Eighty-eight special-needs students at Warringa Park School will continue learning the ins and outs of getting around their city after the state government continued its backing of the Advance education program.
Danielle Barclay, acting team leader of the school’s Bethany Road campus, says the program helps teach students with learning difficulties how to negotiate the world of travel, getting to and from jobs.
Knowing how to use public transport helps students become independent, she said. The students assess themselves prior to, during and after travel, assessing how they went. They need to problem-solve when transport doesn’t arrive or is late.
“It has worked really well,” Ms Barclay said. “Seventy per cent of our students are travelling independently.”
Ms Barclay said the school’s careers program placed year 10 students in a range of workplaces, including early learning centres, supermarkets, automotive retailers and restaurants.
“This has taught the students to build up skills in the community, while setting them up with post-school options, helping them successfully prepare for their future,” she said.
Werribee MP Tim Pallas is a big fan.
“Young students get involved, make connections in their community and gain valuable experience and skills that will help them get a job and strengthen our local economy,” he said.
