This week, Barkuma welcomes 38 young people as they commence the Transition Program 2026, joining us from a range of public, independent and catholic schools across metropolitan Adelaide.
Barkuma’s Transition Program supports young people with developmental disabilities and learning difficulties in their final years of school to prepare for life beyond education. The program focuses on building confidence, independence, employability skills and decision-making capability, supporting them as they move toward employment and meaningful participation in their community.
Over recent months, young people and their families met with Cris and Vanessa, Barkuma’s Transition Program Coordinators, to talk through their interests, strengths, goals and support needs. These conversations are a key part of ensuring the program is the right fit and that each young person begins with a clear understanding of their first step outside of the school environment.
A first week full of new beginnings
A quick visit to the training room during the first week showed young people getting stuck into activities designed to help them feel comfortable and connected. There was plenty of energy as students got to know one another, met their trainer Steve (WISE Training), and familiarised themselves with the training space that will become one of their regular learning environments for semester one.
Practical orientation was part of the experience, from finding the nearest sushi shop to locating the all-important vending machine for that afternoon pick me up, building confidence navigating a new space.
Like the first day of anything new, there was some apprehension about what to expect, but it was matched with a genuine eagerness to get involved. A sense of fun was captured when one young person picked up a guitar and played a few tunes, a moment that quickly helped set a relaxed and welcoming tone for the group.
Preparing for life beyond school
The Transition Program is designed to support young people as they move from school into adulthood. Rather than focusing on a single outcome, the program recognises that each young person’s journey is different and shaped by their interests, strengths and goals.
Through the program, young people are supported to:
- Build employability and workplace readiness skills
- Develop confidence, independence and self-advocacy
- Explore employment pathways and post-school options
- Understand workplace expectations and responsibilities
- Strengthen communication, social and life skills
The program combines group-based learning with individualised support, creating opportunities for young people to learn about themselves, try new things and make informed choices about their future.
“The start-up conversation is about getting to know each young person, we learn more about their interests and strengths, what they are good at and how the program will support them take their next steps. Those early days are about helping everyone feel comfortable, confident and ready to get started,” said Cris and Vanessa, Transition Program Coordinators.
Looking ahead
As the 2026 cohort settles into the program, the year ahead will be shaped by learning, connection and steady growth. Young people will be supported to try new things, access VET training, build confidence and develop the practical skills needed to take meaningful steps toward employment and adult life.
The journey has begun and 2026 is already shaping up to be a big year.
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