Growing up is awesome, but it can be challenging too.
For some young people, the path ahead is clear. They know what they want to do, where they want to work and how to get there. But for many, it’s not so straightforward.
Maybe, you (or someone you love) is interested in getting a job, but not sure what kind of work. Or maybe you (or your person) need/s a little more time to build confidence, independence and the skills that employers are looking for.
The good news is you don’t have to figure it out on your own.
Afford’s new Youth Employment Coaching program has been designed to support people aged 16 to 25 (new school leavers or otherwise) to take those important first steps towards employment, independence and adulthood.
With an Employment Coach by your side, you will build confidence and skills making life easier and more fun.
So, what is Youth Employment Coaching?
Our Youth Employment Coaching is a two-year program that helps young people build the skills, confidence and experience needed for future work.
Participants spend time developing practical workplace skills, exploring different industries and learning more about their own strengths and interests. And it works, says Afford’s Inclusive Employment Operations Manager Jim Win.
“School is great and the learning is excellent, but it doesn’t always include preparation for real work and life …
“This means that young people, especially those with an intellectual disability or cognitive impairment, finish school and hope to work, but they don’t know where or how to start looking. They also often lack interviewing and real-world social skills.
“This is where our program comes in. It fills that gap perfectly. And it’s powerful.”
Learning skills for work and life
Employment is about more than simply getting a job.
It’s about confidence, communication, independence and having the skills to navigate everyday life. And our Youth Employment Coaching provides all of that.
How does it work? Good question. And here’s your answer. The first program kicks off in February 2027 and will run for two years. Those who sign up will attend training for three days a week from 9am to 3pm, with a four-week break during the Christmas period. A bit like regular school or university.
For the first 18 months the course will focus on practical learning and training. The final six months will be pure skill building with hands-on work prep including work experience/s, site visits and other in-situ work activities.
Along the way, our students will develop a range of important skills including:
- Creating resumes and job applications
- Interviewing well
- Communicating with confidence
- Networking and making connections
- Simple goal setting
- How to be part of a team
- How to stay safe at work
- Literacy and numeracy for everyday situations
Program grads will have skills that can be used in both the workplace and beyond. They will also receive two Certificate 1 levels in training and qualifications. And, they may be able to transition to our Inclusive Employment Australia services if they’re keen to tap that service too.
Your Employment Coach will get to know you and help you to build your work and life skills. Happy days.
Building independence
While a job is an important goal, the benefits of the program are bigger than that.
Our students will also be supported to build independence in everyday life, whether that’s travelling on public transport, being a part of their local community, developing routines or becoming more confident in general.
These skills can make a significant difference when it comes to navigating adulthood and preparing for future employment opportunities.
That’s important because everyone deserves the opportunity to build skills, gain confidence and work towards a future that reflects their goals and interests.
Our Youth Employment Coaching is designed to help make all of that happen. And, most importantly, it will help you find the right job for you.
