By Romy Stephens
Yarra Ranges Special Developmental School (YRSDS) has been working with a local business to keep important practical activities running during Covid-19 lockdowns.
The school typically offers a senior elective program to students in Year 10, 11 and 12, where students can access community service.
One elective class saw students head to Yarra Valley Gourmet Foods to package and label produce. But when coronavirus put excursions on hold, the school was forced to explore alternative options.
YRSDS senior teacher Emma Borland said that when she approached Yarra Valley Gourmet Foods for help, they were more than willing to help.
“I contacted Jacqui at Yarra Valley Gourmet Foods and asked her would it be possible to run the program from the school?” Ms Borland said.
“I would collect all of the flat pack boxes, the jars, all of the resources we needed and then have the work completed and delivered back to Jacqui. She thought it was a brilliant idea.
“The students loved it, we found a suitable location in the school and we set it up in a virtual work environment which was the staff room.”
Yarra Valley Gourmet Foods owner Jacqui Harvey said it was great to continue supporting the school through Covid-19.
She said the students had been a vital part of the business for almost a decade.
“We’ve had the kids since about 2012. We get a different crew every semester and it’s been so beneficial for my staff as well as them,” she said.
“They are a joy to have around. Since the original lockdown we’ve missed them dreadfully, just getting boxes done but also having them around to make us laugh.”
Ms Borland said relocating the program to the school meant more students were able to access it.
“It was a pivotal highlight for the students to participate in this program at school because it enabled all the students to participate and additional students who wouldn’t ordinarily undertake that program,” she said.
She added the program was extremely beneficial for students, teaching them numerous important workplace skills.
“It’s a real work activity…It increases their communication skills, their team working skills, their personal development,” Ms Borland said.
“It prepares them for working on-site. We teach them about the appropriate attire, the appropriate footwear, occupational health and safety protocols.”
With all students now working remotely due to Covid-19, the elective has been temporarily put on hold.
Ms Borland said she was exploring ways to potentially get students packing from home and the elective was set to recommence when students returned to school.
