Patrick joined our School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) in December 2019. Patrick was a very reserved, anxious, and shy young man but always well natured and helpful to others in the group. Despite pandemic related closures and service interruption, Patrick was determined to complete his SLES program. Through SLES, Patrick was able to achieve his goals and ambitions, which he always held.
Patrick had three main goals:
Goal 1 – Get a stable job, preferably working as a teacher’s aide or with timber
Goal 2 – Live independently
Goal 3 – Save money. Have a family and travel in the future
Primarily, Patrick wanted to become a teacher’s aide. Patrick specifically recalled his struggles through school and said he wanted to be able to assist other children with challenges and make their school days more enjoyable. Patrick recalled a moment at school when he saw a younger student sitting alone on the steps looking upset. Patrick went to her and asked her if she was alright to which she replied, “I’m having trouble with my reading”. Patrick spent time with the young girl and read with her. This was the defining moment that inspired Patrick’s decision to become a teacher’s aide, as he empathised with this student and felt rewarded that he was able to help someone and brighten their day.
With assistance from the SLES Mittagong program, Patrick has completed Certificate III in Education Support and secured a casual position at Moss Vale Primary School commencing 20 February 2023.
During our time with Patrick, we have had the pleasure of seeing him grow and become a mature young man who has become an integral member of our SLES group. Other members of the group see Patrick as a mentor and look upon him as a role model. Patrick’s successes have shown other members that with commitment and hard work that their goals are achievable.
Patrick’s time in SLES has seen him successfully achieve his remaining goals including getting engaged, then married, living independently, and most recently the birth of his baby daughter followed by a christening at the end of February.
Patrick has begun to achieve his goal of travelling. Patrick has travelled within Australia and in May will be travelling overseas with his young family to Fiji.
Congratulations Patrick. It has been our pleasure watching you achieve these milestones and succeed in life.
