Caption: Sam Clough joined the Makeables team after completing work experience last year
Students at six local schools received a taste of life after graduation, thanks to a work experience program at Multicap’s production and distribution warehouses.
Senior students from Redlands District Special School, Bayside Special Developmental School, and Seton College spent one day a week at Makeables Tingalpa getting on the job work experience.
While students from Logan, Sunnybank and Goodna special schools gained work experience at Makeables Rocklea.
Redlands District Special School Principal Andrew Thompson said the work experience gave students employment opportunities at a workplace that is supportive and able to meet their individual needs.
“It gives our students a sense of purpose when they join in with the other Makeables employees and feel part of the team,” Mr Thompson said. “Two out of our three students signed up for employment with Makeables for 2022.”
Makeables Tingalpa Warehouse and Logistics Manager Donna Holden said students learnt assembly, packing, production line and finishing as part of the program.
“It’s a great opportunity for us and the students. We can look for potential employees and the students get to experience a real work situation and decide if this is a job they’d be interested in once they finish school,” Donna said.
“It also gives our supported employees the opportunity to teach and interact with the students, adding to their responsibility and skills.”
Donna said separate production lines were established for the students to gain confidence and experience.
“The students really enjoy it and look forward to coming each week,” Donna said. ‘We’re always hopeful the students apply for work as we have the opportunities here for them.”
Makeables Rocklea’s Mark Quill said a number of students have gained employment from the program.
“It’s an exciting and great opportunity for these students and it’s always a pleasure to support them during their time here,” he said.