The transition from high school to a young adult environment can be an exciting experience, with an abundance of choice presented to school leavers.
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.
Students who took part in last year’s program, which reached capacity, were able to build strong and meaningful friendships, as well as develop a new range of skills.
Elke was one of the many students who successfully transitioned to Day Options. Her mother, Carly, said that she was grateful that she “stumbled across” the program.
“It was perfect timing. I stumbled across Minda during an expo and wanted to learn more about Day Options. Little did I know, the MyPathway to Day Options program was about to start,” Carly said.
"We are so happy with how everything has gone so far. Staff are so accessible and approachable, which makes asking questions incredibly easy."
The discovery of the program was “perfect timing’ for the family, resulting in the start of an exciting journey.
“We were ecstatic when we heard about the program. You can be overwhelmed with the choices that are available, but we are certain that we have made the right choice,” Carly said.
“The program did a great job in preparing us with what to expect from Day Options. The staff were incredibly supportive and friendly, and the different activities were fun and engaging.”
Since transitioning to Day Options, Elke has participated in a number of programs, such as pottery, cooking and the Our Environment program.
“Elke is genuinely excited to attend the programs. She has tried a few programs since starting Day Options and she is quickly finding what she enjoys the most,” Carly said.
“We are so happy with how everything has gone so far. Staff are so accessible and approachable, which makes asking questions incredibly easy.”
Another graduate of last year’s MyPathway to Day Options program is Zoe, who has since made meaningful friendships and developed important life skills.
Transitioning out of a school environment can be daunting, but Zoe’s mother, Jackie, said the many supportive staff members and informative program made a “big decision” very simple.
“The program provided a great foundation for Zoe to transition into Day Options. Being able to meet staff and become familiar with the surroundings made the transition seamless,” Jackie said.
“During the program, Zoe was able to create meaningful friendships with other young adults, while taking part in a wide range of engaging programs.”
"Zoe still sees a number of the others who transitioned to Day Options. These people started the same journey together and now enjoy some of the same Day Options programs."
The connections that Zoe developed during the MyPathway to Day Options program have continued since transitioning to Day Options, allowing her to feel comfortable in her new surroundings.
“Zoe still sees a number of the others who transitioned to Day Options. These people started the same journey together and now enjoy some of the same Day Options programs,” Jackie said.
“She has enjoyed the Day Options programs that she has been involved in, with each providing a great opportunity to learn new skills and build friendships.”
The 2024 MyPathway to Day Options program will return during Term 2 of the school year, with expressions of interest now open.
If you have any questions regarding the program, please contact our friendly Client Support Unit at intake@minda.asn.au, or phone 1800 164 632.