Rocco

Rocco is our school dog. He is a friendly young black Labrador and joined The Duston School in April 2025, when he was 2 years old.

Rocco is a key member of our Safeguarding and Pastoral team in the school. He is on-site two days per week, and works with children on an individual basis, as well as spending time with as many pupils as possible during social times. Rocco loves attention and his presence at school never fails to put a smile on the faces of everyone who meets him throughout the day. We believe that animals can have a significant positive impact on mental health and wellbeing, and Rocco is brilliant at helping us all to be present in the moment.

We are committed to continuous professional development for all members of our school community, and Rocco has been no exception.  He worked hard to achieve his Bronze and Silver Kennel Club Good Citizen Scheme in 2025. Alongside his handler Mr Dewes, they worked through the training workshops together. Mr Dewes completed written assignments, and Rocco passed the temperament assessment for Rocco to officially become a therapy dog.

Rocco is involved in primary phase sessions with every primary school child to raise awareness with children on how to approach, behave and act near animals.  Rocco brings much more than just a friendly smile to TDS, and we all hope as many people as part of our community will meet Rocco.

The image below is Rocco, Mr Dewes, and the leadership team of Rocco Club, which is a secondary phase extra-curricular club that runs weekly.