Pathways to independence: Day College
Located in Caloundra on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, our Day College gives students the tools they need to live more independently.
The Day College is suited to young people living with a disability and autism who are ready to develop their everyday living skills in a safe, supportive and engaging environment without living on campus. Our curriculum blends hands-on classroom learning with real-world experiences, giving students the opportunity to practise new skills at our STEP Pathways College campus and within the local community.
Every student is encouraged to find their own path, one that reflects their strengths, passions, and personal goals. Our team is here to support them every step of the way.
How does the Day College work?
The Day College program is delivered across two years and follows a four-block learning model, with students attending three days a week.
There are two attendance options available:
Option 1: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
Option 2: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
Each student participates in a rich mix of classroom activities, community-based learning, and practical skill-building.
What do students learn?
The Day College curriculum is built around ten core learning areas that support students in developing the essential skills for life:
- Communication for everyday life
- Social skills and building relationships
- Home living, horticulture and household management
- Healthy living and personal wellbeing
- Safe and respectful relationships
- Recreational planning and participation
- Finding and maintaining a tenancy
- Pathways to employment
- Everyday technology, literacy and numeracy
- Community connections (including transport and road safety)
Elective streams: Choose your focus
In addition to the core curriculum, students can personalise their learning experience to suit their professional goals and interests by choosing one or both of our electives:
Café Skills (Front of House)
Students gain hands-on experience in hospitality by developing barista, customer service, and point-of-sale skills. They learn how to take orders, serve customers, and manage transactions in a supportive environment through the on-site STEPS Café on George. It’s a great stepping stone to future employment or volunteering opportunities in hospitality.
Cookery Skills (Back of House)
Students learn how to work safely and efficiently in a professional kitchen setting. They practise food safety and hygiene, prepare a range of fresh ingredients, and develop confidence using kitchen tools and equipment. Teamwork, timing, and clear communication are key areas of focus, giving students a strong foundation for both home cooking and future employment.
Creating a brighter future
At STEPS Pathways College, we believe in every young person with a disability and autism’s potential to grow, learn, and live a more independent life. Through our Day College program, students gain the everyday skills they need to thrive at home, in relationships, in their communities, and in the workforce. Each student has their own unique strengths and goals, and we want to help them live their life to the fullest. Many of our graduates have gone on to secure employment, move into supported or independent accommodation, and build social connections that enrich their lives. We’re proud to walk alongside our students and their families as they take the next steps towards their brighter future.
Take the next step
If you’re interested in enrolling or simply learning more about what STEPS Pathways College has to offer, we would love to talk.
Learn about our Boarding College
Our Boarding College is a leading model for independent living education and a first of its kind in Australia. Students boarding at STEPS Pathways College fast-track their journey to independence through a holistic experience that combines simulated independent living in a safe and supported environment with class and community-based learning.
