Struggling Students: Transitioning from School to Work
Hamish Cleary, 20, and Jonty Campbell, 19, are two students at Rangiora High School grappling with the uncertainty of life after school. Hamish, who enjoys building, gardening, and lawn mowing, like many others, is contemplating his next steps post-graduation. However, their journey is a little more challenging due to their special needs, including conditions like autism, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy.
Challenges in Finding Employment Opportunities
Julia Malcolm, a teacher in the school’s Lighthouse programme, highlighted the difficulty these students face in transitioning from school to the workforce. Finding places for them to gain work experience or volunteer opportunities is a significant challenge. Despite their willingness to learn and contribute, the lack of suitable opportunities poses a barrier to their future prospects.
Call for Local Employers’ Support
Malcolm is reaching out to local employers to offer work experience for students like Hamish and Jonty. With the support of a learning assistant, these students can thrive in a work environment if given the chance. Empathy, creativity, and a willingness to invest extra time are qualities Malcolm believes employers need to include these students in the workplace successfully.
Community Support and Success Stories
The Board of Trustees at Rangiora High School stands behind the Lighthouse programme, emphasizing the value of supporting young people with special needs. With 35 students in the programme, the school aims to provide a nurturing environment for these students to learn, grow, and eventually transition into the workforce. The success stories emerging from the programme are a testament to the dedication of the staff and the crucial connection to the local community.
In conclusion, the journey from school to work is a challenging one for students with special needs, but with the support of the community and local employers, these students can overcome obstacles and thrive in the workplace. If you are an employer looking to make a difference in the lives of these young individuals, reach out to Julia Malcolm at mmj@rangiorahigh.school.nz and be a part of their success story.