NDIS School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) - A Comprehensive Guide

Leaving school is a significant milestone. For young people with disability, it can be both exciting and daunting. The NDIS School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) are designed to ease this transition, providing targeted assistance to help participants achieve their employment goals. SLES is a crucial investment in a young person’s future, empowering them to gain meaningful employment and independence. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of SLES, helping you understand its purpose, how to access it, and how to make the most of it.

See our complete What Is SLES And Who Can Access It guide for a quick overview of eligibility and the fundamental purpose of SLES.

What are NDIS School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES)?

SLES is a specific type of support available under the NDIS, specifically aimed at supporting Year 12 school leavers with disability to prepare for, find, and maintain employment. It focuses on building the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the workforce. SLES is not a one-size-fits-all program; it's tailored to each participant's individual needs, goals, and aspirations. Think of it as a stepping stone, providing intensive, individually focused support to bridge the gap between education and employment.

SLES funding is designed to be used before a participant finds ongoing employment. Once a participant secures stable employment (generally considered at least 8 hours per week consistently), the focus shifts towards Disability Employment Services (DES). SLES provides a pre-employment foundation; DES provides ongoing support in the workplace.

Key Goals of SLES:

• Increase Employability: Develop essential skills like resume writing, interview techniques, time management, and communication.
• Explore Career Options: Help participants identify their interests, strengths, and potential career pathways.
• Build Confidence: Empower participants to overcome barriers and believe in their ability to succeed in the workplace.
• Develop Workplace Skills: Provide opportunities to practice workplace skills in real-world settings, such as volunteering or work experience.
• Find and Maintain Employment: Support participants in their job search and provide ongoing support to help them thrive in their chosen role.

Key NDIS Considerations for SLES

Understanding the NDIS framework is crucial when navigating SLES. Here are some key considerations:

• Eligibility: To be eligible for SLES, a participant must be a registered NDIS participant, be in their final year of school (or have recently left), and have employment goals clearly identified in their NDIS plan. The NDIS will assess the participant’s need for SLES based on their individual circumstances and the potential benefits it can provide.
• Funding Category: SLES funding typically falls under the Capacity Building – Finding and Keeping a Job support category within an NDIS Plan. It’s essential to ensure that sufficient funding is allocated to this category to cover the supports required.
• Plan Goals: Employment goals should be clearly articulated in the participant's NDIS Plan. These goals serve as the foundation for the SLES program and will guide the supports provided. Review the plan regularly to ensure it still reflects the participant’s aspirations.
• Choice and Control: The NDIS principles of choice and control are paramount. Participants have the right to choose their SLES provider and to be actively involved in developing their support plan. Take the time to research different providers and find one that best suits the participant’s needs and preferences.
• Reasonable and Necessary: All supports funded by the NDIS must be deemed "reasonable and necessary." This means the supports must be related to the participant's disability, be likely to be effective and beneficial, and represent value for money. SLES funding requests will be assessed against these criteria.
• NDIS Review: The NDIS Plan, including the SLES component, will be reviewed periodically. This is an opportunity to assess the effectiveness of the supports and make any necessary adjustments. Be prepared to provide evidence of progress and demonstrate how SLES has helped the participant achieve their employment goals.
• Coordination of Supports: SLES should be coordinated with other supports in the participant's NDIS Plan, such as therapy, assistive technology, and social skills training. A holistic approach is essential to ensure the participant receives comprehensive support.

Practical Steps to Access and Utilize SLES

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the SLES process:

1. NDIS Plan Review: Ensure that the participant's NDIS plan includes clear employment goals and sufficient funding allocated to the Capacity Building – Finding and Keeping a Job support category. If not, request a plan review.
2. Gather Evidence: Compile supporting documentation, such as school reports, therapy reports, and any other evidence that demonstrates the participant's need for SLES and their potential to benefit from it.
3. Choose a Provider: Research and select an SLES provider that aligns with the participant's needs, goals, and preferences. Consider factors such as the provider's experience, expertise, and the types of supports they offer. Speak to several providers before making a decision.
4. Develop a Support Plan: Work collaboratively with the chosen provider to develop a tailored support plan that outlines the specific goals, strategies, and activities that will be undertaken as part of the SLES program. This plan should be regularly reviewed and updated as needed.
5. Implement the Plan: Actively participate in the SLES program and work closely with the support worker to achieve the agreed-upon goals. Attend all scheduled appointments and actively engage in the activities and training provided.
6. Track Progress: Monitor the participant's progress and document any achievements or challenges encountered. This information will be valuable during NDIS plan reviews and can help to inform any necessary adjustments to the support plan.
7. Transition to DES: As the participant progresses and approaches employment, work with the SLES provider to transition to Disability Employment Services (DES). DES provides ongoing support to help participants maintain employment and develop their careers.
8. Understand Reporting Requirements: SLES Providers are required to report on the progress made and outcomes achieved by Participants. Be sure to understand what this reporting involves, and how it contributes to future plan reviews.

Conclusion

NDIS School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) represent a significant opportunity for young people with disability to achieve their employment aspirations and live more independent lives. By understanding the key NDIS considerations, following the practical steps outlined above, and actively participating in the SLES program, participants can unlock their potential and build a brighter future. Remember to advocate for the participant's needs and ensure their voice is heard throughout the process. SLES is more than just a program; it's an investment in a young person's future, empowering them to achieve their dreams and contribute to society.