SLES: Understanding School Leaver Employment Support and Its Importance

The School Leaver Employment Support (SLES) program is a crucial initiative in Australia, helping young people—particularly those with disabilities—transition confidently from school into the workforce. SLES provides tailored, NDIS-funded supports that empower participants to build job-ready skills, gain practical experience, and pursue meaningful employment.

Next Gen Youth Employment for NDIS participants focuses on finding the right job opportunities. specialises in delivering these supports across Australia, guiding young people every step of the way. Whether it’s developing employment goals, gaining work experience, or navigating the job market, Next Gen Youth Employment is here to help.

What is SLES and How Does It Work?

What does the SLES program entail?

SLES is designed to equip school leavers who have completed Year 12—and are NDIS participants—with the practical tools needed for open employment. Through individualised plans, participants work on job readiness training, interview skills, work placements, and more.

Next Gen Youth Employment offers customised programs tailored to each young person’s strengths and aspirations, helping them build confidence and thrive in real workplace settings.

Who is eligible for SLES support?

Eligibility centres on being a recent school leaver with a disability who has NDIS funding, paving the pathway to employment. These supports are especially beneficial for young people who need extra assistance to enter the workforce.

Not sure if you or someone you care for is eligible? Next Gen Youth Employment Our consultants can help you navigate NDIS access and develop a clear plan for employment success.

What are the goals of the SLES program?

The main goals include:

• Supporting a smooth transition from school to employment

• Increasing employability

• Promoting independence is essential in helping NDIS participants overcome barriers to employment.

With the expert guidance of a consultant, you can find the right job for your skills and interests. Next Gen Youth Employment, participants receive hands-on support tailored to their personal career goals, while employers benefit from inclusive hiring practices that enrich their teams.

What is the Difference Between SLES and DES?

How do SLES and DES differ in terms of support?

SLES is targeted towards young school leavers starting their employment journey, offering developmental, skill-based support. DES (Disability Employment Services), by contrast, serves a broader age group and may focus more on job placement for those already experienced in the workforce.

Next Gen Youth Employment focuses on SLES because early intervention is key. Their programs are built specifically for young people transitioning from school life, not just anyone looking for a job.

What is the role of SLES funding compared to DES funding?

SLES funding, through the NDIS, covers training, work experience, and ongoing support tailored for school leavers. DES funding, managed differently, often serves as a next step once a participant is ready for employment.

If you’re unsure which service best suits your situation, the team at Next Gen Youth Employment is happy to guide you.

Who qualifies for DES versus SLES?

SLES is for NDIS-eligible school leavers; DES serves a wider range of job seekers with disabilities, helping them find the right job. Knowing which program fits your needs can be complex—Next Gen Youth Employment offers free consultations to help families and carers make informed choices.

How Does NDIS Relate to School Leaver Employment Supports?

What is the NDIS school leaver employment program?

This program sits under the NDIS and funds supports for young people to prepare for work after school. It aligns with SLES and allows providers like Next Gen Youth Employment to deliver high-quality, goal-oriented support that leads to lasting employment.

How does NDIS support enhance SLES initiatives?

NDIS funding enables providers to personalise every aspect of support—from building soft skills to arranging employer visits. Next Gen Youth Employment works closely with families and participants to ensure their plan reflects their ambitions and capacity to grow.

What are the funding options available through NDIS for SLES?

Through your NDIS plan, you can receive funding for:

• Skills development

• Work experience programs

• Transport to and from work placements

• Ongoing mentorship

Next Gen Youth Employment has a strong understanding of NDIS processes and can help you make the most of available supports.

What Support Do Providers Offer Under SLES?

What types of services do SLES providers offer?

SLES providers deliver a variety of supports, such as:

• Resume building and interview coaching can assist people in finding the right job.

• Work placements

• Social skills training

• Industry insights and career guidance help create a pathway for success in the job market.

At Next Gen Youth Employment, young people receive person-centred support from experienced mentors who genuinely care about their future.

How can providers assist in the transition from school to work?

A great provider not only prepares participants for the job market but also guides them through it. Next Gen Youth Employment creates structured plans, aligns them with employer expectations, and offers real-world opportunities to gain experience and confidence.

What are the best practices for choosing a SLES provider?

Look for providers that:

• Offer individualised programs

• We have experience in youth and disability employment, ensuring we can assist people effectively.

• Maintain strong links with local employers

• Provide transparent, ongoing communication

Next Gen Youth Employment meets all these criteria and more. With a proven track record, they’re trusted by families Australia-wide to support school leavers with real results.

How Can SLES Help Young People Find and Keep a Job?

What strategies do SLES programs use to prepare participants for employment?

Effective strategies include:

• Mock interviews

• Workplace simulations provide a connection between theory and real-world job experiences.

• Industry immersion days

• One-on-one coaching

All of these are offered by Next Gen Youth Employment, with a focus on making young people job-ready and confident.

How does SLES support individuals in achieving their employment goals?

Through consistent support, progress tracking, and tailored mentoring, participants stay on course toward their goals. Next Gen Youth Employment Next Gen Youth Employment understands that employment journeys aren’t linear—they provide the flexibility and support needed for long-term success and capacity building.

What resources are available for work experience through SLES?

SLES providers often partner with local employers to offer meaningful placements. Next Gen Youth Employment has strong industry links that open doors for participants in retail, admin, hospitality, tech, and more.

Q: What is SLES in relation to school leavers?

A: SLES stands for School Leaver Employment Supports, which is a program designed to help eligible school leavers, particularly those with a disability, transition from school to paid employment.

Q: How does the SLES program work in Australia?

A: The SLES program provides additional support to school leavers with a disability, helping them develop the skills and confidence they need to find a job and engage with a DES (Disability Employment Service).

Q: Who is eligible for SLES under the NDIS?

A: Eligible school leavers for SLES under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) are individuals who have completed Year 12 and have a disability that affects their ability to find a job without extra support.

Q: What types of support does SLES offer to school leavers?

A: SLES offers a range of supports to assist people with a disability transition into paid employment, including job readiness training, skill development, and access to a support worker when needed.

Q: How can I access SLES if I have left school?

A: To access SLES, you should first connect with a DES (Disability Employment Service) provider, who can help you understand the supports available and guide you on your employment pathway.

Q: Can SLES participants receive help to find a job?

A: Yes, SLES participants receive tailored support to help them find a job that matches their skills and interests, along with guidance on preparing for interviews and understanding workplace expectations.

Q: What is the difference between SLES and DES?

A: SLES is designed specifically for school leavers with disabilities and provides early intervention supports, whereas DES (Disability Employment Services) is a broader program that assists people with disabilities of all ages to find and keep a job.

Q: What qualifications do support workers in SLES need?

A: Support workers in SLES generally have experience and training in working with people with disabilities. They are equipped to offer the guidance and support needed to help participants succeed in their job search.

Q: How long can I access SLES supports after I leave school?

A: The length of time you can access SLES supports varies, but generally, participants can receive support for up to two years after leaving school to allow enough time for a successful transition into paid work.

Q: What is the early intervention approach in SLES?

A: The early intervention approach in SLES focuses on providing timely support to school leavers with disabilities, helping them build employability skills and confidence before entering the workforce. This improves their chances of securing suitable employment.

Looking for the right support after school?

If you’re a student with a disability—or a parent or carer—Next Gen Youth Employment is here to guide you. Our NDIS-funded programs help young people build skills, gain work experience, and transition confidently into employment.
👉 Contact us today to discuss how we can support your journey after school.