Participants in the STEPS Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program at Katherine’s Venndale Rehabilitation Centre recently took charge of a learning activity, organising and leading a practical excursion to Pine Creek as part of their training.
The excursion gave participants the chance to apply classroom skills in a real-world setting, focusing on planning, problem-solving and teamwork.
STEPS Regional Manager for Northern Territory Yvonne Coleman said that excursions like this help participants connect their learning with real-world, practical tasks and experiences.
“This gave our participants the chance to lead the excursion, make decisions on behalf of themselves and the group, and feel empowered in their learning journey,” she said.
“For many of our STEPS SEE Program learners, especially those here in recovery at Venndale, these moments of initiative can turn into major breakthroughs for their confidence. Plus, they get to share the experience with their peers and strengthen those connections, so all around it was just a great day.”
Each participant was responsible for planning an element of the day; one individual, an aspiring mechanic, suggested visiting The Shed, a local automotive museum filled with vintage vehicles and wartime memorabilia. He researched entry details, delegated tasks to his peers, and helped build a schedule that encouraged full group participation.
To complement the visit, participants added a stop at Edith River for fishing, swimming and a shared barbecue. The outdoor setting was ripe with opportunity for connection and the participants excitedly shared music, stories and a meal on Country.
The day also brought an unplanned challenge. A punctured tyre discovered during a pre-start vehicle check became a sudden practical test in resilience and groupC coordination, and the participants responded quickly, working together to problem-solve and adapt.
Throughout the excursion, participants demonstrated their growing communication skills, adaptability and initiative, all being key employability skills they’ve been building through the STEPS SEE Program.
By the end of the day, many expressed surprise at how much they had learned through practical activities and how proud they felt of themselves and each other for what they’d achieved.
The Pine Creek trip proved that learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom, but in any situation where you can apply your skills, overcome a challenge and try something new.
About the STEPS SEE Program
The STEPS Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program supports individuals who want to develop their English language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills while gaining the tools and confidence needed to pursue their goals, whether that’s earning a qualification, aiming for further study, finding employment, or making it easier to navigate their day-to-day life.
If you or someone you know could benefit from a supportive learning program at no cost to participants, STEPS is here to help.
With a brand new STEPS site in Katherine and many more across the Northern Territory and Queensland, you can apply today and start anytime.
Call our friendly team on 1300 131 965 or visit our STEPS SEE Program webpage to learn more!
