A SPECIAL party to say farewell to a much-loved member of the school community took place at Lynburn Primary last week.

Pupils and staff gathered for the retirement do of therapet Ozzy, who is hanging up his bandana after reaching the age of 14.

Nurture teacher Emily Laranja said their four-legged friend would be greatly missed.

"Ozzy has been visiting children at Lynburn since 2019," she said. "He would visit groups of children weekly who would come and read to him. Usually, it was children who found reading a challenge or lacked confidence.

"What we found was children were more comfortable reading to Ozzy than reading in groups or to an adult. It was less intimidating for them."

Over his time at Lynburn, Ozzy's role, under the guidance of his owner, Gail, changed and evolved as the pupils got to know him.

"We found that children quickly bonded with Ozzy, he has such a lovely, calm nature that children just seem to gravitate towards," added Ms Laranja.

"There have been so many children who have benefited from time with Ozzy over the past few years. He has had such a positive impact on the emotional wellbeing of children, and if the emotional wellbeing of children is nourished then successful learning is more likely to transpire.

"Gail and Ozzy have been an integral part of our school life and we are so grateful that we have had the opportunity to work together."

Lockdown meant Ozzy wasn't able to visit school for a period, however, photos of the popular pet were sent in for the children and he would even visit the school car park so the children could see him through a glass door and have video calls.

When the school heard about the plans for Ozzy to retire, they wanted to ensure he had a fitting send-off.

"We wanted to give everyone an opportunity for a goodbye," added Ms Laranja. "Helping children to transition towards an ending helps them to properly process the normal emotions they experience during change and loss.

"We held a retirement party for Ozzy, an opportunity for one more happy memory. Groups of children who he was currently working with came along for cake.

"Some of the children who had benefited from his weekly visits in the past also had the opportunity to come and wish him well. It was an emotional afternoon for all of us.

"They (Gail and Ozzy) have been an incredible support to the children and staff at Lynburn and we would like to express our gratitude for all they have done."