Colby and his parents have wanted to find employment that could fit around his school commitments and was close to home. For Colby, an understanding employer that would provide consistency and allow him to learn his own way was important.
Learning in his own way
Colby Lake is a 17-year-old student at Pacific Lutheran College. Colby has a diagnosis of autism.
Colby is a confident young man, but sometimes he needs support and direction on how best to achieve tasks within the workplace.
Colby and his parents have wanted to find employment that could fit around his school commitments and was close to home. For Colby, an understanding employer that would provide consistency and allow him to learn his own way was important.
Jack, an Employment Consultant in Rockhampton Queensland explains how he supported Colby to find a job that was a good fit for him.
I approached a local employer to discuss the Ticket to Work initiative. The owner MaIhi's had participated in programs similar to this previously and came from a trainer and assessor background. Malhi felt confident he would be able to work with Colby effectively to ensure a good outcome for all parties. For Malhi, this was a rewarding opportunity to support someone to learn the skills required in a workplace.
I introduced Malhi and Colby to one another and Colby felt at ease in the workplace environment. A few trial shifts were first set up to ensure that both Malhi and Colby felt comfortable working with one another. Throughout the trial, I assisted Colby with facing stock and filling the drinks fridge.
