There were a few nerves and a whole lot of excitement this month as STEPS Pathways College opened up its doors to the first round of students to study at the Australian first college for independent living.

The college open day gave students the opportunity to meet their fellow students and check out their new modern campus where they will be living for 12 months while they undertake the intensive training course.

STEPS Pathways College will teach young people with a disability skills and confidence for a lifetime of independence through combined living and practical learning experiences, a model that is set to change the state of living for people with a disability in Australia.

The college is the brainchild of STEPS Managing Director Carmel Crouch who has been involved in the disability sector for 30 years and has worked with thousands of young people and their families to improve independence for people with a disability.

“This is a really proud moment for STEPS,” Ms Crouch said.

“I’m looking forward to seeing these wonderful young people graduate in a year’s time with the ability to live independently in the community,” she said.

Paul Amerena, whose son Tom is among the first group of students to enrol at the college, said he and his family have been waiting excitedly for this moment come.

“There’s never been this opportunity anywhere,” he said. “It’s just fantastic.”