Guide Dogs Charity Assembly

Mrs Stanley and Ace, our School Council representative, were delighted to welcome trainers from the Guide Dogs to our whole-school assembly, Sarah with her German Shepherd, Oakley, and Rick with his Golden Retriever, Milo. Everyone was thrilled to see the puppies.

Sarah explained that Milo is 15 months old and already as capable as a Year 6 pupil, while Oakley, at 12 months, still has more to learn but can already press buttons at pelican crossings and, on command, find a chair, table, or door.

Guide dogs are provided to people with visual impairments, including those who are completely blind. This charity, established 95 years ago, supports individuals in navigating the world safely and independently. These highly trained dogs can save lives by helping their owners avoid traffic, manoeuvre around unexpected obstacles, and stop before stepping into the road.

Everyone was fascinated to learn that Milo is the 23rd puppy Sarah has trained. After approximately two years of training, the dogs are matched with their new owners. There are around 5,000 working guide dogs, each costing the charity approximately £102,000 over its lifetime. This includes food and veterinary care, which the charity provides until the dogs retire at around 10 years old.

Pupils were eager to ask questions, including:

“Can they walk upstairs?”
The dogs are trained to use stairs, lifts and even escalators, skills that require significant practice.

“Why is it so difficult to train a dog, and how do you help them learn?”
Training relies on consistency and positive reinforcement, with rewards such as biscuits or pieces of carrot, which the dogs enjoy.

It was a delightful and informative assembly. Mrs Stanley also thanked all the pupils for being respectful and quiet around the visiting dogs. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn more about one of our chosen charities and to understand how our donations are used.