WHETHER she’s walking about the school corridors or driving through traffic, Jessica Bailey is always recognisable because of her pet Cockatiel, Twix.

Usually perched on her shoulder or on the top of the front passenger seat in the car, her feathered friend loves being around people.

Bailey, an educator at Northlands Primary School, uses Twix as a valuable learning tool in her classroom, fostering responsibility and character building.

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“Initially the plan was for him to be a class pet where the children would take him home and look after him but we bonded over the years that it made it impossible. The learners all love Twix at school, some share their snacks with him, and some of them have the chance to clean his cage, all in moderation. I’ve found in the five years he has been with me that he has also helped some children come out of their shell and gain confidence and be a little braver because he is so affectionate,” she said.

Twix loves cuddles and kisses and his favourite food is toast, said Bailey.

“He is very sassy. He knows exactly what he wants and what he doesn’t. For example, in the car he has a little spot that he likes to perch atop, and he gets angry when people sit in ‘his’ spot. He also doesn’t like being by himself, so he can be very vocal about that. He also doesn’t like loud people or loud noises,” she said.

Studies have shown that pets can boost your mood and this has proven so for Bailey.

“He is like an emotional support animal for me and the staff and learners. I’ve seen how just by being around he lifts the mood. I had a young learner who absolutely adored Twix and he helped her whenever she was anxious or stressed,” she said.

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