Thriving in the Right Environment
Steph Woods had lost a lot of confidence during her time at her bricks and mortar school.
“I was very withdrawn. I felt like I couldn’t talk to anyone. I didn’t really have any friends. I started a part-time enrolment at VSV in 2021. My science teacher at my mainstream school had a big accent (which made it extremely difficult to hear as I’m Hard of Hearing) and the science lab was a nightmare for wheelchairs to (navigate). After a year of being at VSV part-time and grappling with my past school over accessibility issues, I finally moved to VSV fully in 2022.”
In speaking with Steph, she articulates her experiences with a wisdom and perspective beyond her 17 years. Reflecting on her educational journey, she speaks openly about the confidence she has gained from learning in an environment that recognises and supports her individual needs. Listening to her, it is difficult not to be moved by the quiet assurance with which she describes her growth.
Once lacking confidence in mathematics, Steph has since challenged herself to study General Mathematics at VCE level—a milestone that reflects not only academic progress, but a renewed belief in her own capabilities.
“I wanted to quit. I missed two years of maths because I couldn’t understand my teachers. (At VSV) the difference is amazing. I can be involved and learn without spending half of my energy just trying to understand things.”
Steph has embraced technology not simply as a learning tool, but as a means of independence. The adjustments and assistive technologies available to her have enabled her to engage with her studies in ways that build her confidence and support her ambitions. With support from VSV’s Wellbeing and Inclusion team, including Conor Hickey, Steph met with an Independent Learning and CAS Calculator specialist to explore technology that could support her learning. The revolutionary idea from her carer to screencast the TI-Nspire™ CX CAS Student Software to the tablet where it can be magnified opened the door to studying mathematics in a way that was accessible to her, making a subject she once lacked confidence in both achievable and rewarding. Conor says:
“It’s an absolute privilege to work as a part of Steph’s Student Support Group. As a team, we are constantly troubleshooting with outside supports like the Visiting Teacher Service, Statewide Vision Resource Centre and Allied Health professionals to ensure that education remains accessible no matter the challenge. There is a wide variety of assistive technology available and it’s always wonderful when a tool opens a door to learning opportunities that might otherwise have appeared closed to some.”
Today, Steph’s learning environment is tailored to support her independence, with multiple screens, magnification software, a large-key keyboard, a touchscreen, and a height-adjustable desk. Together, these adjustments remove barriers, allowing Steph to focus on what matters most: learning.
For Steph, these supports are not about lowering expectations, they are about creating equitable opportunities to learn, achieve and pursue her goals. That perspective is one she hopes others will embrace. Steph believes every young person deserves the opportunity to recognise their potential and make the most of the supports available to them, whatever their circumstances.
“Everyone experiences something in life that sets them back. Whatever life throws at you, you can rise above it, use it as bricks for your fortress, or as a sword for your conquests. After all, your story is my story, and my story is your story.”
Behind these practical supports is something equally important—the steadfast advocacy of her mother, Kylie, and Steph’s own determination to pursue her aspirations. Together, they have championed the belief that with the right support, barriers need not define what is possible.
In a special bulletin to our community, we recently shared Steph’s outstanding academic achievement in Legal Studies units 3 & 4 that she undertook as a Year 11 student, and the subsequent recognition of receiving a Victorian Premier’s VCE Award. While her achievements are a testament to her own hard work, determination and perseverance, Steph is quick to acknowledge the people whose encouragement and support helped her along the way.
“One of my biggest supports is my mum. She’s a legal studies teacher, so she helped me consolidate my knowledge. Every night we discussed the content, and she really fostered my love of the law. Having those conversations with her made me feel that excitement of the Constitution and learn how everyday people can reform the law.”
Law and speaking out for minority communities have captured Steph’s heart:
“I’m looking forward to specialising in human rights law. I am passionate about the disability community and hope to assist them in navigating the legal system by advocating for their rights.”
Achieving a perfect study score in Legal Studies is a testament to Steph’s commitment and talent, but it is only one chapter in her story. Whether her future leads her into the profession or into teaching the next generation, Steph brings with her an exceptional combination of intellect, empathy and purpose that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.
Steph hopes sharing her personal experience with the VSV community might help others somehow:
“Remember to be kind, you don’t know what someone is going through until they share a chapter of their own story. Most disabilities are invisible.”
