Putting His Paws Up: Celebrating Tayto’s Years of Service

Our much-loved therapy dog Tayto is retiring from his role at Truro School Prep, having been our Prep PAT (Pets as Therapy) dog for four years. Working under the care of Ms Sarah Simpson, SEND and Pastoral Support Teacher, Tayto has been a familiar, comforting presence across the school community. As he prepares to enjoy a well-earned rest, he leaves behind countless happy memories and grateful hearts.

At 12½ years old, Tayto has spent nearly a decade working in schools, sharing his calm nature and gentle encouragement with pupils and staff alike. From the moment he arrived each morning, greeting excited children at the school gates, Tayto’s day was full of important duties.

A typical day might begin with assembly, where he would sit proudly among pupils before heading off to visit classrooms across the school. In lessons, Tayto had a special way of helping pupils focus, offering a reassuring presence and the occasional supportive paw when it was needed most. For some children, a quiet moment with Tayto made all the difference, helping them express their feelings, build confidence and return to class when the day felt overwhelming.

Having a therapy dog in school brings many benefits. PAT dogs are known to help reduce anxiety, boost motivation and even improve attendance. Tayto embodied all of these qualities, soothing worries for both children and staff and bringing a sense of calm wherever he went.

Beyond the classroom, Tayto was also a cheerful participant in wider school life. Over the years, he attended assemblies, open days and summer fayres, and even joined the choristers for Evensong at the cathedral. He fully embraced the fun of school traditions too, taking part in dressing-up days, and delivering birthday wishes with his trademark wagging tail.

Perhaps Tayto’s greatest gift was the joy he brought simply by being present. Breaktimes often saw him surrounded by pupils seeking a moment of reassurance or a well-being boost, and he never failed to brighten the day.

Tayto will be hugely missed by everyone at Truro School Prep, but his legacy of kindness, comfort and companionship will remain part of the school for years to come. We thank him for every pawprint he has left on our community and wish him every happiness as he deservedly puts his paws up for a relaxing retirement.