NDIS SLES Providers: School Leaver Employment Supports for a Successful Transition
The transition from school to work can be a daunting journey for many young individuals, particularly for school leavers with disabilities. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) offers School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) to aid this transition. In this article, we will delve into the roles and responsibilities of NDIS SLES providers, the eligibility criteria for accessing these supports, the various employment opportunities available, and the personalised strategies that SLES providers implement to ensure that school leavers are ready for the workforce.
At Next Gen Youth Employment, we specialise in delivering structured, real-world work experiences through our SLES programs. Our team supports young people every step of the way, offering hands-on training, mentoring, and genuine workplace engagement in inclusive environments to help you find your path.
NDIS SLES Providers: School Leaver Employment Supports for a Successful Transition
School Leaver Employment Supports Program (NDIS SLES)
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What are SLES and How Do NDIS SLES Providers Support School Leavers?
Understanding School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES)
School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) are a key initiative under the NDIS aimed at assisting young people with disabilities as they transition from school to supported employment. This program provides tailored assistance to help school leavers build the necessary skills and confidence to successfully enter the workforce.
At Next Gen Youth Employment, we focus on individual needs, ensuring each participant receives support aligned with their employment goals. Our hands-on work placement program—delivered in partnership with Enable Australia—ensures participants gain genuine workplace experience while building confidence and independence.
Role of NDIS in Employment Support for School Leavers
The NDIS plays a crucial role in facilitating access to employment support for school leavers. Through the provision of NDIS funding, eligible participants can receive support tailored to their specific needs as they navigate their transition from school.
With Next Gen Youth Employment as your SLES provider, participants benefit from a team that understands the NDIS inside out. We help families navigate the system, set meaningful goals, and deliver outcomes that matter.
Who is Eligible for SLES and How to Access NDIS Funding?
Determining Eligibility for School Leaver Employment Supports
To be eligible for SLES, individuals must be NDIS participants who have recently completed their schooling, typically within the last 12 months, and may be eligible for school leaver employment. They must meet the criteria set forth by the NDIS and demonstrate a need for support in their transition to employment.
If you’re unsure whether you or your child qualifies, Next Gen Youth Employment can help you understand eligibility and guide you through the process.
Steps to Contact the NDIS for Funding
To access NDIS funding for SLES, contact your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or the NDIS directly, as you may be eligible for SLES. Once eligibility is confirmed, participants can work with their NDIS planner to develop a tailored plan that includes SLES funding, ensuring choice and control in their employment journey.
At Next Gen, we assist families in developing an NDIS plan that aligns with employment goals, ensuring funding is directed toward practical, meaningful outcomes.
Understanding Your NDIS Plan and Employment Goals
Once individuals have their NDIS plan, it’s essential to review it carefully—particularly the sections related to employment and NDIS-funded school leaver employment supports. Working closely with a provider like Next Gen, participants can identify key employment objectives and map out a pathway to achieve them.
What Types of Employment Opportunities are Available Through SLES?
Exploring Different Employment Related Paths for School Leavers
SLES opens the door to a wide range of career paths—whether through open employment or supported roles. At Next Gen, we help participants explore industries including retail, IT, logistics, hospitality, and more.
Our unique work experience model helps school leavers identify what career paths excite them while giving them the real-world exposure needed to make informed decisions.
Work Experience: A Practical Approach to Getting Ready for Work
Work experience is a cornerstone of the SLES program. At Next Gen Youth Employment, our participants undertake structured, supported work experience 2 days per week in partnership with Enable Australia—a recognised social enterprise.
This real-world engagement builds confidence, provides tangible job skills, and gives participants a strong foundation for future employment success.
Open Employment vs. Disability Employment Services
SLES providers help participants understand the difference between open employment—working in mainstream settings—and support-focused pathways through Disability Employment Services (DES).
Our goal at Next Gen is to prepare school leavers for whichever path suits them best, with tailored support along the way.
How Can SLES Providers Individualise Supports to Achieve Your Goals?
Personalising SLES Supports to Meet Individual Needs
Next Gen Youth Employment takes a highly personalised approach. We start with a discovery process to understand each participant’s strengths, aspirations, and challenges. From there, we develop a plan that supports long-term growth and workplace readiness.
