NDIS Work Experience and Employment Support in Action

Brayden's First Step into the World of Work

Every career journey starts with a first step. For Brayden, that step came on a Wednesday morning in August, when he proudly walked into Bunnings Bellambi to begin his very first work experience - excited, nervous and ready to learn.

Brayden commenced his placement on Wednesday 20 August, attending from 9am to 3pm each week for four weeks. Supported through BCR Communities’ NDIS Work, Life & Training program, this work experience placement marked an important milestone as Brayden began building confidence, practical skills and a clearer pathway towards future employment.

From day one, the team at Bunnings Bellambi made Brayden feel welcome. One of the highlights of his first shift was being fitted out in his very own Bunnings uniform, a moment that filled him with pride. “Putting on the uniform made me feel like I really belonged,” Brayden said. “I was really happy to start.”

With guidance from his BCR Communities support worker, Leonie Way, Brayden has been learning a variety of real-world workplace skills in a busy retail environment. Using a handheld Zebra device, Brayden scans products to find aisle and bay locations so items can be returned to the correct place. He also helps customers check prices and confidently directs them to other team members when needed.

“Brayden has taken on every task with a positive attitude,” Leonie said. “This is his first experience in a workplace, and he has grown in confidence each week. Our focus is on real work experience, regular goal check-ins and building skills that support long-term employment.”

Brayden has also learned how to front-face stock, keep aisles tidy and take pride in completing tasks thoroughly. His friendly nature has quickly become a strength, with customers and staff responding warmly to his greetings and willingness to help.

“I like talking to customers and helping them find what they need,” Brayden said. “Everyone here is really kind and supportive.”

This work experience placement is part of Brayden’s broader NDIS employment support journey, helping him explore what work looks like in a real setting while building skills at his own pace. Through strong partnerships with local businesses, small-group and individualised support, and ongoing communication with Brayden’s support network, BCR Communities is helping Brayden move closer to his employment goals.

At BCR Communities, our Work, Life & Training program supports people with an NDIS plan to learn by doing - gaining confidence, developing skills and discovering what’s possible through hands-on experience in real workplaces. Brayden’s story is a great example of how the right support, at the right time, can make a lasting difference.