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Laying foundations for work

Building Block

Build expectations and experience about work and plan for what happens after secondary school. 

A young person applying makeup to another person. The young person is smiling but focused on the task.

Overview

The road to employment starts long before a person begins job hunting. For young people with disability, it’s important to build expectations, skills, knowledge and experience early – both for the individual and their families - while the person is growing up.  

Early preparation for employment does not happen by chance. Families, schools, careers counsellors, employment services, vocational trainers, employers, and community groups all play a role in this stage. Working together ensures young people can develop a clear employment vision and gain the skills and experience they need to succeed. 

Key strategies for success 

A range of evidence-based strategies can be used, including: 

Building early expectations of work
The best way to support young people with disability to gain employment after they leave school is to encourage them to have high expectations and start…
Explainer
Building supporters and networks
Young people with disability are more likely to find a job or enter training after leaving school if they have a strong support network – people who believe in…
Explainer
Designing a career plan
Designing a career plan is about more than just finding a job – it is about building a foundation for adulthood, independence and community participation.
Explainer
Work experience
Participating in work experience and learning about work in real workplaces, is a predictor of successful employment for young people with disability.
Explainer
School to work transition
Every young person deserves the chance to step confidently into their future. School to work transition is a shared responsibility, with families, schools,…
Explainer
Rhiannon’s work experience
The video shares Rhiannon’s Year 10 bakery work experience, showing how planning, strengths, and community connections created meaningful inclusion. Her story…
Video
  • Employer capability
  • Training and education
A guide to support young people with disability into after school jobs
A short guide with tips for services and supporters of young people with disability to help get an after school job.
Guide
  • Employment services
  • Training and education

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