The Importance of Capacity Building in Employment Preparation
Capacity building is central to what we do. Our workshops and training focus on communication, time management, initiative, and problem-solving—essential skills that transfer across any job and help you build your confidence.
At Next Gen, we don’t just prepare young people for jobs—we prepare them for supported employment opportunities after they leave school. life beyond school.
Skills and Confidence: Key Components for Employment Readiness
With every training session, work shift, and mentoring conversation, we help participants build confidence in their abilities. Combined with technical and social skill development, this results in stronger self-belief and a higher chance of sustained employment success.
What Resources are Available for School Leavers Transitioning to Work?
Utilising NDIS Resources to Enhance Employment Opportunities
Beyond SLES, participants may access other NDIS resources including capacity-building programs, transport support, and assistive technology. At Next Gen, we guide families through the full range of options and coordinate supports where needed.
Building a Support Network for School Leavers
A strong network can make all the difference. At Next Gen, we build a community around each participant—linking them with mentors, peers, and support workers. Families are kept informed and involved every step of the way.
Training and Development Programs Offered by SLES Providers
Our training programs include SLES services designed to enhance employability.
- Job-readiness workshops are designed to ensure participants are eligible for school leaver employment supports.
- Real-world warehouse and IT experience
- Work etiquette and communication training is crucial for those seeking supported employment opportunities.
- Resume and interview prep sessions
Everything we offer is geared toward real employment results.
Why Choose Next Gen Youth Employment?
At Next Gen Youth Employment, we’re not just an NDIS SLES provider—we’re a team committed to creating real growth through real work. Our structured, hands-on approach is designed for school leavers who want to build confidence, gain independence, and enter the workforce with genuine experience and practical skills.
We deliver:
- 2-day-per-week structured work experience
- Dedicated Youth Coaches provide personalised support to help you build your confidence.
- Real workplace environments with safety and supervision
- A pathway to long-term employment success
Ready to Get Started?
📞 Contact Next Gen Youth Employment today to discuss your eligibility, explore your options, or book a free consultation.
Let’s build your future together—real workplaces, real support, real outcomes.
What is SLES and How Does it Work?
What does the NDIS SLES program offer for school leavers?
The SLES program offers a tailored approach to help school leavers with significant disabilities develop essential work skills and gain practical work experience, fostering community participation. It focuses on building capacity through various employment supports, including job readiness training, workplace experience opportunities, and ongoing guidance. By addressing the unique needs of each individual, the SLES program helps participants prepare for the workforce in a manner that is specific to their abilities and aspirations. It also provides a clear pathway to employment, ensuring that school leavers can leave school with the confidence and skills needed to find and keep a job.
How does NDIS fund SLES for eligible participants?
The NDIS funds SLES for eligible participants through a specific funding model that is included in their NDIS plan. This funding can cover a range of services and supports designed to assist individuals in their transition from school into the workforce. To access this funding, participants must meet certain eligibility criteria that are assessed during the planning process. The NDIS provides financial support for capacity building, which includes assistance with job search strategies, resume writing, and interview preparation, all aimed at enhancing the employability of school leavers with disabilities.
What are the goals of school leaver employment support (SLES)?
The primary goal of the school leaver employment support is to facilitate a smooth transition from school to employment for young individuals with disabilities. This involves helping them develop practical work skills, gain relevant work experience, and become confident in their ability to participate in the workforce, fostering social interaction among peers. The SLES program also aims to promote independence and self-sufficiency among participants, enabling them to navigate their career paths effectively. By providing targeted support and resources, the program ultimately seeks to enhance the quality of life for school leavers and encourage their integration into the workforce.
Our main goal is to help you secure a job that you enjoy and are qualified for. Once we refine your career goals, we assist in developing an individual career plan and building the necessary pre-employment skills and confidence.
Who is Eligible for School Leaver Employment Support?
What are the criteria to be eligible for SLES?
Eligibility for the SLES program is primarily determined by the individual’s age and disability status. To qualify, participants must be school leavers, generally at the school leaving age, and have a permanent disability that impacts their ability to engage in employment. Additionally, they must be eligible for the NDIS and have an approved NDIS plan that includes funding for employment supports. This ensures that the supports are individualized and tailored to meet the specific needs of each participant, facilitating their unique pathway to employment.
