STEPS Pathways College has won the title of ‘Fisher Education Provider of the Year’ at the 2024 Fisher Community Awards, along with their 11-year-old ‘Young Ambassador’ Nate Nelson, who was honoured as the ‘Fisher Student of the Year.’
The awards ceremony, which was held on Tuesday 3 September at the Caloundra Power Boat Club, honoured notable individuals and organisations in the Fisher area who are making notable contributions to the Sunshine Coast community.
Stephanie Patey, Executive Principal of STEPS Pathways College & STEPS Social Business, said the STEPS Pathways College is passionate about changing lives and redefining the possibilities of young people with disabilities and autism.
“We empower our students to develop the skills they need for a life of independence,” Ms Patey said.
“All of our teaching is delivered through the lens of real-world experiences and innovative, hands-on lessons. It’s designed to be holistic and self-empowering for our students, so they can live as independent and confident members of their community,” she said.
Nate Nelson, who was recently named STEPS Group’s first ever ‘Young Ambassador’, was recognised at the Fisher Community Awards for his dedication to not-for-profit causes like STEPS Pathways College and his community-focused endeavours.
“It’s so heartwarming to see everyone in the STEPS community recognised, from our staff and students to our volunteers and advocates like Nate,” Ms Patey said.
“Watching our students learn, grow and graduate, ready to begin their new lives as independent young adults, makes everyone in our organisation feel so incredibly proud.”
Ms Patey also took the opportunity to celebrate the STEPS Pathways College team, thanking them for their hard work.
“Every day they arrive on shift, they are making small but profound differences in the lives of these young people, and we couldn’t have won this award without their incredible efforts and dedication,” she said.
The Fisher Community Awards have been hosting annual events since 2018, recognising the people who live and work in Fisher and make a difference in business, education, the community and the environment.
About STEPS Pathways College:
As the first and only boarding college for people with disabilities and autism in Australia, STEPS is leading the change to create a brighter future for our students and all young people with disabilities and autism throughout the country.
At STEPS Pathways College, students learn independent living skills through a combination of classroom and community-based training, as well as everyday life skills learned on the College campus, accommodations, and facilities that reflect true independent living.
