The ‘OakWell Education’ Dogs: A Big Part of Our Story.

Gentle giants, quiet companions, and a reflection of how we learn and grow.

Students and parents often ask about our dogs, so we thought we would tell you a little more about them.

Although 'OakWell Education' is primarily online, some of you may have been lucky enough to bump into us out and about—and if you have, you will know the dogs are always ready for a cuddle. They are always with El when she is tutoring, just out of sight of the screen, quietly keeping her company and very much part of the 'OakWell Education' environment behind the scenes.

We have two bullmastiffs, and they are as gentle and affectionate as they are impressive in size. Brontë is the brindle one. She is four years old and weighs fifty-eight kilos. She has a wonderfully calm and steady presence, often choosing to lie nearby, completely content just being close. She is named after Emily Brontë, who wrote Wuthering Heights—El's favourite book—which suits her perfectly. Nelly is the red-coated dog, two years old and weighs fifty-six kilos. She is named after the narrator of Wuthering Heights, continuing the literary theme. Nelly is a little more curious and playful, but just as affectionate, and both dogs absolutely love a cuddle from anyone who stops to say hello.

Some students do come to us in person, and they get to spend time with the 'OakWell Education' dogs. For many of them, this becomes a really special part of their visit. Being around Brontë and Nelly is naturally calming and soothing—their gentle nature helps students relax, feel at ease, and settle into their learning more comfortably. That quiet companionship can make a real difference, especially for those who might feel anxious or overwhelmed.

Something people often notice when they meet the dogs is just how well behaved they are—and that doesn't happen by accident. Brontë and Nelly go to weekly training classes, which we often describe as their version of tutoring… and El's too! Just like our students, they show up, learn, practise, and improve over time. They work hard in their sessions, building focus, discipline, and confidence, and it shows in how calm, responsive, and well-mannered they are.

There is a clear link here with how we approach tutoring. Progress doesn't come from pressure—it comes from consistency, patience, and the right support. The dogs are not expected to get everything right straight away; they are guided, encouraged, and given time to learn. That is exactly the environment we aim to create for our students. Everyone learns differently, and building confidence takes time, but with encouragement and steady practice, real progress follows.

Even when they are not directly interacting with students, the dogs help shape the atmosphere around our work. Education can feel intense at times, and having a calm, steady presence nearby makes a difference. It's about creating a space where students feel safe enough to pause, reset, and keep going.

They also represent the importance of connection. Not every student finds communication easy, and sometimes the first step is simply feeling comfortable. Dogs have a unique way of creating that sense of ease—they don't judge, they don't rush, they just offer quiet companionship. It's a reminder for us, that trust and understanding are at the heart of any meaningful learning experience.

The 'OakWell Education' dogs are not separate from us—they are a reflection of our ethos. They represent patience, consistency, warmth, and care. Their weekly 'lessons,' their calm behaviour, and the comfort they bring to both us and our students all mirror the environment we aim to create every day.

In essence, the 'OakWell Education' dogs don't just support what we do—they quietly represent it, reminding us that with the right guidance, time, and care, everyone can learn, grow, and thrive, and if you ever spot El out and about with two very big, very friendly dogs, do come and say hello!