What happens when you design education around people - not the other way around?
In the Bega Valley, The Disability Trust and TAFE NSW Bega have teamed up to create exactly that: an education experience that bends, flexes, and supports people with disability to thrive. The result? Confidence. Growth. And some seriously exciting employment outcomes.
It started with a conversation. The Disability Trust approached TAFE with an idea: create a pathway into work that meets people where they are.
“TAFE can sometimes feel rigid or intimidating,” explains Katrina Hergenhan, TAFE Bega’s teacher behind the program. “So we asked – how do we adapt the structure to make it welcoming, flexible and empowering for this group?”
The answer was the Certificate I in Workplace Skills and a Statement of Attainment in Personal Technology – nationally recognised training tailored specifically for people supported by The Disability Trust. Delivered part-time across 18 weeks at TAFE Bega, the program combines essential work-readiness training with real-world flexibility, gentle pacing, and individual support from both educators and TDT staff.
“We knew full-time study wouldn’t work for many of our participants,” says Leanne, from TDT’s Disability Employment Services. “So we co-designed something different – something better.”
Each student is supported to succeed on their terms. Assessments are adapted. Content is simplified but never diminished. And learning is supported with kindness, humour, and care.
“Kat is a really good teacher,” says Jack, one of the students. “She explains things so simply… but she does wear sandals too much,” they add cheekily.
And it’s working. Students are showing up, leaning in, and building the skills they need to thrive – both in the classroom and beyond. From learning how to operate digital devices, manage time, communicate in a team, or build work-readiness habits, the course delivers real, transferrable skills in a fun, inclusive environment.
But more than that, it’s helping participants believe in themselves.
“I love going to TAFE on Mondays and Wednesdays,” says Tim, who recently secured a job with ARV Caravans. “The teachers are awesome.”
Aiden, another participant, has gone on to work with Bega Valley Motors. These aren’t just job placements – they’re powerful examples of what happens when education and employment services work hand in hand to lift people up.
“It’s been beautiful to see the confidence grow,” says Corina from TDT’s Employment and Inclusion team. “We complement each other so well – TAFE builds the skills, and we support the discovery and work experiences. Together, we’re setting people up for success.”
The real magic? The connection. Students have bonded, supported one another, and formed lasting friendships. And every week, their confidence builds just a little more.
“Watching them grow week to week is phenomenal,” says Kat. “They’re proving that when we adapt our systems to meet people’s needs, everyone can thrive.”
Ready to Get Started?
The Certificate I and II in Workplace Skills are now open for enrolment at TAFE NSW Bega, reimagining learning at TAFE, with support from The Disability Trust. These nationally recognised courses are perfect for people with disability who are ready to:
- Build confidence
- Learn digital and workplace skills
- Explore employment pathways
- Gain experience through supported learning
Location: TAFE NSW Bega
Duration: 18 weeks (Mondays and Wednesdays)
Contact: Katrina.Hergenhan1@tafensw.edu.au or The Disability Trust
Let’s build a future where everyone can succeed – together.
