STUDENTS living with disability will get to “try-a-trade” at a new hands-on event in Beaconsfield next month.

Organised by the not-for-profit Activ Foundation, Try-a-Trade Day will gave students in year 10-13 and those re-entering the workforce with a disability a taste of different work environments, helping them shape their future.

Attendees will get a chance to try hand-on activities with industry professionals, tour the site, enjoy a potting masterclass, and gain an insight into what a career in property care entails. 

Activ Foundation CEO Michael Heath says there is no substitute for hands-on experience.

• Try-a-Trade day helps empower students and people living with disability to consider another career path.

“Our Try-a-Trade Day offers exactly that, with attendees able to test out equipment that they may not have ever seen or considered before, learn about the different ways we work, clients we serve, and chat to other supported employees about their experiences,” Mr Heath says.

“Activ’s property care social enterprise offers meaningful employment for people living with disability of varying ages.

“We have a number of employees who came straight out of school through to people who have been with us for decades and still come to work with a smile on their face.

“The beauty of working in one of Activ’s social enterprises is that every day is different.

“As one of WA’s biggest disability service providers, there are also opportunities to try a range of jobs to find what interests you most, or even upskill through Activ’s registered training organisation, Activ Pathways, who offer certificates in workplace skills, horticulture and more.” 

Try-a-Trade Day can also lead to work experience or supported employment opportunities with the Activ Foundation.

If you fancy going along make sure to wear appropriate work attire including hi-vis clothing, closed-in shoes and a hat.

Safety glasses, gloves, suncream, and ear protection will be provided as needed, and after all that labouring there will be tea, coffee, bottled water and light snacks. Sessions last 50 minutes on the hour.

Try-a-Trade Day is on Tuesday October 17 at Activ Foundation, 81 Lefroy Road Beaconsfield from 9am-2pm. It’s free but you need to register by emailing simon.cornelius@activ.asn.au or dale.ford@activ.asn.au.