What is Mai-Wel Academy?
Mai-Wel Academy supports young people and adults to build skills, gain confidence, and take meaningful steps into employment or further training. Our programs combine real-world experience, job readiness training, and individualised support so participants can discover their strengths and prepare for their next chapter.
At Mai-Wel Academy, participants learn by doing. Through guided work discovery experiences, volunteering, goal setting, and tailored one-to-one mentoring, we help people explore different industries and build practical skills in a safe and supportive environment.
We work closely with participants and their families, schools, employers, and local partners to support successful transitions from school to adulthood and from learning to employment.
Our Programs
Participants can access a range of real-world and personalised learning opportunities:
- RSPCA Hunter Volunteering Program (12-week program with option to continue)
- Garden and Lawn Maintenance (1:1 supported outdoor work experience)
- Return and Earn recycling program
- Hospitality and Catering experiences at Thrive Café & Catering
- Thrive Scents 1:1 skill development
- Individualised job readiness support including resume development, interview skills, travel training, and confidence building
- Support through to employment, including work trials, open employment pathways, and post-placement support
We tailor supports based on each person’s interests, goals, and readiness for work or further learning. We also partner with a number of businesses in the Hunter Region to provide training and skill development opportunities in a range of industries.
Work Discovery Program: Structured 24-week internal work experience and skill-building program
Participants complete four six-week rotations across Mai-Wel’s social enterprises and simulated workplace environments, gaining hands-on experience and work readiness skills.
Flexible start dates and individual learning plans are available.
Rotation areas include:
- Thrive Scents candle and sensory products studio
- Thrive Café at Maitland
- Business Services and simulated office environment
- Mini Woolies retail training store
This program helps participants:
- Explore different work environments
- Build confidence and capability
- Learn workplace behaviours and expectations
- Develop communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills
- Prepare for employment or further training pathways
Eligibility
Mai-Wel Academy is open to people with NDIS funding, Inclusive Employment Australia participants, and young people linked with Workforce Australia – Transition to Work (TtW). If you’re using your NDIS plan, supports can be funded through School Leaver Employment Supports, Finding and Keeping a Job, or Core Supports, among others – ask us if you’re unsure!
If you’re not currently eligible for or accessing NDIS funding, that’s okay. We also offer fee-for-service options so anyone who’s ready to build skills, confidence, and a pathway toward employment can still take part.
Mai-Wel Academy is available for people:
Still in school but looking to start developing these skills now?
Our Mai-Wel Academy Prep Program is here to support you!
Benefits of Mai-Wel Academy
Our ability to get you ready for the job market is pretty unique! Some benefits of Mai-Wel Academy:
- Structured, goal-oriented supports
- A flexible journey based on constant evaluation of your strengths and opportunities for growth – your pathway will be structured uniquely for you
- Work experience opportunities in-house and out in the community through our vast range of connections with local businesses.
We suggest people engaging Mai-Wel Academy 3 days per week to give you the best possible chance of reaching your employment goals.
Not only can we support you to trial work in different industries across the Hunter, but within Mai-Wel there are several businesses where you can get real-world experience from within our own centre. You’ll be supported, get to be part of the team, all while gaining training and skills before you graduate our program.
When you’re ready to head out and get an award-paying job (open employment) we’ve got you covered. We’ve got trained staff to support you in your job search, connections to local employers, and post-placement support, meaning we’re here for you even after landing the job.
Want to know more?
Our Team are ready to chat you through the ways we can support you to find a job, or recruit a new team member for your business!
Fill in the contact form using the button below, or contact us on (02) 4015 8400 or employmentservices@maiwel.com.au.