Therapy Dog - Nessie
Meet Nessie: Broadlea Primary’s Much‑Loved Therapy Dog
Nessie joined Broadlea Primary School in September 2022 as a tiny 12‑week‑old puppy with a big future ahead of her. She began her training with Ability Dogs 4 Young People at Sandown Airport, just down the road from us. Over the next two years, she worked through a demanding programme designed to prepare her for life in a busy school environment.
Her training required her to master a wide range of skills — staying calm in crowded spaces, responding gently to different behaviours, and learning how to support children who may be feeling overwhelmed. Nessie approached every challenge with patience and enthusiasm, and by the end of her training she had become a confident, reliable therapy dog ready to support our school community.
How Nessie Helps Us Understand Our Emotions
Nessie works in a way that mirrors our Zones of Regulation approach:
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Green Zone – Calm and Ready:
When Nessie is relaxed and settled, she is in her “green zone.” This is when children can stroke her, sit with her, or simply enjoy her company. Her calmness helps pupils regulate their own emotions and settle into learning. -
Yellow Zone – Excited or Energetic:
If Nessie becomes a little bouncy or starts barking, she is showing us she’s in the “yellow zone.” This is a gentle reminder that our own excitement might be affecting her, and that we can help her return to calm by adjusting our behaviour. -
Red Zone – Overwhelmed:
Nessie has never entered the “red zone” herself, but she is very good at recognising when a child might be in theirs. If someone is feeling angry or out of control, Nessie naturally gives them space. Her behaviour shows us that strong emotions can feel overwhelming to others, and that taking time to calm down is important for everyone.
Through these interactions, Nessie helps children understand their own feelings and develop strategies to manage them — all without saying a word.
A Cherished Member of Our School Community
Today, Nessie is an established and much‑loved member of Broadlea Primary School. It’s hard to imagine our school without her. She brings joy, comfort, and a sense of calm to pupils and staff alike.
Every day, she reminds us that big emotions are a normal part of life — and that with patience, support, and a little kindness, we can all find our way back to feeling settled and ready to learn. If Nessie can do it, we can do it too.
