10 key areas of learning
At STEPS Pathways College, learning is personal, practical and lifechanging. Our students build the skills and confidence they need to live independently and thrive in their community.
Our innovative curriculum is built around ten key areas of learning that reflect everyday life. From cooking a healthy meal and catching the bus to managing a budget and preparing for work, our students grow through hands-on experiences that prepare them for a brighter future.
Our approach: Learning that reflects real life
We believe that every young person with a disability and autism deserves access to transformative opportunities that help them live life on their own terms.
That’s why our learning model is holistic, supportive, and focused on the skills that matter most in day-to-day life.
Each student follows an individualised learning plan, guided by expert trainers and a supportive learning environment. STEPS Pathways College combines classroom learning with real-world experiences, giving students opportunities to practise new skills in a safe, structured and engaging way.
We focus on:
- Building confidence to independently navigate the world
- Supporting personal growth through everyday routines and milestones
- Creating community connections that foster belonging and participation
- Preparing for the future beyond graduation with skills for employment, housing, staying healthy, and more
The 10 key areas of our curriculum
Communication for everyday life
Students develop essential skills like speaking, listening and self-expression, learning to communicate clearly, confidently and respectfully in real-world scenarios.
Community connections
(including transport and road safety)
We help our students learn to explore their community independently and confidently while teaching them how to safely cross the road and use public transport.
Social skills and building relationships
Through group learning and guided interactions, students build the confidence to form friendships, interact with people in their community, and work as part of a team.
Recreational planning and participation
Students are encouraged to pursue what they enjoy, plan social and leisure activities, and get involved in recreational experiences that build confidence and joy.
Home living, household and outdoor maintenance
From cooking and cleaning to laundry and budgeting, students gain the tools to manage a household both inside and out and take pride in their living space.
Finding and maintaining a tenancy
We teach students how to apply for rental properties, understand tenancy agreements, set up utilities, and care for their home, laying the foundation for independent living.
Healthy living and personal wellbeing
We support students in developing healthy daily routines—such as nutrition, exercise, hygiene, sleep and self-care—to promote lifelong wellbeing.
Pathways to employment
With a focus on job readiness, students develop foundational professional skills and gain hands-on experience to support future employment.
Safe and respectful relationships
Students learn how to build and maintain respectful relationships, understand consent and personal boundaries, and navigate emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
Everyday technology, literacy and numeracy
Students build digital confidence and essential life skills, from using mobile phones and computers to reading, writing and navigating everyday tasks.
Why these 10 areas matter
Independence doesn’t happen overnight. It’s learned step by step, skill by skill.
That’s why our curriculum focuses on what really matters: helping young people with a disability and autism live more independently, confidently and meaningfully.
Each of the ten learning areas has been carefully chosen to reflect the challenges and opportunities students will face in everyday life, giving them essential skills to support their journeys to becoming more capable young adults.
By learning through real-world experience and individualised support, our students:
• Gain confidence in their abilities
• Discover new strengths and interests
• Develop routines and strategies that work for them
• Prepare for life beyond STEPS Pathways College – at home, in the workplace, and in the community
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Download our prospectus
Find detailed information about our curriculum, programs, the student experience, and more.
Talk to our friendly team
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