Deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) students face distinct communication and situational challenges that can hinder their access to careers education and limit their prospects in the workplace. Deaf Children Australia (DCA) is actively addressing these issues through its Work Experience Project.

This initiative strives to break down communication barriers with a focus on equipping teachers, career practitioners, and host employers to provide more effective support for DHH students in their pursuit of work experience opportunities.

The project aims to:

• Enhance DHH student engagement with careers education by supporting skills development for teachers and career practitioners and creating practical online resources to facilitate DHH students’ participation in work experience planning and execution.
• Increase employment opportunities and accessibility for DHH students by increasing awareness and understanding of the unique needs of DHH individuals among host employers, encouraging them to create inclusive and accommodating work environments

For all inquiries, pathways@deafchildren.org.au

Work Experience Pilot

As part of the Work Experience Project, DCA worked directly with schools and deaf and hard of hearing students to trial resources and identify specific needs and barriers to successful work experience placements.

The pilot contributed to the development of eLearning and online resources to help teachers and careers professionals support deaf and hard of hearing students access work experience, student resources, and Deaf Awareness Training (DAT) designed to encourage deaf-aware workplaces and organisations.

Applications to participate in the pilot phase of the project are now closed. We thank everyone who participated and value their contributions.