Leaving school is often described as one of life’s great milestones, according to Personal Advocacy Service.
For many young people, it marks the beginning of exciting new opportunities – finding employment, pursuing further study, discovering new friendships and growing in independence.
Yet it can also be a time filled with uncertainty as familiar routines, teachers and classmates give way to the responsibilities and challenges of adult life.
The Perth Catholic disability support service has identified that for young people living with disability, this transition can present additional questions.
How can friendships be maintained once school finishes? Where can young people continue to grow in faith, connect with their community and discover opportunities to contribute their gifts? What supports are available to help ensure that life beyond the classroom is one of participation, purpose and belonging?
In recognition of these important questions, a number of Catholic organisations have come together to launch Belonging Beyond School, a new initiative designed to support Year 10 to Year 12 students with disability – and their families – as they prepare for life after graduation.
Developed by Personal Advocacy Service in collaboration with Catholic Youth Ministry, Catholic Family and Justice Support Services, Identitywa and Catholic Education Western Australia, the initiative reflects the Church’s commitment to ensuring every person is welcomed, valued and included within the wider community.
Rather than focusing solely on education or employment pathways, Belonging Beyond School takes a broader approach, encouraging families to explore how young people can continue to flourish through friendship, faith and meaningful participation in community life.
The initiative recognises that true belonging is about more than finding work or completing further study – it is about building relationships, discovering one’s God-given gifts and remaining connected to communities that nurture hope and purpose.
For many families, the years leading up to graduation naturally prompt conversations about the future. Questions about maintaining social connections, participating in parish life, joining community groups and accessing ongoing supports can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Belonging Beyond School provides a welcoming space where these conversations can begin, helping young people and their families discover the many programs, organisations and networks available beyond the school years.
Students, parents, family members and support workers will have the opportunity to meet representatives from participating organisations, ask questions and learn about services that encourage social connection, faith formation, recreation, volunteering and community participation.
Whether families are actively planning the transition from school or simply beginning to consider what lies ahead, the evening offers practical information alongside the reassurance that they do not have to navigate the journey alone.
The initiative also reflects the Catholic understanding that every person possesses inherent dignity and unique gifts bestowed by God.
Pope Francis frequently reminded the Church that inclusion is not simply about providing access but about recognising each person’s contribution to the life of the community.
Young people with disability are not merely recipients of support; they are valued members of the Body of Christ whose talents, faith and presence enrich both the Church and society.
While the end of school often signals the closing of one chapter, it is also the beginning of another. For every young person, the transition into adulthood involves discovering new opportunities, accepting greater responsibility and learning to navigate an ever-changing world.
Having supportive communities, trusted friendships and opportunities to grow in faith can make all the difference in ensuring that this transition is marked not by isolation, but by confidence, hope and belonging.
Belonging Beyond School will be held on Thursday 20 August, from 5.00pm to 7.00pm, at Champagnat Chapel, Newman College, 216 Empire Avenue in Churchlands. A light supper will be provided, accessible parking is available onsite, and while attendance is free, registrations are essential. To register, Click Here.
For further information about this event, please contact Rachel Boon via email at rachel.boon@perthcatholic.org.au