Celebrating independence with Our Metro Journeys

In June, Melbourne Polytechnic’s Work Education students took centre stage at Our Metro Journeys. Held at the Preston conference centre, the event brought together students, staff and guests to share stories and experiences shaped by their involvement in Metro Trains’ Community Education Program. 

The Community Education Program operates across metropolitan Melbourne, to promote safe travel and help people become more confident using public transport. For participants with intellectual disabilities, autism or cognitive impairments, these skills can be transformative – opening new pathways to work, education and community life. 

The morning featured a mix of presentations, with Work Education students showcasing their talents across theatre, multimedia and hospitality. From greeting guests and preparing the food to leading creative performances, students were involved in every aspect of the day. 

The event opened with a student-led Acknowledgment of Country, followed by a moving series of reflections on the impact of the Community Education Program. 

Student Lukas Duffy explained how Metro’s Community Educator Dylan Lloyd taught him to use the PTV journey planner, a skill he relied on to travel to work placement at Amaze, which required him to take a bus and a train each morning. 

Lukas, who aspires to be an actor, also shared how he was worried he would need to turn down a theatre role, because it was on the other side of the city. Thanks to the skills he gained through the Metro program, Lukas was able to navigate the journey and now travels independently to rehearsals every Saturday. 

Explaining how the Work Education program has helped him find a sense of belonging, Lukas said, “Melbourne Polytechnic is just like Metro Trains. No matter what line you take, it’s always there for you.” 

Guest speaker Meagan Wilson, Director of Vocational Education and Training, highlighted the importance of accessible education and empowering students through real-world learning. This message was echoed by students throughout the day in various forms, from storytelling and visual art to song and film. 

One standout moment featured an original song about Southern Cross Station performed by student Sherwin Sivanathan, backed by a live band with trumpet and vocals. Guests also explored a gallery of student artwork, with postcards of selected pieces available to take home.  

Before lunch, student Ridham Madan unveiled a vibrant, imaginative artwork he had painted, inspired by his Metro journeys. The painting featured a cartoon train wearing a hat, filled with surprises from aliens to a horse. 

A student-produced short film introduced ‘Metro Man,’ a superhero guide who helped students navigate real-life travel scenarios. The morning also included a Q&A with representatives from the Disability Employment Network (DEN), who shared valuable advice around career pathways and the importance of enabling people with invisible disabilities to navigate public transport. 

The day concluded with a spirited group performance led by the students, featuring an original Metro-themed song and choreographed dance moves that had the whole room joining in.

Group performance by Work Education students

Our Metro Journeys was a powerful example of how creative, inclusive learning supported by strong community partnerships can help students build real-world skills, confidence and connection.