15 July 2011

The ‘School to Work’ transition program initiative run by Phoenix Society has been recognised with the 2011 Western Futures School & Business Award for ‘Outstanding Contribution to Disability Education.’

Western Futures is a community based not for profit organisation located in the Western Adelaide region whose aim is to assist young people aged 13 – 19 to achieve a successful transition through school as well as from school to further education, training or employment.

Phoenix Society Chief Executive Officer, Ian Terry said “Our program continues to deliver outstanding outcomes in preparing a pathway for young people with disabilities to transition from school into employment.”

“Since 2007, over 1300 students with disabilities have been engaged in the program of which over 10% (140) have gained employment with Phoenix and in some cases progressed into open employment.”

“Securing funding is our biggest challenge to ensure that we can continue to apply the necessary resources for the on-going development of the program. We have schools eager to become involved but we are unable to increase the level of financial commitment without compromising the training and support that is required across other areas of our organisation.” 

Phoenix Society was nominated by the Grove Education Centre which is one of the schools in the Western Adelaide region participating in the successful program.

While in the program, students gain learning skills such as time management, staying on task, communication, developing positive relationships.