Working together towards a common vision, the Royal Children’s Hospital and Holmesglen Institute have created an enriching pathway to employment for young people with disability.

Australia’s first Integrated Practical Placement Program is an innovative model combining industry, education and support services. Students enthusiastically perform roles that fulfil a business need and contribute to the hospital’s daily operations. Students undertake three nine-week rotations across different departments within the hospital with formal training also taking place each day. Where possible, participants are supported to transition into paid employment.

Piloted in 2018, the program exemplifies how barriers can be overcome through the effective partnering of education with industry. Results to date show that 80 per cent of students have gained employment, with others pursuing further studies. All staff associated with the program, and the parents of the participants, have expressed a sense of enrichment in facilitating this innovative social inclusion program.