At East Leake Academy, student wellbeing sits at the centre of everything we do — and one very special member of staff plays a quiet but powerful role in that every single day.
Bubba, our 12 year old English springer spaniel, has been part of the academy for the past five years. He attends school four days a week and can usually be found in room 117, where he works alongside Mrs Glover providing emotional support to students when they need it most.
Throughout the day, students visit room 117 not only to talk, reflect, or regulate their emotions, but also to spend time with Bubba. They stroke his ears, give him plenty of tummy tickles, and often take him for gentle walks around the academy grounds. For many students, this simple interaction is enough to lower anxiety, calm racing thoughts, and create a moment of safety in what can sometimes feel like an overwhelming school day.
Bubba has an incredible ability to sense when a student is struggling. Without being prompted, he will often climb up onto the sofa beside a student who is upset or stressed, gently leaning into them as if offering a hug or he will sit across their feet providing comfort. In those quiet moments, when words are difficult to find, Bubba provides comfort in a way that nothing else quite can.
His presence has made a significant difference to the counselling provision at East Leake Academy. He offers a gentle distraction during difficult conversations, helps students feel more at ease when entering the room, and creates an environment that feels safe, warm, and welcoming.
Over the years, Bubba has supported students through many challenging situations. He has been there during moments of anxiety, distress, and emotional overwhelm, helping students to feel safe, grounded, and cared for. For some, he is the reason they feel able to step into room 117 in the first place.
Bubba is well-known for his handsome face and cheeky personality. He enjoys collecting treats from around the academy, he enjoys destroying an empty water bottle (or two) and is particularly fond of one daily ritual — at exactly 1pm, Bubba makes his way with Mrs Glover to the canteen to collect his lunchtime snack: a sausage.
Bubba is, without question, one of the most popular members of staff at East Leake Academy. Students, staff, and visitors alike are drawn to his gentle nature and calming presence.
Mrs Glover, ELA’s academy counsellor and Bubba’s pet owner recognises how meaningful a pet can be in transforming one’s emotional support and how this in turn, can benefit the student community. Together, Mrs Glover and Bubba create a space where students feel heard, understood, and, most importantly, safe, and we are very proud and privileged to have them.
