When Ray first joined the Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) program in Cessnock in October 2025, he was looking for support to improve his reading and writing. Living with a learning disability that impacts his literacy skills, Ray had faced these challenges for much of his life.
He wanted to build skills for everyday life, improve his confidence and increase his future employment opportunities. But he also had a very personal goal close to his heart: one day being able to read stories to his young daughter. It was something he had dreamed of doing for years.
Ray initially attended the program two days a week, but after seeing his own progress and realising how much he enjoyed the classes, his trainer and the learning environment, he asked to increase his attendance.
Today, Ray travels from Singleton to Cessnock three days a week to attend the SEE program, a commitment he says is absolutely worth it.
Over the past eight months, SEE Trainer Carol Williams has seen a remarkable improvement in both his reading and writing skills.
“Ray has come such a long way,” Carol said. “When he first started, he was much quieter and tended to keep to himself. Now, he is engaging with the class, talking to others, joining in, and showing so much more confidence in himself and his abilities.”
Ray said Carol's patience, understanding and encouragement have played a big role in his journey.
“Carol has helped me so much,” Ray said. “Sometimes I get frustrated or overwhelmed when I'm trying to concentrate, but she always notices when I'm struggling. She takes the time to sit with me, explain things in a way I can understand, and helps me work through it without making me feel rushed.”
Along with improving his literacy skills, Ray has also found a strong sense of community through the SEE program.
He has built friendships with classmates from different backgrounds, ages and walks of life, and enjoys the puzzles and activities that help strengthen other skills in a fun and engaging way.
“The class is fun,” Ray said. “I enjoy coming here, and I've made some really good friends.”
Carol said Ray's growing confidence has been one of the most rewarding parts of his journey.
“It has been wonderful to see Ray come out of his shell,” she said. “He is putting in the effort, showing up consistently and really embracing every opportunity to learn. The progress he has made, both in his skills and his confidence, has been incredible to watch.”
The SEE team has also supported Ray outside the classroom, including assisting him with a housing application. While his recent application was unsuccessful due to timing, Ray remains hopeful, and the team will continue supporting him as he works towards his goals.
Today, Ray can comfortably read up to five pages of a newspaper, something he never imagined he would be able to do before joining the program.
More importantly, the skills he has gained have helped him achieve the goal that inspired him to enrol in the first place.
“I wanted to be able to read stories to my daughter,” Ray said. “Now I can do that.”
Whether it's reading a story to your child, building confidence in everyday life or working towards employment goals, the SEE program helps people develop the skills they need to achieve what matters most to them.
For more information about the Skills for Education and Employment program, contact VERTO on 1300 483 786 or visit www.verto.org.au/skills-for-education-and-employment.
The Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.
