When Nat Murphy first came to VERTO, she was very shy and looking for support with her studies and her general confidence.
“When I first came to VERTO I was so shy I wasn’t even confident enough to go for my Learner Driving test. The staff at VERTO supported me through it and even came with me. They explained that I needed assistance with my reading and I passed!” said Nat.
This was just the beginning of Nat’s journey with VERTO. Starting when she was a Year 11 student at Mudgee High School, VERTO supported Nat, arranging tutoring and linking her with other support services in the community. Nat went on to complete Year 12 through the School’s Supported Learning Program.
After leaving school Nat continued with VERTO, completing a number of courses including Teacher’s Aide, Responsible Service of Alcohol/Gambling, First Aid, and Safe Food Handling.
With the support of her consultant, Nat found work with Smart Dollar in Mudgee. Nat kept up her studies, completing a Health Support Services qualification that helped her transition to Kanandah Aged Care Facility. As a Health Support Services Officer, Nat assisted in making beds, transporting residents, and feeding.
“VERTO has helped me build my confidence in approaching people. Since working and completing my courses, I went for a job by myself with Supa IGA and I got it” continued Nat.
For the last 18 months, Nat has been working at Supa IGA in Gulgong, where she has been trained to work in both the deli and grocery departments. She is a reliable and dedicated employee and IGA regularly provide her with extra shifts when staff are on leave.
Nat is constantly looking to grow her skills and has started her Certificate III in Retail with VERTO. She is on track to complete this qualification within the next 12 months and hopes it will improve her employment opportunities with her current and future employers.
