“It makes me happy to have work experience”- Joel

“He always comes home happy and excited after his work experience shift” – Joel’s mum

Mid last year we held a planning meeting with Joel (then a year 10 student) and his mum. It was in this meeting that Joel was introduced to the Employment Discovery framework and decided to utilise his current funding to start this process and discover his employment potential! At the time Joel was completing work experience at an Australian Disability Enterprise which he wasn’t really enjoying. Joel’s supports identified that this wasn’t the right placement for him and were keen to see Joel gain some experience in a field he was interested in.

Joel was supported to complete the discovery process and had assistance to develop a resume. A team of supports were created during this process which included Joel’s mum, his teacher and principal, former mentor from Inclusion WA and key staff from the Swan City Youth Centre that Joel attends weekly. All supports were interviewed and Joel was observed both in the household completing his weekly chores and at the youth centre. Following this it was apparent Joel’s vocational themes were cooking/food preparation and technology.

A range of local business were explored for informational interviews including local cafés, technology retailers and computer repair stores. This was completed by both Joel’s mentor and his mum (who was very proactive in the process!) Following the informational interviews Joel clearly showed interest in working at a café, where previously most discussions were around finding Joel work experience at a technology retailer. Joel with the support from his mentor identified many opportunities in the Midland area to complete work experience. Eight local businesses were interested in meeting with Joel to discuss work experience opportunities.

Joel is currently completing a 10 week work experience placement at a funky café in Midland with support from his mentor. He loves going to work experience every Saturday and the feedback received from the café owners and Joel’s mentor is that he is a very valued member of their staff. Joel started off doing a small amount of hours per shift but has quickly picked up new tasks which have seen his shift time’s increase. His mentor is now phasing out of supporting him. Where to after this? There has been some talk about extending his placement and eventually transitioning Joel into a paid position at the café. Stay tuned

Joel Bradford
Stratton