05 Feb 2020
Year 7 and new students weren’t the only first timers to attend QHS recently, 8 year-old Marlo also had her first day this week.
The Labrador X Border Collie whose name is Tongan for ‘Thanks’ will be making a regular appearance at QHS in the year ahead.
Marlo who is a trained animal assistant will be working with her owner and handler, incoming School Councillor and trained Psychologist, Linda Berthon.
The human and canine team, who are trained in ‘Animal Assisted Therapy’ are delighted to be at QHS.
“Marlo is amazing at helping young people identify and regulate their emotions. She just loves kids, she can read emotions and will instantly go to those who she senses need extra support,” said Linda.
Linda - also, a trained teacher will be at QHS 3 days per week. Marlo won’t be attending every day to give those students and staff who may have a phobia or allergy to dogs the opportunity to meet with Linda.
“I ask any students who have a fear or an allergy to dogs to call the front office and register their name so I am aware and can respond appropriately,” continued Linda.
With 17 years professional counselling experience, Linda was a former High School Mathematics/Computing teacher for 13 years.
“I moved to the region from Sydney to be closer to family and have fully embraced the tree change.”
Linda said she applied for the position at QHS as she is aware of the great reputation of the school and as a former Scone High School student and country girl, she feels comfortable being able to support county kids.
“Students can be referred to see me by a teacher or they can self-refer.
Students must make an appointment before-hand. They can see the front office during a break to make an appointment or can ask a teacher to arrange an appointment for them.
“I love counselling, I enjoy helping. Everyone has struggles and if they are supported through their struggles they can build resilience. There is a lot that can be done to do support long-term mental health through early intervention.”
Through her specialised work in the field of Victims of Crime and Trauma Informed Practice , Linda is an experienced practitioner and we are delighted to have her at QHS.
“Students may be facing big issues in school or at home, they may be working through their identity and future career goals as High School is such a key developmental stage and we are grateful to be here to assist,” concluded Linda.
Marlo, who enjoys kayaking with her owner and interacting with people of all ages is washed before every attendance at school - and Linda encourages all students, staff and visitors who come in contact with Marlo to be hygiene conscious and wash their hands after patting her.