Students and families at Eileen O’Connor Catholic College came together on Monday 20 April for the College’s first-ever Post-School Provider Expo – an initiative designed to open doors and spark meaningful conversations about what life after school can look like.

Held in the Parish Hall in Lewisham, the Expo brought together 26 trusted providers, giving families a clear, accessible and supportive space to explore post-school pathways and connect with the organisations that can help make them a reality.

Deborah Bestulic, Principal of Eileen O’Connor Catholic College, said the Expo reflected the College’s broader commitment to its students and families.

“Our Post-School Provider Expo is about giving our students and families the confidence to navigate life beyond school. By bringing trusted providers together in one place, we are creating meaningful opportunities for connection, conversation and support.

“At Eileen O’Connor College, we are committed to ensuring every student is known, valued and supported to achieve their full potential. This Expo is a reflection of that commitment, empowering our young people and their families to plan for the future with clarity, dignity and hope.”

Families had the opportunity to connect directly with leading organisations including the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), Services Australia, Northcott, Sunnyfield,Civic, Scope and Wesley Mission, among many others.

Across the day, providers offered information and support across a wide range of services:

  • Day programs and life skills
  • Employment services
  • Social programs and community access
  • Disability advocacy
  • Disability support workers
  • Financial information and support

Eileen O’Connor parent Nicola said the format of the Expo and the opportunity to speak face to face with providers was invaluable. 

“It was great to meet and greet with the providers and get lots of information all in the same spot,” she said. 

“It’s quite stressful when they’re leaving Year 12 because there’s so much out there but the school has been great in helping us navigate things.”

Many of the organisations attending already have strong connections with the College, having supported EOCC students through work experience programs, school visits and post-school transition initiatives over the years.

A highlight of the Expo was the presence of past students, who shared their experiences of life after school and the pathways they have taken. Their insights offered valuable, real-world perspectives for current students and families as they consider next steps.

NDIA representatives were on hand to assist with general enquiries, while specialists from Settlement Services International (SSI) provided personalised, one-on-one support. The Expo also welcomed families from younger year groups to encourage early conversations around future planning.

Since opening in 2016 as the first Sydney systemic Catholic special school, Eileen O’Connor College has been dedicated to supporting young people with mild and  moderate intellectual disability through personalised learning and a strong focus on wellbeing.