op Academy Friarswood is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people / vulnerable adults.  We expect all staff, visitors and volunteers to share this commitment.