STepS pAThWAyS coLLege college offers unique opportunity to disability community. Like many parents of a child with a disability, Anne Nioa knows too well the challenges in finding the right pathway for her daughter Ariana as she moves into adulthood. “Come to the end of Grade 12 and the transition paths are few and far between. The options are very limited,” Anne said. A Sunshine Coast disability training college is helping to bridge this gap, offering young adults with a disability a chance to learn skills to live an independent life of their own design. STEPS Pathways College is based in Caloundra and offers an innovative, holistic approach to teaching skills like maintaining a tenancy, healthy lifestyles, staying safe in the community and getting involved in recreation activities. College manager DJ McGlynn said the flexible learning environment is a big drawcard for many young people with a disability, together with their families and carers. “We’ve designed a curriculum that is both intensive, and able to be individually-tailored to help students achieve their own goals,” DJ said. “One of our current day students started out attending one day a week, then two. He now loves it so much he wants to become a boarding student next year. “The Day Program is a great option for many young adults with a disability on the Sunshine Coast who are beginning their journey towards independence.” While day students can practice the skills they’ve learnt within the comforts of their home environment, boarding students reside on campus, in a purpose-built accommodation unit complex. Learning goes well beyond the classroom though, with trainers assisting boarding students integrate their new skills into their day to day living environment. The College, part of non-profit organisation STEPS Group Australia, is proving to make a
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SUNSHINE COAST BUSINESS AWARDS 2018
Ariana and Anne Nioa
difference, not just to the students, but also their families and home communities. Boarding student Ariana Nioa said she was inspired to study at the College after seeing her brother move out of home to attend university. “I like having fun and renting my own place. I like going out on Saturdays and I like to cook spaghetti bolognaise,” Ariana said.
ready to take on the world.” The College may be founded on the Coast, but it has bold plans for growth. “With enrolment enquiries coming from across the country, including big cities like Sydney and Melbourne, and many regional centres too, we know there’s demand for an opportunity like this,” DJ said.
Ariana is getting ready to graduate soon, and her mum Anne is proud of the huge strides she’s observed in Ariana’s education and communication.
Top five reasons to study at STepS pathways college:
“I think that the biggest changes with Ariana have been in her self-confidence,” Anne said.
• flexible learning – study as a boarding or day student
“Not only I have noticed it, but our family and all our friends have also commented that she’s been incredibly confident.
• individually-tailored program to help each student reach their goals • boost skills and confidence to make informed decisions
“She’ll take a bus, she’ll take the train home, and she won’t refer to me all the time with small decision-making.
• supportive environment
“Self-confidence has really been instilled in her in a very inclusive way and she’s brave and
• great campus location convenient to shops, the beach and transport.