PUPILS in Bannockburn Primary have been 'Reading with Dogs' in an innovative pilot project.

Dogs Dylan and Scruffy have been visiting the school on a weekly basis to work with more than 20 youngsters in a bid to support their education and wellbeing as part of a partnership between the school and Canine Concern Scotland over the past two years.

They helped them feel calmer and improve their reading ability.

James Malcolmson, 11 from P7, explained the benefits by saying: “I love reading with the dogs because if I make a mistake, they don’t judge me or try to correct me, they just let me read.

“It makes me feel calm and relaxed, and helps me to get better at reading out loud.”

Mrs Sacha Oates, principal teacher, added: “I feel very privileged to be part of such an exciting and innovative project. Increasing wellbeing and self-confidence in our learners here at Bannockburn Primary is an integral part of our journey towards closing the attainment gap.

“Being able to witness for myself the significant impact that this experience has made on our young learners is extremely rewarding.”