How to determine if you qualify for NDIS funded SLES?
To determine eligibility for NDIS funded SLES, individuals should first check their status as NDIS participants. This can be done by reviewing their NDIS plan, which outlines the supports they are entitled to. If the plan includes employment-related funding, the individual may qualify for SLES. Furthermore, potential participants should consult with their local NDIS provider or a registered NDIS provider for guidance on the eligibility criteria, as they can provide valuable insights and assistance throughout the application process.
What documentation is required for eligibility assessment?
To complete the eligibility assessment for SLES, individuals will need to provide certain documentation. This may include proof of disability, educational records, and any relevant assessments that detail their support needs, helping to individualise their service agreement. Additionally, participants may be asked to submit their NDIS plan, which outlines the supports they are entitled to receive. It is essential to gather all required documentation to ensure a smooth eligibility assessment process, as this will help demonstrate the need for SLES and facilitate access to the necessary supports.
What Types of Employment Supports are Available through SLES?
What are the key components of employment related assessments?
Employment-related assessments are a fundamental component of the SLES program, providing critical insights into the strengths and needs of school leavers. These assessments help identify the individual’s skills, interests, and potential barriers to employment. By evaluating their work skills and preferences, the SLES program can tailor support services to enhance the participant’s employability. This personalized approach ensures that the supports provided are relevant and effective in helping them transition from school into the workforce.
How does the NDIS SLES program help with work experience?
The SLES program places significant emphasis on providing work experience opportunities to participants. This practical exposure is vital for developing real-world skills and understanding workplace dynamics, which is crucial for successful open employment. The program collaborates with local businesses and organisations to create job placements that match the interests and capabilities of school leavers. Through these experiences, participants gain confidence in their abilities and learn how to navigate various work environments, ultimately enhancing their prospects for future employment.
What counseling and advice services are included in SLES?
In addition to practical work experience, the SLES program offers counseling and advice services tailored to the unique challenges faced by school leavers with disabilities. These services may include career counseling, resume writing assistance, and interview preparation, all aimed at individualising the support for each participant. By addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of job searching, the program equips participants with the tools to approach their employment journey with confidence, ensuring they have the right support. Such comprehensive support ensures that school leavers are not only prepared for the workforce but are also empowered to pursue their career aspirations actively, with the right support tailored to their individual needs.
How to we achieve this?
Our step-by-step process consists of five major components. We begin by pairing each young person with a youth coach. Next, we assess their interests, skills, and career goals to personalise their support plan effectively. Then, we arrange training and connect young people with paid work trials, traineeships, and job placements. Finally, we provide ongoing mentoring and support. Because we assist you every step of the way and break the process down into small, manageable chunks, it’s easier to move from where you are to where you want to be.
How Does SLES Facilitate the Transition from School to Employment?
What skills are developed through the SLES program?
The SLES program focuses on developing a range of essential skills that are crucial for success in the workplace. Participants engage in activities that enhance their communication skills, teamwork abilities, and problem-solving capabilities, promoting community participation. Additionally, the program emphasises the importance of time management and organisational skills, which are vital for maintaining employment. By equipping school leavers with these competencies, the SLES program plays a pivotal role in preparing them for the demands of the workforce and helping them to transition smoothly from school to employment.
How can NDIS SLES assist in finding and keeping a job?
SLES assists participants in both finding and keeping a job through a comprehensive support framework that is personalised to their unique circumstances. The program provides guidance on job search strategies, helping individuals identify suitable employment opportunities that align with their skills and interests. Furthermore, SLES offers ongoing support once a job has been secured, ensuring that participants have access to resources that can help them navigate workplace challenges. By fostering a supportive environment, SLES enhances the likelihood that school leavers will not only find employment but also maintain their roles successfully.
What is the difference between SLES and traditional employment services?
While traditional employment services often focus on placing individuals in jobs, the SLES program takes a more holistic approach by emphasising capacity building and tailored support for school leavers with disabilities. SLES is specifically designed to address the unique needs of participants transitioning from school, offering a range of services that go beyond job placement. This includes individualized assessments, skill development, and ongoing mentoring, creating a more supportive pathway to employment that acknowledges the challenges faced by school leavers with disabilities. By comparing the two, it is clear that SLES provides a more comprehensive and targeted approach to facilitating the transition into the workforce.
