School leaver gains confidence

While at Loreto College studying in her final year of schooling, Teele was introduced to the CVGT team in Ballarat through our eligible school leaver program. The program supports students stepping into employment for the first time.

Meeting with Teele on a regular basis, Kylie, a member of the Disability Employment Services team in Ballarat, gained her trust and individualised an approach to employment.

“The meetings involved giving Teele confidence and advice to help make the transition from school to work a smooth one,” says Kylie.

“The team wanted to help build Teele’s confidence to be able to further continue her learning. She had completed a certificate III at school and didn’t think she could complete her diploma. We encouraged Teele to complete this and supported her in the process.”

As part of VCAL and Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, Teele was completing placement at The City of Ballarat’s Wendouree Children’s Centre. ​​​​​​​

Kylie (pictured below left) regularly met with the centre coordinator Mel (pictured below right) to ensure Teele was managing well during placement and to identify any barriers that needed to be addressed.

Together they established Teele was a great fit for the centre’s team and encouraged her to apply for a position when one arose. After a brief wait, Teele successfully secured a casual educator role that enabled her to work across numerous child care centres.

Kylie assisted Teele through the interview process with mock interviews, providing advice on what to wear and even walking her to the interview.

“This helped to make Teele feel much more comfortable with the process,” says Kylie.

“Teele is loving her work environment, working with children and especially the career path that she has chosen. Her smile says it all!”

Teele has been working with The City of Ballarat since May and is excited to be working in a job that she loves.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you to the staff at CVGT whom were friendly and helpful with their constant contact and support. I am now doing my dream job.”

​​​​​​​Her employer Mel is also grateful for CVGT’s support.

“CVGT have been amazing to work with, very supportive through every step of the process. From the beginning when Teele was looking to complete her studies, all the way through to her employment at our centre,” says Mel.

Employment consultant Megan says Teele’s job success highlights the importance of CVGT’s eligible school leaver program in helping youth navigate transition from school.

“Stepping into the world of employment for the first time can be a daunting process for many but with support from CVGT Teele has been provided with the confidence to further her studies in early childhood education and find employment that supports this study. The team is very proud of Teele and her new-found confidence.”