Buddy, a five-year-old golden retriever, has his own stocking this Christmas.

And children at a primary school have been packing it full of card and presents for him to eat on Christmas day.

John Letts, head teacher at St Ethelbert’s Catholic Primary School in Dane Park Road, Ramsgate, was asked to look after his daughter’s dog when she had a baby.

He said: “I didn’t like leaving Buddy at home for most of the day so, as he is so placid and loves company, I decided to bring him into school.”

The cute canine was an instant success in his new role as class pet giving cuddles to anyone who needed them and being someone to talk to when grumpy.

Mr Letts said: “He first visited each class and showed the children how obedient he is - sitting on command, raising a paw and laying down for any child who asked him.

“The wellbeing of all the pupils, parents and staff has increased as he greets all with a friendly wag looking for food!

“Everyone loves to pet and pat him whenever they get the chance.”

Mr Letts often catches staff smuggling in dog biscuits for Buddy.

“I have heard about reading dogs in primary schools, but Buddy’s impact on the school has surpassed all expectations...” - head teacher John Letts

Chairman of governors Claire Turner said: “Buddy has reduced possible exclusions, improved a boy’s writing and lifted up the spirits of sad children.

“He is very popular to read to and is a great good behaviour reward as he is invited to stay in a classroom as a treat.”

Reception class teacher Trudi Bailey wanted an interesting class pet and Buddy fits the bill perfectly.

He sleeps outside her class with his bed, water bowl and lead.

Mrs Bailey said: “The children keep giving Buddy a cuddly toy to hold and he steals the class football if given the chance.

“Even the PTFA have invited Buddy to sit with Father Christmas at the Christmas fair and he has his own special Santa suit!

Mr Letts said: “I have heard about reading dogs in primary schools, but Buddy’s impact on the school has surpassed all expectations.”