July has brought us another great success story from our aspirants! Working together with TAFE NSW and the Australian Unity Program, we were able to give 14 people valuable training and work experience in the aged care industry that would lead to fulfilling careers. The 10-week pre-employment program called “Launch to Work” would give aspirants a Certificate II in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care, as well as lead to employment as trainee care workers and a Certificate III.
While the primary goal was improving skills and gaining work, one of the most valuable parts for our aspirants was being able to network with employers in the industry and meet new people that were on the same pathway as them. We had some truly fun experiences along the way and are incredibly proud of everyone who participated.
Aspirants from all over NSW travelled to Port Macquarie and Sydney for multiple weeks to complete their studies. Our aspirants travelled from different parts of NSW including Casino, Coffs Harbour, Tamworth, Dubbo, Albury and Wagga Wagga meeting with our aspirants that are already located in Sydney.
The first chance participants had to meet each other was in week 4 of the program after completing initial studies at home. The team met in Sydney to complete team building activities and required in-person training for block 1. It was a chance to introduce the aspirants to their future employers, as well as make new bonds and friendships within the program. The groups had a blast in the team building activities – with the panic room being the highlight of the trip! The rest of the week focused on manual handling and Dementia awareness training. Aspirants were split into 2 groups to complete on the job experience and got a real feel for some of the duties and clients they will be working with. They then went on to study with Aboriginal Aged Care Workers for on-the-job training.
Block 1 finished up in week 6, with another trip to Sydney for the dedicated aspirants. After studying with their mentors for a week, we received nothing but fantastic feedback. All their employers and tutors had nothing but praise. As a special treat, we hosted a 3-course dinner and bowling night!
The group got together for one last time in week 9, ready to complete their last week of training at Port Macquarie TAFE. We’re proud to say that all 14 of our aspirants successfully completed the program, with 11 women going on to gain traineeships and employment within the Aged Care sector. They will commence their traineeships on the 12th of August and start paid employment with Carers across NSW. We know they’ll do a great job as they have already had the opportunity to work alongside their managers and fellow care workers – completing over 100 hours of buddy shifts. They are going into employment feeling positive and confident in their new roles with many people in the industry and here at Real Futures behind their backs.
We are so proud of what all our aspirants have achieved through this program. It’s been a big challenge for everyone, with some having major barriers to overcome to make it to the end. A huge congratulations to our mob and big good luck going forward!
