Anthem Schools Trust honours canine helper Alfie for work at The Deepings School

A volunteer and her four-legged friend have won an award for their work helping school pupils.

Christine Bratt and Alfie, her Pets as Therapy dog, visit The Deepings School twice a week to spend time with young people and have been recognised by the school’s trust, Anthem Schools Trust.

Their service is part of the Deeping St James school’s intervention programme to support pupils with a range of additional needs.

Alfie has his own spot in the school’s learning development area and has become a canine best friend to the students, and according to the school, he loves to be read to.

His owner, Christine, also helps by offering a calm and consistent approach.

Kirstie Johnson, headteacher at The Deepings School, said: “We are incredibly proud to see Christine and Alfie win this award from our multi-academy trust, Anthem.

“Their presence means a great deal to many across our school community and we are very grateful for the support they provide.

“We would like to thank Christine for her ongoing support of The Deepings and Anthem for its recognition of the impact her work has on our students.”