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Growing capacity for employment

Edge’s NDIS School Leaver Employment Supports is designed to build each participant’s capacity so they can achieve their employment goals. School Leaver Employment Supports is available for students in their final years of school or directly after leaving school.

Ethan came to Edge after finishing High School and was working towards a Certificate II in Horticulture. After Edge’s NDIS team and Ethan’s first meeting, it was clear he had a passion for flora and fauna.

The School Leaver Employment Supports program is designed to meet the challenges of participants moving from school to the workforce. This is achieved by the NDIS team getting to know each participant’s talents, skills and career aspirations. Ethan advised his NDIS Consultant Pete that he required assistance in building his confidence and developing his skills to find employment.

After identifying areas of improvement with Ethan, Pete assisted with interview practice, creating a tailored resume, time management, personal branding and presentation. Pete then began researching roles and companies that would align with Ethan’s interests and skills.

Pete and Ethan visited Hort Plan, one of Perth’s leading landscape and construction companies to gain an understanding of what roles are in the horticulture field. Hort Plan’s Director Michael and Ethan immediately got on with their shared interest in horticulture.

Michael’s willingness and supportive approach to get to know Ethan from that initial meeting transpired in Ethan being offered a work trial. During the work trial, Michael got to witness Ethan’s skills and positive attitude at work resulting in an offer of paid employment.

Finding supportive employers like Michael, with a flexible approach to the job interview process is an important factor in making employment outcomes a success for both parties.

Ethan has since transitioned into Edge’s Disability Employment Service (DES) division and has been working as a Gardener’s Assistant for three months. In the DES program, each client is allocated a dedicated Job Coach who regularly works with each client and provides assistance when needed. Ethan has been regularly supported by his Job Coach Chloe and advised Chloe that, “I really enjoy working with the plants and experiencing the industry.”

Since beginning his new role, Ethan’s mother has noticed an increase in confidence and motivation from Ethan to gain independence. Ethan is now working towards acquiring his driver’s licence.

We wish Ethan all the best in getting his driver’s licence and look forward to watching his journey.

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