As part of steps to help encourage engagement and improve the mental health and wellbeing of pupils, an East Lancashire school has brought in a school dog.

Five-month-old puppy Ludo is part of the 'Nurture Hub' a dedicated area for pupils to discuss problems in confidence, at Barrow URC Primary.

The miniature cockapoo is undergoing specialist training so he can be the ideal companion for pupils throughout their school day. His training costs have been covered by a £1,000 donation from Barratt Homes North West.

Nicola McArdle, school head, said: “This is a growing movement in many schools and provides both a source of learning and fun.

“Wellbeing dogs are a source of comfort and relaxation for both the children and the staff who may need someone to speak to.

“There is much evidence that children who struggle with relationships or managing their own emotions gain a great deal from spending time with a pet.

“We would like to say a huge thank-you to Barratt Homes for its donation.”

The dog mentor programme began in 2013 and has shared its knowledge and experience with a host of schools throughout the UK and Europe, with Ludo being the latest student of the programme.

The aim of the programme is to build upon the benefits of the human-animal bond by providing children with positive experiences that can help them educationally, developmentally, emotionally and socially.

Robert Holbrook, Barratt's managing director, added: “As a five star housebuilder, we like to lead the way, not only in the homes that we build but in the support and contributions to the local communities in which we build.

“We are happy to support Barrow URC Primary School once again in its latest venture, and we believe that its new 'Nurture Hub' will bring great benefits to the school children.

“Taking care of one’s mental health is of the utmost importance and we are proud to have helped Barrow URC to introduce Ludo to the school.”

The school is located just down the road from the developer's site The Brooks development on Whalley Road.