The newest friendly face at Drake’s Murray Bridge
In 2019, it had been some years since Isaac finished school, and he and his mother agreed that they needed support to help Isaac build his confidence to enter the workforce for the first time.
Upon commencing in Disability Employment Services (DES), Isaac was connected with Consultant Darrell who assured Isaac that it is never too late to start a fulfilling career. They worked through soft skills together and spoke about opportunities to gain hands-on experience, such as the National Work Experience Program (NWEP) where Isaac could learn more about different industries.
A new working relationship between Sureway and Store Manager Randall of Drake’s Murray Bridge was looking positive for providing Isaac the ideal first workplace with a great team to support him.
Then, COVID-19 hit Australia.
While the circumstances were disheartening, Isaac remained prepared. Upon the easing of restrictions (and after one very long wait!) he was able to commence a two-week NWEP placement with Drake’s.
He spent his first week in the Groceries department and the second in Dairy where he learned different methods of shelf filling and stock rotating. He was also able to build his communication skills with co-workers and customers.
Before the second week was through, Manager Randall called Darrell at Sureway to say that Isaac had nailed his work experience placement and that he would be offering him a paid role on completion. Darrell was thrilled with how far Isaac had come in two weeks, and said that he would keep the information quiet until it was time for Randall to offer him the role.
The three gentlemen met for Isaac’s end-of-placement review and Randall delivered the good news. Darrell says that Isaac nearly jumped out of his seat in excitement! He didn’t have to wait long, with his paid employment officially commencing in late October 2020 when he was called in early to fill a shift ahead of his original November start date. Isaac now works both Night Fill and in the Dairy Department. Randall has reported that Isaac is working very well in his dual-department role, and has been getting excellent feedback from his direct Managers on his performance.
Well done to Isaac and the whole team at #FruitShedMurrayBridge!
Pictured above: Drake’s Murray Bridge Manager Randall (left) helps Isaac settle into his new role.
