School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) can play an important role in helping your child transition from the education system into employment. As a parent, you are often the first person your child turns to for guidance, so understanding how SLES works in the NDIS context, can help you support their journey with confidence.
This guide explains what SLES is, how Access Your Supports (AYS) delivers it, and how you can help your child prepare for work with clarity and purpose.
What is SLES?
School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) is a type of NDIS-funded support that helps young people with disability prepare for employment. It focuses on building work-related skills, confidence, and independence.
At Access Your Supports, SLES is a major part of our Employment Support service.
SLES is available during the final years of school and for up to two years after leaving school. It provides practical experience, goal setting, and personalised support for young people who want to enter the workforce.
How AYS Helps Your Child with SLES
AYS supports young people through individualised programs that focus on skill development and work readiness. Our team helps participants prepare for work, connect with employers, and gain experience in real job settings.
Here are some of the ways we support your child:
- Work experience in open employment settings
- Job site training and supervision
- Resume writing and interview preparation
- Workplace communication and social skills
- Travel training for getting to and from work
- Connections to future employment support
We also help participants overcome personal barriers to employment by working with their goals and using our local network of employers.
Watch our video to Get to Know Your SLES Program with AYS.
Why Parental Support Matters
Your involvement can make a big difference. Parents often help with transport, communication, decision-making, and emotional support. Encouraging your child to explore their interests aligned to their employment and celebrate their progress builds motivation and self-esteem.
You can:
- Ask your child what jobs they’re interested in
- Support them through challenges without taking over
- Attend meetings or planning sessions with the AYS care team
- Help them practice skills at home, like communication or time management
- Stay informed about their progress and upcoming opportunities
Getting Started with AYS in Four Steps
Starting SLES with AYS is easy – here’s how:
1. Check Your Eligibility
Make sure your child is an NDIS participant with employment goals in their plan. If you’re unsure, AYS can help check this.
2. Contact AYS
Call our team at (03) 4222 7479, fill out the contact form, or submit the Employment Support Referral Form. We will guide you through the next steps.
3. Meet for a Consultation
We’ll meet with you and your child to discuss goals, strengths, and interests. We then create a personalised plan that supports their career journey.
4. Begin the Program
Your child begins skill-building activities and receives ongoing support. This may include job trials, training, and employer engagement.
Common Questions from Parents
How long does SLES last?
SLES can last for up to two years, depending on your child’s goals and progress.
Can my child receive other NDIS supports while using SLES?
Yes. SLES can be used alongside other capacity-building supports in their plan.
What makes SLES different from other job programs?
SLES is designed for school leavers with disability who need help building work-readiness. It focuses on practical skills and confidence, rather than direct job placements.
What happens after SLES ends?
AYS helps your child connect to long-term supports, including Disability Employment Services (DES) and other community job programs.
Final Thoughts for Parents
Starting work is a big step for any young person. With the right support, your child can gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed. At AYS, we are committed to working alongside your family every step of the way.
If your child is finishing school and has employment goals, contact our team or submit a referral today.
