Melissa supported to take first STEPS into working in ECEC through Pathways College

2021 STEPS Pathways College graduate Melissa is ready to begin her journey as a professional in the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector thanks to the specialised support she received from STEPS, a first of its kind college for young adults with disabilities and autism. 

STEPS offers innovative and intensive learning, using personalised and inclusive learning experiences to allow students to find their path in life, achieve their goals, and lead independent lives in the community.

To further her career, Melissa will move from her family home in a small town near Cairns, to live independently on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.

When she first commenced her studies, Melissa had short term goals of gaining independence, feeling confident, using public transport, and getting a job – all of which she has achieved while completing her studies.  

With a long term goal of working with children, Melissa will begin her career with a creche position in an RSL, building on work experience she completed in Cairns, as a volunteer in a long day care centre. 

She believes that the soft skills she gained while studying with STEPS, such as patience, resilience and overcoming fears, will also support her as she moves forward. Her trainer, Jason Keen, agrees. 

“The change we have seen in Melissa since she began with us two years ago is unbelievable,” he said.

“She has become so confident in who she is and all that she is capable of. I have no doubt that I’ll be getting updates on her great progress in the years to come.”

For more information about studying ECEC with STEPS, please see here.