Woolworths has marked the opening of its 100th Mini Woolies site, located at Warringa Park School in Werribee, Victoria.
The Mini Woolies program aims to support the skills development of more than 8,100 young people with disabilities across Australia and New Zealand.
Over the past seven years, the program has expanded across every Australian state and territory from Darwin to Deloraine and has also been introduced in New Zealand.
Mini Woolies has aided many students by creating simulated supermarket environments in schools, Technical and Further Educations (TAFEs), and disability service providers. These spaces replicate real supermarket settings with stocked shelves, baskets, and registers, helping learners acquire new skills.
“Whether it’s for a maths class, cooking class or for practical experience in a retail qualification, we’ve seen the program used in so many creative ways, and it’s fantastic to see students and staff having fun and making the most of these spaces,” said Sarah Corey, General Manager of Enterprise Operations and Mini Woolies at Woolworths Group.
“None of this would be possible without the passionate support of our local Woolworths stores, whose generosity in hosting register training and setting up products on shelves is crucial to ensuring each Mini Woolies thrives.”
Parents and guests accompanied students to celebrate the official opening of the converted classroom, which includes two registers and a Mini BIG W section next to supermarket products.
“For Warringa Park School to get the opportunity to open a Mini Woolies is an incredibly exciting prospect. We are dedicated to providing authentic learning opportunities to apply skills students have learnt over their time at school to real world contexts, to prepare them as they move to their post school pathway, said Ashwini Sharma, School Principal.
“Having a space where they can learn to engage effectively with an authentic supermarket environment is critical to this growth.”
Technology-partner Fujitsu supports the Mini Woolies program by installing onsite technology for the learners.
“At Fujitsu, we know technology can make a positive difference in people’s lives. Our partnership with Woolworths allows Fujitsu to apply our in-store technology know-how to build an immersive and engaging learning space, giving young people the tools and confidence they need to succeed,” said Peter Grassi, CEO of Fujitsu Oceania.