On Friday, the first of its kind College, STEPS Pathways College, celebrated the graduation of another group of their students.
The College, which opened in 2017, is a lifeline to all young adults with disabilities and autism who can now access intensive and specialised learning, available both online and in person. The online availability was a particularly important feature of the College, with students Australia-wide able to have access to the College and current students able to keep consistently learning while in lockdown.
The students capped off their College experience as they dressed up and walked across the stage, proudly receiving their certificates from Andrew Wallace MP, Member for Fisher.
The experience was also beautifully summarised by one of the graduates, Kate-Lyn Mackenzie, who delivered a powerful speech about how STEPS Pathways College has changed her life.
“I’ve learned so much and I can do so much more now,” Kate-Lyn said.
“To all future students of our College, be brave, chase your dreams and never give up. You are so capable,” she concluded.
Kate-Lyn and the other graduates will be joining the growing group of STEPS Pathways College alumni, young adults with disabilities and autism who now live independent and rewarding lives in the community.
The College’s mission is to change the landscape for young adults with disabilities and autism by providing skills, support, and opportunities. This year’s graduates proudly represent the continual fulfillment of the College’s mission, with multiple students already living independently and undertaking jobs in the path to their dream careers.
John Williams, a speaker at the event, similarly summarised the breath of air that the College can provide to parents of young adults with disabilities and autism.
“Thanks to the STEPS Pathways College, we have parents here in our audience today who are able to experience a life that they never thought possible,” Mr. Williams said.
“As parents, there is nothing more important in life than ensuring your child lives a happy and rewarding life.
“STEPS Pathways College has allowed so many families a breath of relief, knowing that their children are now equipped with the skills to take on life and live it to the fullest.
“In front of us today are a group of amazingly capable graduates, all brilliant representations of what providing opportunities to young adults with disabilities and autism can do.”
The graduation was attended by many proud parents, relatives, and staffers; though the proudest person in the room was no doubt STEPS Pathways College founder, Carmel Crouch.
Ms. Crouch’s initial motivation for the College was to create a space that would drastically change the standard of living for young adults with a disability and autism.
“We’ve had the special privilege of being alongside these students in every step of their journey,” Ms. Crouch said.
“Each one of them is unique in their own way, and each have grown into amazing and capable individuals.”
“I have no doubt that we will hear about all the great things they go on to achieve in our community and it is heart-warming to know that we were a part of getting them there.”
Are you or someone you know interested in the STEPS Pathways College learning experience? Enquire now, as spaces are limited. Contact us on (07) 5458 3000.
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