SEND Students
Work Experience & Placements for Young People with SEND
At Halo Dogs, we believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and be included. Since 2009 we have offered work experience placements and since 2021, we have proudly made these available to SEND students and also partnered with Oaktree School to provide meaningful work placements for children and young adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). These placements have proven to be life-changing for students, parents, and our team alike.
Our Track Record
Over the last four years, Halo Dogs has successfully hosted dozens of SEND students from Oaktree School in structured placements. Many of these young people have gone on to build skills that support independence, confidence, and even pathways into future education and work opportunities.
“My son, Alfie, is a student at Oaktree school – and attends work experience on a Monday.
Alfie absolutely loves coming along and helping out each week. He looks forward to it, and talks of not much else every weekend.
I can’t thank you enough for giving him this opportunity. As his mum, I’m overwhelmed by the amount of kindness you have all shown my Alfie.
Long it may continue!!” — Parent of Oaktree School student
Who Can Take Part?
- School-age children seeking structured work experience opportunities
- College students completing vocational courses
- Young adults exploring future employment pathways
- Individuals with SEND who benefit from practical, hands-on learning
What You’ll Experience
- Assist with daily care routines including feeding and welfare checks
- Observe and participate in supervised enrichment activities and play
- Learn about safe, positive dog handling techniques
- Support staff with cleaning, preparation, and facility upkeep
- Work as part of a professional dog care team in a safe environment
Benefits of Our Work Placements
- Boosts confidence and nurtures independence
- Develops communication and social skills
- Encourages responsibility and routine
- Provides real-world animal care experience
- Improves wellbeing through daily animal interaction
Outcomes for Participants
- Greater self-esteem and motivation
- Transferable life and workplace skills
- Practical experience for CVs and college applications
- Clearer pathways into animal care, veterinary support, or wider employment
Support & Guidance
Each student is supported by a dedicated mentor, with all tasks tailored to ability and interest. We work closely with parents, carers, and schools to ensure placements are safe, inclusive, and enriching.
How to Apply
Register your interest in a placement
We welcome enquiries from parents, carers, schools, and SEND support organisations.
Halo Dogs — Where every student has their day… Every day! — Join the revolution