VPSHS has a new student support strategy and she has four paws

Victoria Point State High School might just have the most sought after school companion in the State - meet Maple.

Meet Maple, Victoria Point State High School’s new support companion.

A heart warming new initiative at Victoria Point State High School is lighting up social media with hugs, hearts and more than a few envious comments.

School principal Scot Steinhardt announced the school’s newest member late yesterday - a gorgeous chocolate Labradoodle called Maple, purchased “to support staff and students and provide another avenue of support”.

“Maple will begin her official duties in Term 4” but students will “see her in training around the learning as she learns the ropes,” Mr Steinhardt said.

From offers to babysit Maple to sentiments of congratulations for providing innovative support for students, social media was full of praise for the Redlands Coast school and its newest companion.

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Lyn Jones said “what a great idea”.

“What an amazing initiative” said Eimile Larissa Brown.

And Lyndy Knott: “She’s beautiful. How lucky are the students and staff at VPSHS.

Krissy Holliston had this to say about Maple’s arrival, “fantastic to see a school thinking outside the box!”.

With social media users jumping to follow Maple on Instagram other users were fast to say “we so need one at our school”.

Within minutes replies came in “let’s make it our PDP goal for this year”.

And more than a few sad faces from past students who felt they’d missed out.

Gabrielle Salfus said “literally the year after I leave”.

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But resoundingly comments supported the “Pet therapy is awesome” stance with dozens of “well done VPSHS”.

Melissa Cornish said Maple had caused “much excitement in this house upon hearing and seeing Maple. What a wonderful thing for everyone”.

School Principal Scot Steinhardt with Maple, the school newest student support companion.

And Janelle Josey had this to say about Labradoodles.

“I cannot speak high enough about Labradoodles as comfort and support animals,” Ms Josey said on Facebook.

“Our Lucy has been a great comfort and support to our family over the last few months. Congratulations to VPSHS for being so forward thinking and realising the magic of animal therapy for anxiety and other overwhelming challenges young people face today.”

Redlands MP Kim Richards congratulated Mr Steinhardt on her Facebook page.

“How gorgeous is Maple. Well done Victoria Point State High School”.

For Redlands Produce, who are “proud sponsors” the chance to support VPSHS was an opportunity to good to refuse.

“After being approached by Victoria Point High School, we couldn’t say no. We think it’s a fantastic idea for the school,” the local, independent produce owner’s page says.

“Thanks also to Advance Dog Food & Bono Fido Pet Products.”

Follow Maple on her own Instagram account.