The Green Thumbs Crew

More Than a Gardening Program. It's a Professional Pathway.

At Newcastle Disability Access, we believe in cultivating potential. The "Green Thumbs Crew" is a 12-week outdoor classroom designed to foster independence, confidence, and tangible employment skills. We provide a structured, supportive, and inclusive environment where individuals who enjoy hands-on work can learn and grow, empowering them with the practical abilities and professional mindset needed to succeed in the workforce.

Is the Green Thumbs Crew a good fit?

This program is ideal for any NDIS participant with an employment goal who:

✅ Enjoys being outdoors and working with nature.
✅ Likes practical, hands-on tasks and seeing results.
✅ Wants to be part of a supportive and collaborative team.
✅ Is looking to build a portfolio of real-world skills.

Diverse team from Newcastle Disability Access working together in a garden

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Designed for Individuals Ready to Grow

This program is ideal for any NDIS participant with an employment goal who:

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Wants to be part of a supportive and collaborative team.

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Enjoys the outdoors and working with nature in a hands-on environment.

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Likes practical tasks and seeing the tangible results of their hard work.

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Is looking to build a portfolio of real-world skills for their resume.

Our Unique Approach to Work-Readiness

Our curriculum is built on three core pillars to ensure a holistic learning experience.

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Safety as a Professional Skill

Participants learn WHS principles, risk assessment, and correct use of PPE. This focus on safety is a highly transferable skill valued by all employers.

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Hands-On Mastery & Technique

Team members progress from basic hand tools to competent operation of light machinery, focusing on correct technique, quality of finish, and equipment maintenance.

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Real-World Project Management

Our crew learns by doing, working on real maintenance jobs that require planning, teamwork, problem-solving, and client communication from start to finish.

Our 12-Week Journey to a New Career

Our program is a structured pathway designed to build skills and confidence progressively. We guide our participants through three distinct phases, moving from foundational knowledge to professional readiness.

Our 12-Week Program Journey:

Phase 1: Foundations (Weeks 1-4)

Safety, Teamwork & Tool Basics

In this crucial first phase, we build a safe and supportive team environment, focusing on the fundamentals that every great team member needs. The goal is to build confidence and a strong foundation for the weeks ahead.

Skills Focus:
• WHS, PPE & Safety Protocols
• Team Integration & Communication
• Basic Hand Tool & Machinery Operation
• Understanding a Worksite Plan

Phase 2: Independence (Weeks 5-8)

Project Planning & Quality Control

With core skills established, participants take on more responsibility, working on real-world projects. This phase hones their technical abilities, problem-solving skills, and understanding of quality work.

Skills Focus:
• Live Project & Site Planning
• Advanced Mowing & Edging Techniques
• Quality Control & Finishing Touches
• Basic Client Interaction

Phase 3: Work-Ready (Weeks 9-12)

Career & Employment Skills

The final phase focuses entirely on employability. We prepare participants to transition confidently into the workforce with a professional mindset and a portfolio that proves their capabilities.

Skills Focus:
• Professional Customer Service Skills
• Resume Building & Portfolio Creation
• Job Interview Practice & Techniques
• Future Career & Pathway Planning

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Building a Powerful, Well-Rounded Skill Set

A diverse team planning a garden project collaboratively

Practical & Technical Skills

✅ Light Machinery Operation & Maintenance
✅ Horticulture & Plant Science Basics
✅ Landscape Project Planning
✅ WHS, Site Assessment & Risk Management
✅ Sustainable Gardening Practices

Professional & Transferable Skills

✅ Team Communication & Collaboration
✅ Time Management & Reliability
✅ Customer Service & Positive Interaction
✅ Problem-Solving & Adaptability
✅ Building a Professional Portfolio & Resume

Invest in a Pathway to Success

Our graduates leave the "Green Thumbs Crew" with a versatile skill set and the confidence to succeed. If you have a participant who is ready to take the next step, we would love to hear from you.

"Our goal is to see participants finish with not just a resume, but with the pride and self-worth that comes from a job well done."

Contact us directly:
Tim Papas, Program Coordinator
P: 0411 739 711
E: Programs@newcastledisabilityaccess.com.au

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