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Brooke finds her place at Timbarra Primary School
Brooke Pellissier always knew she wanted to work in a school. Having previously assisted in a school library, she loved being around books and helping others. So, when the opportunity came to find a new role, her CVGT Employment Consultant Rebecca Webbern stepped in to help make it happen.
Brooke has Down syndrome, and like many people with disability, she thrives when given the chance to do meaningful work in a supportive environment.
“I contacted all the schools in the area and shared her past experience and skill set,” says Rebecca.
One of those calls was to Aimee Maddocks, Assistant Principal at Timbarra Primary School and the response was immediate.
“Aimee said Brooke sounded like the perfect fit. She invited us to come in and meet the team.”
Connecting to inclusive employment
From the moment Brooke walked through the school gates, she was welcomed with open arms. The staff were warm and friendly, and Aimee took the time to sit down with Brooke to talk through tasks she could enjoy and succeed in.
Brooke describes her role proudly.
“I am an Education Support Officer (ESO) at Timbarra Public School. Tasks I do are administration, help in classrooms, reading with the preparatory (preps) years 1 and 2, helping in the library and food technology.”
When asked what she enjoys most, Brooke said, “Everything. Two things I really enjoy are working in the library and helping in the preps classrooms.”
“Brooke has fitted in extremely well, bringing warmth, humour and enthusiasm to the team. Colleagues appreciate her friendly nature and reliability, and it has fostered a greater sense of inclusion and teamwork across the workplace,” says Aimee.
Support when you start work and are working
To help Brooke settle in, CVGT Employment provided on-the-job support and practical tools.
“I went to school with Brooke to help her settle into the workplace,” Rebecca says. “I got her a basket to take her stickers, drink bottle and printed the school map to take around with her.”
Brooke added, “Bec supported me through the first four weeks to learn tasks and where the classrooms were. CVGT Consultants Erin and Taylah also supported me with travel training.”
Now, two terms in, Brooke is thriving at Timbarra Primary School.
The benefit of workplace diversity
Aimee shared how Brooke has become a valued part of the team.
We have noticed that her presence has encouraged everyone to be more patient, supportive and collaborative.
Aimee Maddocks
Timbarra Primary School Assistant Principal
“We love the little chats we have with Brooke about her interests and social life. She always has interesting things to tell us.
“The younger students have become reliant upon Brooke’s morning visits to their learning space; they line up eagerly to read their books to her and receive a sticker and some positive feedback for their reading skills. Her organisational skills make her an asset to our front office and library, where she undertakes a range of administrative jobs.”
Living the school’s values through inclusion
Timbarra Primary School’s decision to hire Brooke reflects its commitment to core values.
“Timbarra is a school with a strong moral purpose. Our values are – Respect, Kindness, Responsibility, Growth and Resilience. Hiring Brooke was a perfect example of us putting our school values into action! Our team of education support staff are very supportive of the teachers, students and of each other. Including Brooke into this beautiful team has been an easy decision,” Aimee adds.
Building confidence through workplace support
Aimee describes how the role of support staff and employment support mentors like Rebecca has been crucial.
“Having Rebecca come out as a supportive guide for Brooke really helped us to identify and understand any barriers or supports that we needed to address.
“The workplace assessment that took place gave us an opportunity to understand the capabilities that Brooke is working within. It also gave us a chance to throw a party at playtime when Brooke passed with flying colours!”
Brooke shared how that moment made her feel.
From left to right: Cassandra Marinopoulos (Principal), Sue Marandawela (Business Manager), Brooke, and Aimee Maddocks (Assistant Principal).
I felt valued, respected and part of the team.
Brooke
CVGT Employment Participant
Brookes advice to others looking for work
“Go through CVGT Employment. Go to bed early to get ready for work.”
And to others with disability.
“Take feedback and listen to advice given.”
Brooke’s mum, Marian, shared just how much this opportunity has meant to their family.
It has been a long road to this point but finally I think we’ve achieved a great outcome for Brooke. I appreciate all the support shown to Brooke over the past months both from Timbarra staff and CVGT Employment.
Marian
Brooke’s Mum
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Express your interest to join Inclusive Employment Australia with CVGT Employment here or call us on 132 848.
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