STEPS Pathway College has celebrated an important milestone with another group of its students graduating last week.
The college, which opened in 2017, is a lifeline to all young adults with disabilities and autism who can now access intensive and specialised learning, available both online and in person.
The online availability was a particularly important feature of the college, with students Australia-wide able to have access and current students able to keep consistently learning while in lockdown.
The students capped off their college experience as they dressed up and walked across the stage, proudly receiving their certificates from Andrew Wallace MP, Member for Fisher.
Graduate Kate-Lyn Mackenzie delivered a powerful speech about how STEPS Pathways College changing her life.
“I’ve learned so much and I can do so much more now,” Mackenzie said.
“To all future students of our College, be brave, chase your dreams and never give up. You are so capable.”
The college’s mission is to change the landscape for young adults with disabilities and autism by providing skills, support, and opportunities.
This year’s graduates proudly represent the continual fulfilment of its mission, with multiple students already living independently and undertaking jobs in the path to their dream careers.
STEPS Pathways College founder Carmel Crouch said her initial motivation for the college was to create a space that would drastically change the standard of living for young adults with a disability and autism.
“We’ve had the special privilege of being alongside these students in every step of their journey,” Crouch said.
“Each one of them is unique in their own way, and each have grown into amazing and capable individuals. I have no doubt that we will hear about all the great things they go on to achieve in our community and it is heart-warming to know that we were a part of getting them there.”