Learning is for Everyone

• Eyesight loss no setback for Joan
• Kelly keeps her sights set on a dream
• Disability Services an added bonus for Andrew
• Obstacles no barrier to Michelle's success
• High praise for Ryan
• Peta heralds changes for Midland TAFE campus
• Positive thinking creates new life for Steven
• Disability Liason Officer proves 'real gem' for Geraldton student

High praise for Ryan

Ryan Vagg used to believe he would never get a job. Living with epilepsy and having little confidence in his abilities, he was almost ready to give up.

However, since completing a course in commercial cookery with Pep Employment Services, Ryan’s transformation has amazed both his trainer and current employer.

"Ryan has grown from a quietly spoken teenager with a negative attitude to someone who loves his work and who receives high praise from his employer at Aristocrat Gourmet Foods," said Pep’s Training and Placement Officer.

Pep explains that Ryan first secured full-time employment with Aristocrat when on work experience. The job has worked out perfectly. Ryan spends his days preparing food, helping with the baking and working as a general storeman. He hopes eventually to move into cooking.

In addition, Aristocrat turned out to be close to where Ryan lived, which has enabled him to ride his bike to work every day. This has been an added bonus, with Ryan being unable to obtain a driver’s licence because of his epilepsy.

"I have always enjoyed cooking, and hope one day to work as a chef," Ryan said. "I do all my own cooking at home, and look forward to cooking at work also."

Ryan said he was extremely grateful for the assistance provided by Pep to find him a job. While his epilepsy is controlled by medication, he had found it difficult to find work and meet people who understood his needs.

"Pep was able to give Ryan the flexibility he needed to complete the commercial cookery course," said Danielle. "The difference in Ryan has been amazing."

Ryan’s supervisor at Aristocrat has been equally impressed with Ryan’s progress. "He has to be one of the best workers we have had. He is punctual, always the last to leave and really wants to learn."