Meet ‘Maggie’ the latest popular pup to boost pupils and schools

By Good News Post reporter Kiera Shoemake, 18.

St Anne’s Church Academy’s latest staff member is Maggie the new school therapy dog.

The primary school in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset welcomed the five-month beautiful white and brown “cavapoo”.

Mrs Few and Maggie did eight-weeks of Zoom puppy training lessons. The pretty pooch is already stepping up to her role as a support dog, as she enjoys having lots of attention and a cuddle.

The school intends for Maggie to aid in students who may lack confidence in their reading skills, and for them to relax and find comfort while learning.

She will also help students who struggle with their emotions. The dog will support everyone’s well-being, by reducing anxiety and increasing motivation in the learning environment.

Maggie joins a rapidly rising number of dogs in schools across Weston-super-Mare and Worle. Show cocker spaniel Luna at Mead Vale recently became a Channel 4 TV star for her work. Ashcombe, Priory, St Mark’s and more all have school dogs. Gus, Buddy, Boshy, Jeffrey and others are becoming part of everyday school life.

Headteacher Emma Hardy-Smith said: “We think the benefits a school dog brings will make Maggie worth her weight in sausages!”