What Is SLES in the NDIS? A Simple Guide for Families and Participants

SLES (School Leaver Employment Supports) is one of the most powerful — and often misunderstood — supports available under the NDIS.

If you're supporting a teen with disability who’s about to finish school, here’s what you need to know about how SLES works, who it’s for, and how it can make a real difference in your young person’s future.

🎓 What Does SLES Stand For?

SLES stands for School Leaver Employment Supports.

It’s an NDIS-funded support designed to help young people transition from school into work — at their own pace, in a supportive environment.

SLES is usually available for up to 2 years after finishing school, and it focuses on building the skills, confidence, and work habits needed to eventually get (and keep) a job.

👩‍🎓 Who Is SLES For?

SLES is ideal for young people who:

• Are 17–22 years old

• Have recently left school or are about to

• Want to explore employment in the future, but aren’t quite job-ready

• May benefit from extra support before jumping into open employment

You don’t need to have a job lined up — and you don’t need to be ready for a traditional workplace just yet.

SLES is all about building a foundation.

💼 What Does SLES Include?

Every SLES program is different, but supports may include:

• Workplace skills (punctuality, communication, time management)

• Life skills (money handling, public transport, cooking)

• Resume building and interview prep

• Goal-setting and career exploration

• Workplace visits or job sampling

• Volunteer or supported work experience

• Confidence and self-esteem building activities

SLES can be delivered 1:1, in groups, or a mix of both — and should always be tailored to the participant’s strengths and goals.

🧡 What SLES Looks Like at Loving Life

We believe that work readiness starts with real-world skills and positive experiences. Our SLES programs are:

✅ Fun, practical, and engaging

✅ Designed to build both hard and soft skills

✅ Run in small groups with consistent, friendly mentors

✅ Flexible enough to support different learning styles

✅ Always focused on confidence first, jobs second

Whether your teen wants to become a barista, work in childcare, or just learn how to manage a weekly schedule — we’re here to guide the journey.

🤔 How Do You Access SLES?

To access SLES, you’ll need:

• An active NDIS plan

• Employment or School Leaver Employment Supports included in your plan

• A conversation with your LAC or Support Coordinator to help identify suitable providers

If you're unsure whether SLES is in your plan, talk to your planner at your next review.

Leaving school is a big step — but your teen doesn’t have to do it alone. With the right support, they can build the skills and confidence they need to take on the world.

📝 Check out our SLES program

📍 Based on the Gold Coast