Four-Legged visitors are welcomed to Peter Symonds

Struggling students who needed a break from exams made some new furry friends during a special college visit.

Peter Symonds College welcomed two Anatolian Shephard dogs to their new college building, The Hub. The breed is known for being calm, friendly and playful which was suited for these students.

The Hub is part of the pastoral support system at the college. It is aiming to support students’ emotional health and wellbeing. Hannah Edwards is the college’s mental health advisor and Hub Co-Ordinator.

Hannah thought that the students would benefit from interacting with the animals to enhance their well-being. Recent studies have shown that dogs make people feel good and raise their levels of oxytocin.

Speaking about the visit, Hannah said: “The dogs provide a very relaxing and calm atmosphere in The Hub.”

Mrs Edwards also went on to say: “It also helps the students who perhaps often lack confidence, to talk to each other and start to make friends outside of their normal social circle.”

This activity was to help the students melt away the stress of college work.