Embracing differences at St Marys NOVA Transition

Trainees at St Marys are a diverse group of young people who pride themselves on their teamwork, and enthusiasm to develop skills that will make them an asset to future employers. At NOVA Transition, we provide a wide range of individual and group supports to help each of our trainees find and keep a job.

Industry visits, guest speakers and work experience placements help us gain exposure to work opportunities in the local area. Having a good understanding of our employment options, and knowing our own strengths and interests, means we have more choice and control over the sort of work we do. 

We had a fantastic industry visit and lunch at Rooty Hill RSL where we were one of a few groups to tour with the Learning and Development Officer. This gave us an insight into opportunities available in the hospitality industry. 

At St Marys we’ve enjoyed guest speakers from Penrith City Council talking about traineeships and the Hospitality Group Apprenticeship Scheme (HTN). Recently we participated in Mt Druitt TAFE’s Try A Skill event, which gave trainees a glimpse into the various industries linked to traineeships, and the support available through TAFE.

Some of the many ways we develop our trainees’ employability skills include:

  • helping them to develop job-seeking and computer skills. When trainees have these skills, staff are better able to find work placements that are interesting and reflect trainees’ individual employment goals
  • supporting them to obtain photo identification and a Learner drivers licence 
  • supporting them to be able to travel independently
  • providing training and support to dress like an entry-level worker. (Many of our trainees have visited Fit for Work, a charity that supplies working wardrobes to people starting out their employment journey. Through donations, St Marys NOVA Transition is also developing our own wardrobe resources.)
  • being actively involved in training and community events to counteract bullying in the workplace
  • encouraging trainees to participate in recreational activities, which can increase confidence and motivation, enhance workplace conversation, and give access to the broader community. Upcoming visits include the local Police and Citizens Youth Club (PCYC).
  • hosting events with other NOVA Transition outlets, such as Harmony Day, allowing us to share and celebrate our cultural differences 
  • thinking of NOVA Transition as a professional environment that assists trainees to work towards employment goals
  • developing a culture of supportive ‘co-workers’ within NOVA Transition.

Our work experience program has been running for 23 years, so we have some great relationships with local businesses. Many of our trainees gain open employment through one of their work experience placements. Several past trainees have had their jobs for years.

Want to develop your employability skills with us? 
Contact NOVA Transition – SLES (School Leaver Employment Supports)
St Marys:

168 Queen Street
ST MARYS NSW 2760

Or call 1300 Ability (1300 224 548).

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