Supported learning the gateway to work opportunities
Certificate I in Work Education
Serving coffee at the Warran Glen Garden Centre and Café, Maudie-Rose Stone won’t spill a drop. “She has such great balance,” said her manager, Debbie Ranieri. “She’s an integral part of our business”.
Maudie-Rose doesn’t let her Down syndrome get in the way of her job. After a practical placement at the garden centre through the Supported Learning Network program at Swinburne TAFE, she was asked to stay on as a valued member of staff.
Debbie calls her one of the garden centre’s star waitresses. “She’s exceptional. She knows what all her jobs are, from showing customers their tables to making up bags of duck feed for the children,” she said.
Maudie-Rose is just one example of the Supported Learning Network’s success. She has a Certificate I in Work Education from Swinburne, which provides basic vocational training to young adults with special learning needs. The course aims to empower students by providing experiential and relevant learning.
The arranged work placements, small classes and specialist teaching staff all result in excellent outcomes for the students. Teachers
provide the students with ongoing support for five years after they finish the course.
“My favourite thing about work is helping the customers,” said Maudie-Rose, who has regular visitors who delight in her friendly manner
and excellent service. “Working at the nursery is a wonderful thing to do.”
After seeing first-hand how the program benefits students with special learning needs, Debbie would recommend taking on a student from the Work Education program to other businesses. “The Supported Learning Network is an excellent service to the community,” she said. “These kids deserve a chance.”
