HE is cute and cuddly and wants to make friends with everyone.

Lovable Bailey is helping children at Rudheath Primary Academy to relax, overcome their anxieties, improve their learning and gain confidence.

The cocker spaniel puppy is gradually being introduced to 360 pupils at the Gadbrook Road school as a nurture dog.

He currently goes to school three days a week and starts full time in the new year.

Head teacher Andrew Ross said: “The children absolutely love him.

“For a while we put up pictures of Bailey so they knew he was coming.They were really excited.”

Bailey belongs to emotional learning support assistant Jackie Story and stays in her classroom under constant supervision.

Mr Ross said: “The idea is that the dog will aid children with their social skills and provide a calming presence.

“The primary purpose is to motivate, inspire and engage pupils in learning.

“We have had children whose relatives have died and they have been able to give Bailey a cuddle.”

A cocker spaniel was chosen by staff and governors as this breed has a gentle and sensitive nature but is also highly intelligent and easy to train.

It is hoped that Bailey will take part in small group lessons and provide an incentive for pupils who meet individual goals in behaviour, social skills and academic achievement.

He is already helping children to relieve stress and chill out.

“He is a great, gentle dog that just wants to snuggle next to you,” said Mr Ross.

“Children just want to sit and stroke him, a few read him stories.

“Having a pet is such a good experience but for children who don’t have one at home this is a chance to give them access to a dog.”

Research has shown that therapy dogs in schools increase bonding and happiness and lower stress.

Bailey spends time with individual children throughout the day and all pupils can meet up with him at lunchtime.

“We will be allowing children to take him for a little walk,” said Mr Ross. “A teacher will be with them. He has his own space on the school field.

“As Bailey gets more used the the children, they will see him as they come into school.

“At the end of the day he is flat out on his back from all the attention he gets.”