The augmented Reconnect Program, delivered by Ladder is a partnership between the Department of Education and Training and Gippsland Employment Skills Training Inc. This new program offering has enabled us to reach and support more young people in the Gippsland region. 

This augmented program focuses on young people aged 17-25, providing a wrap-around holistic service to address barriers in education and employment. The program aims to assist young people to build resilience and capacities required to successfully transition into employment, education, and or training in a sustainable and rewarding way.

The augmented Reconnect program commenced in September and we are already seeing great results from our participants. Four young people have gained employment and seven young people are enrolled and completing a pre-accredited program to assist them in their education, employment and training pathways.

Last week, we celebrated these wonderful achievements with some of our program participants. We came together for lunch and Ladder staff asked the young people to reflect on their time in the program and how it has supported them in their journeys.

"It has helped me get a job and get my learners" - Jake

"It has given me purpose to leave the house. It has given me a reason to get up and ready in the morning. It has helped me prepare for applying for jobs and interviews" - Hannah

"The program has really helped me with getting to understand things and to learn how to be more independent. I would say that this program has helped me with my confidence and getting out and about in the community again. The last two years have been really tough as I couldn't continue with Holmesglen. Having this program is making my future planning a lot easier." – Cameron

We are so proud of their achievements thus far in the program and we look forward to continuing to support them to achieve their goals in the new year.