Meet Kobe

Our Four-Legged Friend & Support Dog in Training 🐾

Four paws, a wagging tail and a very important job to do!

Meet Kobe, our gorgeous four-year-old Cocker Spaniel and much-loved member of the Everly East Academy family!

Kobe is our Therapy Dog in Training, learning how to offer comfort, companionship and emotional support to the young people in our care.

Having grown up spending every day around children, Kobe is already very familiar with their energy, personalities and playful nature. Being around young people has always been part of his everyday life, giving him a wonderful foundation as he develops his skills as a support dog.

At Everly East Academy, we believe that education is about so much more than academic achievement. Feeling safe, building trusting relationships and developing emotional wellbeing are just as important.

And sometimes, a little bit of support comes with four paws and a wagging tail!

See Below for Kobe's Risk Assessment & Certification

The Power of Paws

For some young people, navigating school can feel overwhelming. Whether it's managing anxiety, building confidence, developing social skills or simply having a tricky day, Kobe is learning how to provide a calm, reassuring presence.

As part of our therapeutic and relational approach, Kobe may help pupils to:

Feel calm and regulated – offering a comforting presence during moments of anxiety or emotional overwhelm.
Build confidence and trust – encouraging positive relationships and interactions.
Develop emotional awareness – helping pupils explore and recognise their feelings.
Encourage communication – creating natural opportunities for conversation and connection.
Develop responsibility and empathy – learning about animal care, kindness and respecting boundaries.
Experience joy and belonging – because sometimes a friendly face and a wagging tail can brighten even the trickiest days!

All interactions are tailored to the individual pupil. Spending time with Kobe is always optional, and we recognise that not every young person feels comfortable around dogs.

Kobe is currently undertaking his journey towards becoming a fully trained support dog.

At four years old, Kobe brings plenty of life experience to his new role. Having spent his life around children on a daily basis, he is accustomed to the sights, sounds and excitement that come with being around young people.

His ongoing development focuses on building the temperament, confidence and skills needed to work safely and positively alongside children and young people with a wide range of additional needs.

Kobe's training focuses on calm behaviour, appropriate social interactions, responding to different environments and understanding the routines of a busy school.

Just like our pupils, Kobe is learning, growing and celebrating his achievements along the way!

Safety, Training & Wellbeing

The safety and wellbeing of our pupils, staff and Kobe himself are always our priority.

Kobe's involvement in school is managed through clear safeguarding procedures, appropriate risk assessments and ongoing supervision.

Our approach includes:

Risk Assessment: Assessing potential risks, including allergies, sensory sensitivities, individual pupil needs and safe interactions.
Staff Supervision: Kobe is supervised by designated staff and is never left alone with pupils.
Ongoing Training: His behaviour, development and suitability for the school environment are regularly reviewed.
Animal Welfare: Kobe has access to rest, breaks, water and a quiet space away from pupils whenever needed.
Pupil Choice: Interactions are always optional, with individual preferences and boundaries respected.

Kobe is a Support Dog in Training, rather than a fully certified therapy or assistance dog. Any external certification or assessment will be clearly identified once formally awarded.

A Little More About Kobe...

Name: Kobe

Age: 4 years old

Breed: Cocker Spaniel

Job Title: Support Dog in Training & Chief Tail-Wagging Officer

Experience: Four years of being surrounded by children, cuddles and everyday family life!

Favourite Activities: Long walks, playing fetch and spending time with his favourite humans.

Favourite Treats: Meaty snacks!

Special Talents: Bringing smiles, offering companionship and making people feel welcome.

Currently Working On: Becoming the very best support dog he can be!

Special Talents: Bringing smiles, offering companionship and making people feel welcome.

Currently Working On: Becoming the very best support dog he can be!

Kobe is just one part of our commitment to creating a nurturing, inclusive and therapeutic school environment where every young person feels understood, valued and supported.

We can't wait for our pupils to get to know Kobe and become part of his journey.

Because at Everly East Academy, we believe that every child deserves to feel safe, supported and celebrated – and sometimes, the best support doesn't need words at all.