About the program
The I Am Ready Program engages young people with learning barriers or disability to develop their skills and knowledge in moving towards employment and further education and training. Over a series of workshops, the program aims to help students build confidence, raise career aspirations and develop employability skills.
As well as classroom learning, participants will also undertake a resume writing workshop, a workplace tour at a local business, buy interview clothes (supplied by the program), and attend a mock interview with a local employer. All of the I Am Ready workshops are designed to help students become job-ready. There is also an opportunity for participants to undertake work experience after completing the workshops.
This program was developed by the I Am Ready Partnership, which comprises the three Gippsland LLEN’s (South Gippsland Bass Coast, Baw Baw Latrobe, and Gippsland East) as well as the National Disability Coordination Officer Region 17 Program. Since 2019, approximately 100 students from over 40 schools in 6 local government areas from across Gippsland have participated in the program.
Workshops
- Communication
- Technology
- Teamwork
- Problem Solving
- Initiative & Enterprise
- Self-management
- Industry Workplace Tour
- Dress for Success
- Mock Interviews
- Resume Writing
I Am Ready Evaluation Report 2020
In 2021, the I Am Ready Partnership, and Federation University Gippsland’s Collaborative Evaluation Unit (CEU) launched and published research on the I Am Ready Program. The report details the impact of the program and provides detailed recommendations for the future.
Highlights from the program
Application
Who Can Apply?
Secondary school students in South Gippsland and Bass Coast
The program is promoted to schools and intake will commence in Term one. Students can apply to the program through their school.
Employers
Employers are an essential part of the I Am ready program in providing opportunities for young people to learn about the real world of work. Exposing students to the workplace, providing career guidance and work experience opportunities are vital in young people’s transition after finishing school.