{Day 93} Work Placement

Tomorrow is the end of my placement at West Care Foster Care in Melton.

While some students in my class have struggled and still struggled to find work placement, I had way too many options. In the end 9 organisations were willing to take me but it was one of my friends whom referred me to be a student at her workplace in the end.

Going in I was confident but a little nervous but coming out I am optimistic of my future. While I found that Case Management is not for me, while in my placement I was exposed to the gaps in the system, the flaws and the lack. With my passion being our indigenous culture, it wasn't long before I was seeing that most - if not all of the "Culture and Identity" folders on their system- with the exception of the 4 indigenous kids culture plans done by VACCA, were completely blank. I mean every single child has a folder for their connection to culture and identity and every single folder had nothing in it. It blew my mind that so many kids from a whole range of cultures in the system are losing who they are.

In the short time I was with the fostering service I like to think I made an impact. I created an internal folder with links to local indigenous organisations, events and activities as well as making a brochure for carers informing them of ways to keep kids connected throughout their time with them. This included significant days, medical and dental entitlements for the children as well as connecting them with indigenous community groups.

I wish I had longer at this organisation because the lack they have was significant. KESO's were no where in sight and children and families using their service have no connection to their ancestral lands and languages. All I could do was refer them but I would have loved to be a part of helping them get home.

So as I say goodbye to the wonderful staff whom have welcomed me, mentored me and were patient in allowing me to learn - I am grateful.

What a great first experience of work life I have had, as well as juggling full time study and the 6 kids. I cant believe I did it..

I'm not going to lie, some days were hard with kids needing me well after I was done with my day but every day I pushed through relying on God's strength top get me through another day. There were definitely early mornings and early nights and days I felt I had no more to give but I did it and I'm so appreciative to have some amazing kids whom helped out when I needed it, put a blanket on me when I fell asleep on the couch with all my paperwork on me or just made me a cuppa coffee when I was drowning in work late at night.