SLES: A Complete Guide for Australian School Leavers with Disability

Leaving school is a significant milestone for everyone, but for young Australians with disability, it can bring unique opportunities and challenges. One vital support available through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to help navigate this transition is School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES). This blog post from DisabilityInsights aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of SLES, how it works, and how to access it. See our complete A Comprehensive Guide To SLES guide for a deeper dive.

What are School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES)?

SLES is an early intervention support specifically designed to assist Year 12 students and recent school leavers with disability to prepare for, find, and maintain employment. It is funded under the NDIS Capacity Building budget and aims to equip young Participants with the skills and confidence needed to achieve their employment goals. It's not just about finding a job; it's about building a sustainable and fulfilling career pathway.

SLES is typically provided for up to two years post-school, recognising that transitioning into the workforce requires time, tailored support, and skill development.

What SLES Can Cover:

SLES funding can be used for a range of activities, including but not limited to:

• Career exploration and planning: Identifying interests, skills, and potential career pathways.
• Resume and cover letter writing: Crafting effective application materials that highlight strengths and experience.
• Interview skills training: Practicing interview techniques, building confidence, and understanding employer expectations.
• Workplace readiness skills: Developing essential workplace skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management.
• On-the-job support: Providing guidance and support during the initial stages of employment to ensure a smooth transition.
• Travel training: Learning to navigate public transport or other means of getting to and from work independently.
• Mentoring and peer support: Connecting with mentors and peers who have experience in the workforce.
• Specific skills training: Acquiring specific skills relevant to a desired job or industry (e.g., customer service, data entry).

What SLES Isn't:

It's important to understand that SLES is not a job placement service that guarantees employment. While it aims to improve employment prospects, the ultimate goal is to equip Participants with the skills and confidence to secure and maintain employment themselves. SLES also doesn't cover long-term ongoing workplace support, which may be available through other NDIS funding categories once a Participant has secured employment.

Key NDIS Considerations for SLES

Understanding the NDIS processes is crucial for accessing SLES. Here are some key considerations:

• Eligibility: To be eligible for SLES, a person must be an NDIS Participant, typically in their final year of school or recently graduated, and have employment goals outlined in their NDIS Plan. They must also demonstrate a need for support to achieve these goals due to their disability.
• Planning Meeting: SLES funding is determined during the NDIS planning meeting. Be prepared to discuss the Participant's employment aspirations, current skills, and the specific supports needed to achieve their goals. Gathering supporting documentation, such as school reports, assessments from therapists, and any previous employment experience, can be extremely helpful.
• Goal Setting: Articulate clear and measurable employment goals. Instead of saying "I want a job," aim for something like "I want to secure a part-time position in retail customer service within the next 12 months."
• Choosing a Provider: Once funding is approved, you can choose an NDIS-registered provider that offers SLES. Research different providers and compare their services, experience, and approach. Look for providers with a strong track record of supporting young people with similar disabilities to achieve their employment goals. Ask about their staff qualifications, training methods, and how they tailor their support to individual needs. It is vital to remember you have the choice and control over who you choose as a provider.
• Service Agreement: Before commencing SLES, you will need to sign a service agreement with the provider. This agreement outlines the services to be provided, the cost, the responsibilities of both parties, and the process for resolving any issues. Review the agreement carefully before signing.
• Plan Review: SLES funding is typically reviewed as part of the Participant's regular NDIS plan review. Be prepared to discuss progress made, challenges encountered, and any adjustments needed to the support plan. Keeping detailed records of activities, outcomes, and feedback from the provider will be invaluable during the review process.
• Evidence: Ensure you have documented evidence of the need for SLES. This might include reports from Occupational Therapists, Psychologists or Teachers who can attest to the barriers a young person may face.

Practical Steps to Accessing SLES

Here's a step-by-step guide to accessing SLES:

1. Ensure NDIS Eligibility: Confirm that the school leaver is eligible for the NDIS and has an approved NDIS Plan.
2. Prepare for the Planning Meeting: Gather all relevant documentation, including school reports, assessments, and a clear statement of employment goals.
3. Attend the Planning Meeting: Advocate for SLES funding and clearly articulate the need for support. Provide evidence to support your request.
4. Review the NDIS Plan: Once the plan is approved, carefully review it to ensure that SLES funding is included.
5. Choose a Provider: Research and select an NDIS-registered provider that offers SLES and meets the individual's needs and preferences. Consider factors such as location, services offered, staff qualifications, and approach.
6. Sign a Service Agreement: Review and sign a service agreement with the chosen provider.
7. Commence SLES: Begin working with the provider to develop and implement a tailored support plan.
8. Regular Communication: Maintain regular communication with the provider, the Participant, and the NDIS planner to track progress and address any issues.
9. Prepare for Plan Reviews: Continuously gather evidence of progress and challenges to support future funding requests.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Difficulty Articulating Goals: Sometimes, young people may struggle to define their employment goals. SLES providers can help with career exploration and identifying suitable pathways. Utilise career aptitude tests and explore various work experience opportunities to discover interests.
• Limited Work Experience: Many school leavers have limited or no prior work experience. SLES can help with volunteering opportunities, work placements, and developing essential workplace skills.
• Low Confidence: Building confidence is crucial. SLES can provide opportunities for skill development, positive reinforcement, and peer support.
• Finding the Right Provider: Researching and selecting the right provider can be challenging. Talk to multiple providers, ask questions, and read reviews to find a good fit. Don't be afraid to switch providers if the initial choice isn't working out.
• Understanding NDIS Processes: Navigating the NDIS can be complex. Seek support from an NDIS advocate or support coordinator to understand the processes and access the appropriate supports.

Conclusion

SLES provides a valuable opportunity for Australian school leavers with disability to achieve their employment goals and build a fulfilling career. By understanding the NDIS processes, setting clear goals, choosing the right provider, and actively participating in the support process, young Participants can maximise the benefits of SLES and create a brighter future. Remember, the journey to employment may have its challenges, but with the right support and determination, success is achievable. DisabilityInsights is committed to empowering you with the knowledge and resources you need to navigate the NDIS and achieve your full potential.