STEPS has launched an innovative new course designed to help people build confidence and develop their communication and employability skills in just three months.
Decked Out, delivered for free through the STEPS Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program, takes a fresh, hands-on approach to work readiness by blending foundational skills with practical learning activities.
Using a custom deck of employability-themed playing cards, the course guides participants through key areas of professional development, including interview preparation, cover letter writing, and knowing what to expect on their first day in a new workplace.
Each suit in the deck represents a core learning focus, and each completed activity brings the participants closer to being Decked Out with the skills they need to succeed professionally.
STEPS CEO Cassie Stanley said that Decked Out was designed to break away from traditional classroom learning and help participants build skills they could implement immediately.
“We created Decked Out to be fun, effective and easily accessible,” Cassie said.
“It’s about helping people feel confident in themselves by giving them the practical tools and strategies they need to step into the workforce and find fulfilling work.”
Throughout the three-month course, participants build a job-ready portfolio, complete a personal journal, and take part in group activities while receiving support from experienced STEPS Trainers.
Decked Out is available to eligible participants as a standalone course from the STEPS Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program and is suitable for a wide range of people: school leavers, returning-to-work jobseekers, those looking to upskill or pursue an apprenticeship, and many more.
In addition to supporting participants, Decked Out also provides value to referrers, training partners and employers.
“If you work with people seeking employment, Decked Out is a great way to support your clients,” Cassie said.
“For employers, it’s a great way to connect with motivated, work-ready talent or even help current team members build their foundational skills.”
Decked Out is now available at select STEPS sites offering the SEE Program. Participants and referring organisations are encouraged to reach out to the STEPS SEE team for more information.
