The finalists didn’t just win over the judges — they melted hearts and charmed even the Palace of Westminster’s security staff with their wagging tails and irresistible personalities.
In a tail-wagging celebration at the Palace of Westminster, a four-legged champion named Achilles has made history as the UK’s very first School Dog of the Year.
This remarkable Norwich Terrier from Danson Primary School in Welling, Kent, was honoured for his outstanding impact on pupil attendance, emotional well-being, and enthusiasm for learning.
The award—developed by the National School Dog Alliance (NSDA) and supported by the All-Party Parliamentary Dog Advisory Welfare Group (APDAWG)— recognises dogs who are integrated into school life with compassion, care, and a deep commitment to welfare.
Achilles, who works two days a week to maintain his well-being, has become a beloved figure at Danson Primary. Whether it’s greeting pupils at the gate or handing out his signature “Achilles Attendance” awards, he’s far more than a mascot – he’s a motivator, a comforter, and a cherished member of the school community.
Mrs Anne Allen, Co-headteacher of Danson Primary School and Achilles’ guardian, said: “From the moment he arrived, Achilles developed the most extraordinary rapport with the children. His presence has helped increase attendance and resilience across the school. We hear time and again how he’s boosting confidence, self-esteem, and a love for learning.”
The grand final, held on Thursday 3 July, brought together educators, pupils, MPs, charities—and, of course, dogs—to celebrate the transformative role of school dogs across the UK.
Achilles was selected from nearly 60 nominees, each representing schools committed to the highest standards of canine care and practice.
Joining him at Westminster were eleven other inspiring finalists, including Dennis, a gentle Cavapoo from Ysgol Heol Goffa in Llanelli, who earned second place for supporting pupils with special educational needs through the Burns by Your Side programme.
As pawprints of progress continue to spread through UK schools, Achilles proudly leads the pack – a small dog making a big difference.
Dr Helen Lewis, Associate Professor of Education at Swansea University and Co-founder and Chair of the NSDA, said: “Reading the nominations was an absolute joy for the NSDA committee and our esteemed judges. They confirm just how transformative a well-managed school dog programme can be. We applaud all the schools embracing this innovative approach to improving well-being, ensuring dogs are integrated ethically, safely and with the welfare of both students and dogs at the heart of everything they do. Hearing directly from the children and young people at the event today has been truly inspirational.”
Dr Marc Abraham OBE, media vet and secretariat for APDAWG, added: "Every one of the finalists would make a worthy winner. Dogs never judge or criticise – instead, they provide calm companionship that helps reduce stress and allows children to learn at their own pace. Research shows school dogs improve social integration and increase empathy and emotional awareness. They can also boost attendance, enhance attitudes toward learning, and teach vital life skills such as responsibility, respect, and compassion."
Hosted by Dr Abraham, the event featured speeches from:
- Baroness Sue Hayman, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA)
- Rosie Duffield MP, Chair of APDAWG
- The Earl of Courtown, Vice Chair of APDAWG
- Dr Helen Lewis, Chair of the NSDA
Sponsored by IT’S THE DOGS, with support from Kidscape, Therapy Dog Training UK, HarperCollins, LickiMat UK, and Photography by Frankie, the celebration shone a light on the growing movement of canine-assisted education.
Through the NSDA, Swansea University continues to shape best practice in the field, ensuring every school dog enriches pupils’ learning while supporting the dog’s own development and well-being.