FAQs
Below is a list of common questions we sometimes get asked about our workshops. We hope you find the answer to your query below. If not, you can always email us at [email protected] and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Do workshops involve a dog?
We no longer take dogs into schools to be part of our workshops. This decision was made based on research and advice from our trained behaviourists. If you would like to read more on our stance regarding dogs in schools, please refer to the School Dogs page on our website.
https://www.learnwithdogstrust.org.uk/school-dogs/
Back to top
What age groups do you talk to?
Our target audience is KS2 and all visits must include at least two KS2 workshops where possible. In instances where there are a larger number of KS2 groups to see, we can visit across multiple days. Alternatively, we can offer online workshops that might allow for more groups to be seen in one day than an in-person visit. We do offer one standalone workshop for KS1, but this would be at the Education and Community Officer's discretion and subject to booking requirements being met..
Back to top
How long does each workshop last?
Both in-person and online, workshops last 1 hour for KS2 and 30-45 mins for KS1 ( Please note that booking terms above apply for KS1 workshops).
Back to top
Where will the workshops take place?
Workshops ideally take place in a classroom, although we try our best to accommodate your needs. We can also offer virtual workshops via platforms such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams, providing you have the facilities to accommodate this.
Back to top
What equipment will the school need to provide?
We bring all the resources we need to deliver our in-person workshops. Presentations will be brought on a USB drive, so we need access to a laptop or computer connected to a projector or Smart Board. If this is not possible, discuss with your Education and Community Officer prior to a visit so alternative arrangements can be made.
For our online workshops, you will need access to Microsoft Teams or Zoom, and a working webcam and microphone in the classroom(s) that we will be delivering to. We recommend a test run prior to the workshops to ensure that everything is connected and working correctly.
We will discuss further requirements when you book.
Back to top
Do teachers need to be present during workshops and assemblies?
Although our Education Officers are skilled in the classroom, have teaching qualifications and up to date DBS checks, it is our expectation that a teacher will stay with their class throughout the session should any learners require additional support. If any leaners receive 1-1 or group support this should remain in place during our workshops. Additionally, teacher presence can help to reinforce our messaging beyond the Dogs Trust visit.
Back to top
Is there a limit to the number of free workshops we can have?
No there isn’t, we are happy to talk to as many KS2 classes and pupils that you would like us to. In fact, we would like to talk to every KS2 pupil in your school, every year that they are with you. It is through on-going education that we are most likely to improve dog welfare. As previously mentioned, there is some provision for KS1 too providing booking conditions have been met where possible
Back to top
How far in advance do we need to book a workshop?
We would generally advise booking a visit a term in advance. We can get booked up quite fast so we can’t always meet requests that are relatively short notice - it is however always worth checking with your local Education and Community Officer as availability can vary from region to region.
Back to top
Do you visit other settings, eg SEN schools, Secondary and home school groups?
We have very limited provision outside of mainstream primary school settings, but please get in touch with your local Education and Community Officer to discuss your requirements.
Back to top
How much does a workshop cost?
The Education Programme is not linked to fundraising - though donations will of course always be gratefully received! There is absolutely no cost for our workshops and you can book as many as you like.
Back to top
What does a workshop consist of?
Our free and interactive school workshops , focus on our key theme of Safe Behaviour Around Dogs, are delivered by our experienced Education and Community Officers. KS2 workshops last around 60 minutes, and KS1 (booking conditions apply) last between 30-45 minutes. The workshops are discussion- based and are focussed around PowerPoint presentations.
Back to top
Who can partake in a workshop?
Schools, community groups, families - anyone keen to learn more about how to be safe around dogs and how to understand our furry friends better.
Back to top
How do you interact with the children in a workshop?
Children will be asked questions and encouraged to engage throughout the session. The teacher plays a vital role in relaying questions and answers. In person workshops - we will adhere to social distancing guidlines at all times. We will ask that all children stay in their seats throughout the workshop and we will not supply any physical handouts to work from, the workshop will be entirely powerpoint based. Online workshop - You will also be able to see your Education and Community Officer via the live video link and you will need to keep your camera and microphone on to ensure optimal interaction and communication.
Back to top
What platform do you use for online workshops?
We can deliver our workshops via Microsoft Teams or Zoom, whichever is your preference.
Back to top
What involvement do parents/guardians have?
We request that parents/guardians are present throughout the the family workshops to help reinforce the learning and messages with your child, active participation is very much encouraged!
Back to top
How will you keep my child safe?
All workshops will be delivered by an experienced member of Dogs Trust Education Team. Workshops will be private, password protected and invitation only so that no one else can join. A copy of our safeguarding guidelines will be made available before the workshop.
Back to top
Why are Dogs Trust school workshops and assemblies important for your students?
Our school workshops and assemblies are relevant to the personal and social development, as well as the safety, of all children. Some of your pupils will live with dogs, some will not. Some of your pupils may be excited by dogs, whilst some may be afraid of them. Through our sessions we help all children have safer interactions with dogs in different settings.
Various research, including Tulloch et al., (2021) tell us that the most at-risk in the UK for dog bites are primary school-aged children, when at home. So, we focus largely on safe behaviours around dogs in the home; but also, dogs of friends/ family, and strangers when out and about.
Back to top
Do you offer any advice or support for those who are scared of dogs?
At Dogs Trust, we understand that not everyone is comfortable being around dogs and we know some people may also be scared of them. This can impact someone’s life in various ways from not wanting to go to the park or visit friends, to being worried about walking down the street in case they see a dog. Head over to our Building Confidence Around Dogs to find our downloadable booklet and other handy tips and advice.
Back to top
Can our school dog come along to the workshops?
No. We are excited to hear everything about your school dog during our visit, but we do not want them to attend the workshops. We want to make sure that the Childrens attention is focused on us and our safety messages at all times.
Back to top