What Is SLES in the NDIS? A Simple Guide for Families and Participants
- carli215
- Jul 8, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 16
SLES, or School Leaver Employment Supports, is one of the most valuable supports available under the NDIS. It is also one of the most misunderstood.
If you are supporting a young person with disability who is finishing school, or has recently left, SLES can play a critical role in building confidence, independence, and readiness for future employment.
This guide explains what SLES is, who it is for, and what it actually looks like in practice.
What Does SLES Stand For?
SLES stands for School Leaver Employment Supports.
It is an NDIS-funded support designed to help young people transition from school into employment over time, rather than being rushed into a job before they are ready.
SLES focuses on:
Building practical life and work skills
Developing confidence and routine
Exploring interests and strengths
Preparing for future employment pathways
SLES is typically available for up to two years after leaving school, depending on individual needs and goals.
Who Is SLES For?
SLES is designed for young people who:
Are generally aged between 17 and 22
Have finished school or are about to
Want to work in the future but are not job-ready yet
Need extra time, support, or confidence before entering employment
A young person does not need to have a job lined up. They also do not need to be aiming for open employment straight away.
SLES is about building a strong foundation first.
What Does SLES Actually Include?
SLES programs vary depending on the provider and the participant’s goals, but may include support with:
Workplace readiness skills such as punctuality, communication, and teamwork
Life skills like budgeting, cooking, and using public transport
Resume development and interview preparation
Exploring interests and potential career pathways
Goal setting and planning weekly routines
Workplace visits, job sampling, or supported experiences
Building confidence, self-esteem, and independence
Supports can be delivered:
One to one
In small groups
Or through a combination of both
The most effective SLES programs are flexible and tailored, not one-size-fits-all.
What Makes SLES Different From Getting a Job?
SLES is not about forcing employment.
It is about helping young people:
Understand what work looks like
Learn how to show up consistently
Develop confidence in new environments
Build independence at their own pace
For many participants, success in SLES might look like:
Managing a weekly schedule
Travelling independently
Communicating with new people
Trying new environments without anxiety
Employment is the long-term goal, but it is not the starting point.
What SLES Looks Like at Loving Life Support Services
At Loving Life, we believe employment readiness starts with real life skills and positive experiences.
Our SLES supports focus on:
Practical, real-world learning
Small group and individual support
Consistent, trusted mentors
Flexible pacing based on the participant
Confidence first, employment second
We support young people to explore their interests, build routine, and develop skills that are transferable to any future pathway, whether that is open employment, supported work, volunteering, or further training.
There is no pressure to be “job ready” by a certain date. Progress is measured by growth, not speed.
How Do You Access SLES Funding?
To access SLES, a participant will need:
An active NDIS plan
School Leaver Employment Supports included in the plan
A conversation with their LAC or Support Coordinator
If you are unsure whether SLES is included, it is worth raising this at your next plan review or check-in.
SLES funding is separate from standard Core supports and must be specifically included.
Final Thoughts
Leaving school is a big transition, especially for young people with disability.
SLES exists to make that transition safer, calmer, and more empowering. With the right supports in place, young people can build confidence, skills, and independence that last far beyond the program itself.
If you are exploring SLES and want to understand whether it is the right fit, having a conversation early can make all the difference.
📍 Based on the Gold Coast
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