Training and Employment Centre

As part of our emphasis on successful transitioning into life after school Clifford Park Special School has a long held dream to build a facility which will be known as the Training and Employment Centre. Once constructed the building would house facilities for a mechanics program, an extensive recycling program, and a coffee and collectables shop.  The centre would allow young people to learn the skills required in specific occupations to increase their employability in the Toowoomba community as well as accessing employment opportunities through business enterprises within the centre itself.  The dream is for the school to work with community groups to jointly use the facility and provide opportunities for young people with disabilities.                                                                                              

The Training and Employment Centre will cost approximately $500 000 to construct.  The benefits include:

a)     the gaining of skills to operate equipment and tools required in the automotive industry including dismantling engines, car body work, modifying and rebuilding engines, and general maintenance and service of vehicles;

b)     learning the skills related to hospitality including barista skills, front shop service, and cooking skills;

c)    learning the skills related to the recycling facility while engaging in environmental appreciation;

d)     understanding business enterprise including money management, and working as a team; 

e)    engaging in appropriate workplace health and safety practices;

f)     learning the value of a strong work ethic;

g)     feeling safe, and included in a workplace environment which will lead to improved self -esteem and self-worth.

h)    gaining employability skills to work within our Toowoomba region. 

The school and our community need to raise $150 000 to initialise this project. Your support to make this dream happen would be much appreciated.

THE SCHOOL: 
Clifford Park Special School is a state high school that supports young people with disabilities from the Toowoomba region.  

All of our students have been diagnosed with an Intellectual Disability, with a significant number having been diagnosed with multiple disabilities such as Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Physical Impairment, Hearing Impairment, Visual Impairment and Mental Health concerns.  All of the students enrolled at the school require high levels of support with their educational programs. Their complex disabilities often have the impact of limiting opportunities for life after school.

The aim of Clifford Park Special School is to provide students with skills and knowledges required for their post-school life. The PATH (Planning for Alternate Tomorrows with Hope) program leads our senior schooling program and allows students to choose, engage and work towards their personal dreams of a meaningful life after school.  Our overarching belief is for the community to engage with and value people with disabilities so that they can lead fulfilling lives.