A mini Woolworths store has opened at a Perth school to help students with disabilities learn essential life and retail skills.
The Dianella Secondary College Education Support Centre transformed one of its classrooms into a simulated Woolworths supermarket. The setup includes baskets, shelves stocked with groceries, signage, ticketing, Woolworths-branded uniforms, and two registers.
Although the store does not sell real goods, students will use fake money to purchase items. This gives them the opportunity to experience what it’s like to work in a supermarket environment.
The independent public school, which serves students with disabilities from Year 7 to Year 12, aims to provide the skills needed for students to achieve their life goals.
The mini Woolworths store will teach students skills in literacy, numeracy, and how to operate a register—helping them prepare for future employment opportunities.
Julie Allsopp, Principal of Dianella Secondary College Education Support Centre, described the initiative as an “incredible opportunity.”
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome our Mini Woolies,” Allsopp said. “This is a fantastic chance for our students to gain hands-on experience, boosting their communication, numeracy, and employability skills in exciting new ways. We can’t wait to see how this will inspire and empower everyone involved.”
Sarah Corey, General Manager of Enterprise Operations and Mini Woolies at Woolworths Group, also expressed excitement about the project.
“We hope this new space will offer a unique learning experience for young people with disabilities,” Corey said. “We’re eager to see how it helps students build confidence and achieve their personal goals.”