What Will I Learn To Make It Possible?
We will help you develop essential skills that every job seeker needs. You’ll improve your communication abilities and other important skills, receive relevant training in your area of interest to build your confidence, get assistance with resume preparation and interview skills, and find support for securing and maintaining employment.
How to Choose the Right NDIS SLES Provider?
What should you look for in a registered NDIS provider?
Choosing the right SLES provider is crucial for ensuring that school leavers receive the appropriate support tailored to their needs. When selecting a registered NDIS provider, individuals should look for experience in delivering capacity building employment assistance specifically for school leavers. It is also important to consider the provider’s reputation, qualifications of their staff, and the range of services they offer. Evaluating the provider’s previous success stories and testimonials from other participants can also provide insights into their effectiveness in facilitating the transition from school to employment.
How can you find a local SLES provider?
Finding a local SLES provider can be accomplished through several avenues. One effective method is to visit the NDIS website, where individuals can search for registered NDIS providers in their local area. Additionally, contacting local disability employment services can provide recommendations for SLES providers who specialise in supporting school leavers. Networking with other families and individuals who have gone through the program can also yield valuable referrals and insights into the best providers available in the community.
What questions to ask a potential SLES provider?
When interviewing potential SLES providers, it is important to ask targeted questions that can help assess their suitability. Inquire about their experience with school leavers and the specific strategies they employ to support participants in finding and keeping a job. Understanding their approach to employment-related assessments, work experience placements, and ongoing support can provide clarity on how they can assist in the transition process. Additionally, asking about the qualifications of their staff and their commitment to individualized support can help ensure that the chosen provider aligns with the participant’s needs and goals.
Why Next Gen Youth Employment?
We are one of the few nationally recognised NDIS providers that focus solely on School Leaver Employment Supports, which is our core service. Young people are paired with dedicated, experienced youth coaches who offer tailored, flexible one-on-one support. Our outcome-based approach revolves completely around each individual’s needs. We have strong partnerships with local employers across various industries for employment, apprenticeships, and traineeships, including retail, hospitality, manufacturing, and operations. Our highly positive track record in placing clients with these employers enables us to provide more opportunities for clients to secure paid work trials, traineeships, and job placements in the NDIS school leaver employment sector.
We Believe in You
We are all born different, and each of us is a human being deserving of happiness and fulfilment! Each of us contributes something unique to the world, making it a beautiful place to live and thrive. While we may face challenges in some areas, we all possess exceptional talents in things we love to do.
At Next Gen Youth Employment, we feel incredibly proud to witness our clients growing in confidence and happiness, acquiring new skills, and engaging in work they enjoy. Most importantly, seeing the smiles on their faces and the faces of their families motivates us to do everything we can to help our clients succeed! We believe in you!
Jayden was unsure about his career path after finishing school. With guidance and support from Next Gen Youth Employment’s SLES programme, he explored various roles, attended job trials, and developed his life and communication skills. Today, Jayden is thriving as a warehouse assistant at a local logistics company, confident in his abilities and proud of his achievements.
Meet Jayden — From Uncertainty to Success
Codetic
What now?
Take a small but important step today by completing the form on the top of the page to check your eligibility and make an enquiry. Our friendly team will get in touch, answer any questions you may have, and help you get started on your journey towards open employment! If you need further information, we can also schedule a free information session for you. If you’re unsure how to answer any of these questions, simply contact our friendly team, and we will guide you. Talk soon!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
SLES (School Leaver Employment Supports) is a support programme funded by the NDIS to help young people transition from school to employment. It’s designed to build skills, boost confidence, and increase employability.
SLES provides young people with the practical skills, knowledge, and support they need to navigate the transition from school to work. It’s a vital step towards securing long-term employment and achieving career goals.
To access SLES, you’ll need to have it included in your NDIS plan. This can be done by discussing your goals with your NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC). We can support you with this process if you’re unsure how to get started.
While both SLES and DES (Disability Employment Services) offer employment support, SLES is specifically designed for young people leaving school, whereas DES is available to people of all ages with a disability who are seeking employment.
