MAXIMUS the turtle is a natural with the kids.

He is a 15-year-old freshwater turtle donated to Alexandra Hills State School’s Lizard Lounge.

Principal Wayne Fletcher said the school’s chaplain Terry Keen came to him with the idea over six months ago to help students with behavioural and social issues.

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“They have to learn about the reptile they’re looking after and accept responsibility for caring for the reptile,” Mr Fletcher said.

He said one boy who was having a tough time at home went in and was quickly able to calm down.

“He came up and said ‘That’s the best time I’ve ever had at school’,” he said.

The Lizard Lounge has bearded dragons, blue-tongued lizards, turtles and skinks.

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