How Betty is top dog with Ofsted school inspectors

A four-legged teaching assistant at a Suffolk primary school has helped it score top marks with inspectors.

Betty the labradoodle is a firm favourite among pupils at Woodhall Primary School in Sudbury where she is used as a therapy pet to help youngsters learn to read.

Her use was praised by Ofsted inspectors in their recent inspection in which the school was ranked 'Outstanding' in personal development of pupils.

Headteacher Matthew Fuller said she was introduced two-and-a-half years ago by her owner, Year 6 teacher Tracy Tate, who wanted to train her as a therapy dog.

"Since we've had her she's provided all sorts of therapeutic elements, particularly with some of the more vulnerable children," he said.

"The children love to read to her, which is great at getting some of the pupils who are reluctant readers to actually read.

"She is also great for children who are going through difficult times, such as family bereavement or break-up. One of our children would only talk to an adult through her.

"She's a massive influence within the school and she's absolutely adorable. The Ofsted inspectors loved her."