St Bernard's pupils welcome new four-legged classmate Trixie

The St Bernard’s principal believes they are the first mainstream school in the area to have a school dog — and no, it’s not a St Bernard!

Beatrix Bernard — known as Trixie — joined the school in November and is helping students with their reading, mental health and making the school day more enjoyable.

Trixie — a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a poodle, known as a cavapoo or cavoodle — had her first day at school at ten weeks old.

She has settled into school life well and even had a starring role in the school pantomime, playing the dog of Cinderella’s fairy godmother.

The idea for a school dog was a collaboration between Siobhan and deputy special educational needs co-ordinator, Jane Hawke.

“I have been doing research into having a dog in school and how it helps vulnerable children, particularly those with special needs and anxiety,” said Siobhan.

“I looked into a school in the south of England who had done it and it had been really successful.

“At the same time, Jane was also considering having a dog herself in her own home but she was reluctant because she works full-time — so we decided to do it together.”

Pupils, staff and parents were consulted on the idea and some concerns were raised over allergens so a non-allergenic breed was sought.

Parents were also keen for Trixie to be known as a school dog and not a therapy dog so children who spend time with her did not feel labelled.

“We brought her straight into school to orientate her,” said Siobhan. “She has two bases — one in Jane’s office and one in mine.”

The four-legged team member is undergoing “high-level training” and her achievements are celebrated in school, just like the children’s.

Her daily schedule is packed out, mostly with reading sessions with pupils to help them combat their fears over reading to adults or their peers and autistic children have bonded well with her. 

Trixie even attends staff meetings alongside Siobhan and sessions with the pup have become known as “Trixie time”.

Siobhan added: “She mostly listens to the children read, which is a key focus for us.

“We also have children who are anxious about starting the school day, so they have ten minutes with her in the morning.

“She’s regarded as part of the family. Staff have requested time with her as well — she’s a member of staff really.”

Siobhan said she had not been apprehensive about working with children and animals because she had felt confident in the research she had done — but admitted Trixie had exceeded her expectations. 

“I have been shocked by the positive impact she’s had on children and staff and the difference it makes having a dog in school,” said Siobhan.

“Having something the staff and children love and collaborate on is fantastic.”

Pupils and staff are now happier, less stressed and more relaxed, added the principal.

“There’s certainly a family feel to taking care of her and children are now thinking more about the environment because they want it to be safe for her.”