After spending the last four weeks doing a work experience at the Warrnambool Botanic Gardens, Merri River College student Declan Baulch is keen to find a part-time job in the gardening industry.
Declan, 16, was one of four students to undertake a work experience at Warrnambool City Council as part of the Victoria Municipal Association (MAV) Work Experience for People with Disabilities Project, with the Merri River School VCAL teacher Ken Radley says the program has been transformative for the young people involved.
“Our school is extremely grateful to have the opportunity to allow our students to undertake a work experience,” he said.
“After securing his spot at the Botanical Garden and meeting the team, Declan told his mother he would like to look for a part-time job.
“I believe that having a work experience increased his self-esteem and his willingness to try new things.”
And after almost completing his month of work in the gardens, Declan said he couldn’t be happier.
“I love every song. (I) planted trees, watered, blew leaves, ”he said.
“Everyone was really nice. “
Warrnambool Mayor Cr Vicki Jellie said that as one of 12 boards chosen to participate in the MAV Disability Work Experience project, Warrnambool City Council was proud to show leadership in the region.
“The aim of the project is to examine different models of work experience to see what the barriers and drivers of a successful work experience program for people with disabilities might look like,” she said. .
“From there, this knowledge can be shared with other boards, or other organizations for that matter, to help create more meaningful employment and training opportunities.
“By potentially making small changes to our workplaces and systems, we can create a more accommodating environment and harness the skills and passions of a more diverse workforce. “
John Sheely, Warrnambool City Council team leader, Trees and Botanics, said that in addition to providing a valuable experience for young people, the program allows council to explore new ways to help people with disabilities to show their abilities and strengths.
“Declan has shown great interest and is excited about the work,” he said.
“It’s a great program that allows us to refine our work and reflect on what we’re doing, allowing us to ask ourselves why we’re doing things and break the tasks down into steps.
“It was great to have Declan with us. He was part of the team and accepted this challenge really well.
The program will continue in the third term, with three other students from Merri River School to undertake a work experience on the Council.