Work Placement for Students with Disabilities – The ASTF Lighthouse Project – “Work-Out” Benefits for students and employers !

Jane Armstrong, Manager, Nareen Lodge Nursing Home at Bateau Bay is one of the many Central Coast employers hosting the work placement of a senior secondary student with a disability studying a vocational subject for their HSC.

In this instance, Simon Hungerford from The Entrance High School is practicing the skills he has learnt in the Hospitality course he is undertaking as part of the Higher School Certificate (HSC). Ms Armstrong said that hosting a work placement supports not only quality entry level training within the industry, but assists local students to develop employment and vocational skills necessary for future employment in the industry while they study their HSC. Working with Simon has also benefited her staff with opportunities to improve their communication, training and leadership skills.

Simon hopes to find employment in the hospitality industry as a Chef. In the classroom he receives a range of specialist support including in-class tutorials and practical assistance from support teachers and aides. If necessary Simon can access a range of support to ensure a successful work placement.

Simon is one of a number of Central Coast students involved in the ASTF funded Lighthouse Project – “Work-Out”. The Central Coast Region of NSW has been selected as one of three national projects designed to identify how to provide successful work placements for students with disabilities studying accredited Higher School Certificate vocational courses. The “Work-Out” Project is managed by Central Coast Business Education Network (CCBEN) which allows for a co-location of a range of mainstream work placement services. These services are funded by ASTF, BVET, NSWDET and DEETYA.

Daniel Hayes, the “Work-Out” Project Officer aims to develop sustainable business / education partnerships with key Central Coast employers which will provide ongoing opportunities for students. Specialised training for co-workers and school support staff will be provided in early 2001. The project also intends to promote access to vocational courses for students with disabilities. This is reflected in an increase by around 200% of projected participation rates from 27 students in 2000 to 70 students in 2001.