Life after school can be an exciting and even daunting time for teenagers, with the amount of choice presented to them becoming almost overwhelming.
However, the future is bright for Summer, who has built meaningful friendships and developed great life skills through her participation in Minda’s MyPathway to Day Options program this year.
In 2023, Minda expanded its services to offer the MyPathway to Day Options program, which gives high school leavers a bit-sized taste of the regular MyPath Day Options program.
The 20-week program provided students with an opportunity to take part in skill-based workshops, such as seasonal gardening, cooking, ICT, creative arts, music, leisure and recreation.
Summer’s grandfather, Dean, said participating in the program has been a positive experience for the teenager, who showcases a high-level of excitement when she attends her Saturday sessions.
“There is a strong level of excitement when she attends her three-hour session. When we are driving there, you can tell by her body language that she is looking forward to the day ahead."
“Summer is highly engaged in whatever she participates in. She has tried a wide range of programs, such as cooking, painting, pottery and music.”
Participating in programs that are engaging and enjoyable brings Summer joy, but the development of key life skills and building meaningful friendships is just as important for the teenager.
“Summer is participating in activities that she thoroughly enjoys and in an environment that is great for learning. She is also able to do this among peers who are on the same journey,” Dean said.
Transitioning out of the school environment can be daunting, but Dean said the many supportive staff members at Minda made the decision to enroll in the program an easy one.
“All of the staff that we have spoken with over the journey have been fantastic. They have incredibly easy to deal with and are very approachable,” Dean said.
“Summer is non-verbal and has some physical limitations, so it has been great to see staff provide quality one-on-one support and make participation in programs possible.”
Dean explained that Summer’s positive experience with the MyPathway to Day Options program will result in the teenager participating in Day Options programs next year.
“The program has been a valuable transition pathway for Summer. Getting a taste this year gives us confidence that the transition to Day Options will be seamless,” Dean said.
The 2024 MyPathway to Day Options program is currently running until 21 December 2024, with expressions of interest now open.
If you have any questions about the program, please email Senior Manager, Community and Lifestyle Services Daniel Smith on Daniel.Smith@minda.asn.au, and Client Service Manager, Community Supports Anthony Garzo on Anthony.Garzo@minda.asn.au