Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery today opened Western Australia’s first ‘Mini Woolies’ program at Cannington Community Education Support Centre.
Set up in a renovated school shed, the innovative program simulates a real Woolworths supermarket complete with working cash registers, shelving, grocery items and uniforms.
Woolworths and Fujitsu Australia Ltd donated the cash registers and items to fit out the shop.
The learning and educational tool will support students with disabilities by providing hands-on experience in money handling, store receipts and bagging of items.
Students from Years 10 to 12 will develop their numeracy, literacy, communication and problem-solving skills in a real-world setting, and learn workplace finance and business skills.
The positive experiences and skills the students will learn at the ‘Mini Woolies’ will support their preparation for entering a workplace.
As stated by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
“WA’s first ‘Mini Woolies’ will offer great learning opportunities for students with disabilities to get hands-on experience working in a retail environment.
“It’s a fantastic initiative, and I am keen to see the outcomes for students at Cannington Community Education Support Centre.
“Participants will build on the numeracy, literacy and communication skills that they’ve learnt in class and get a head-start for their future employment.
“Programs like this ensure all students get the chance to learn and develop practical life skills that they can take with them when they leave school.”
