SLES: A Guide for School Leavers with Disability in Australia

Leaving school is a major transition, filled with excitement and perhaps a little uncertainty. For school leavers with disability, navigating the next steps toward employment can feel particularly complex. School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) are designed to provide tailored support to help Participants achieve their employment goals. This blog post offers a comprehensive guide to understanding SLES and how to access it.

See our complete ndis-guide-for-down-syndrome-early-intervention-to-school-leaver-employment-supports-sles guide

What is SLES?

School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) is an NDIS funded support aimed at building the capacity of Participants to achieve their employment goals. SLES is available to NDIS Participants who are in their final year of school, or have recently left school, and are under the age of 25 at the time of approval. The goal is to increase independence and participation in the workforce.

Unlike some other NDIS supports, SLES is specifically targeted at employment. It's about equipping Participants with the skills and confidence they need to find and maintain meaningful employment. This might involve anything from work experience and skill development to job searching and workplace support.

Key NDIS Considerations for SLES

Understanding the nuances of the NDIS is crucial when seeking SLES funding. Here are some vital aspects to consider:

• Eligibility: To be eligible for SLES, you must be an NDIS Participant and generally be in your final year of school or have recently left, and be under the age of 25 at the time of SLES funding approval. Your Plan must also include employment goals. This means that your NDIS Plan should clearly state that you are aiming to find employment.
• Plan Goals: Your NDIS Plan is the roadmap for your support. Make sure your employment goals are clearly articulated within the "Employment" domain of your Plan. These goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). For example, instead of "Get a job," a SMART goal would be "Secure a paid part-time position in a retail setting within 6 months, working a minimum of 8 hours per week."
• Funding Categories: SLES funding typically falls under the "Capacity Building" supports category in your NDIS Plan, specifically within the "Finding and Keeping a Job" area. This funding is designed to build skills, knowledge, and confidence for employment.
• Reasonable and Necessary: As with all NDIS funding, SLES funding must be deemed "reasonable and necessary." This means that the supports must be related to your disability, assist you to pursue your goals, be value for money, and be most appropriately funded or provided through the NDIS. Your advocate or support coordinator can help you demonstrate this during the Plan development or review process.
• Provider Choice: You have the right to choose your SLES provider. Take the time to research and select a provider that aligns with your goals and preferences. Consider their experience, the types of programs they offer, and their approach to supporting Participants.
• Plan Reviews: Your NDIS Plan, including your SLES funding, will be reviewed periodically. Use these reviews as an opportunity to assess your progress, adjust your goals, and ensure that your supports are meeting your needs. Prepare for your Plan review by gathering evidence of your achievements, challenges, and future goals.

Practical Steps to Accessing SLES

Getting SLES funding can seem daunting, but breaking it down into manageable steps can make the process easier:

1. Prepare for your NDIS Plan meeting: Gather information about your employment aspirations. Think about the types of jobs you are interested in, the skills you have, and the support you need. Consider completing a career assessment to help identify your strengths and interests.
2. Clearly Articulate Your Goals: During your NDIS Plan meeting, be clear and specific about your employment goals. Explain how SLES will help you achieve these goals. Provide examples of the skills you want to develop and the types of experiences you are seeking.
3. Gather Supporting Evidence: Collect any relevant documentation that supports your application for SLES. This might include school reports, assessments from therapists or specialists, or letters of support from teachers or employers.
4. Find a Suitable SLES Provider: Research different SLES providers in your area. Contact them to learn about their programs and services. Consider visiting their facilities and meeting with their staff. Choose a provider that you feel comfortable with and that you believe will be a good fit for your needs.
5. Work with Your Provider to Develop a Plan: Once you have chosen a provider, work with them to develop a detailed plan that outlines your SLES activities. This plan should be aligned with your NDIS goals and should be regularly reviewed and updated.
6. Implement Your SLES Plan: Actively participate in your SLES program. Attend all scheduled sessions, complete assigned tasks, and communicate openly with your provider about your progress and challenges.
7. Track Your Progress: Keep track of your progress towards your employment goals. This might involve recording your achievements, documenting your challenges, and collecting feedback from your provider and employer.
8. Prepare for Plan Reviews: Use your progress data to prepare for your NDIS Plan reviews. Demonstrate how SLES has helped you to develop your skills, increase your confidence, and move closer to your employment goals.

Examples of SLES Activities

SLES programs can vary widely depending on the individual's needs and goals. Common activities include:

• Work Experience Placements: Gaining practical experience in a real workplace setting.
• Job Skills Training: Developing skills such as resume writing, interview techniques, and workplace communication.
• On-the-Job Support: Receiving support from a job coach or mentor in the workplace.
• Travel Training: Learning how to travel independently to and from work.
• Social Skills Development: Improving social skills necessary for workplace interactions.
• Career Counselling: Receiving guidance and support in exploring career options and making informed decisions.
• Vocational Training: Participating in courses or workshops to develop specific job-related skills.

Navigating Provider Differences

SLES providers offer a range of approaches and specializations. Some might focus on specific industries, like hospitality or retail, while others offer more general employability skills training. It's essential to do your research and find a provider that aligns with your interests and goals.

Before committing to a provider, ask questions about their program structure, the qualifications of their staff, and their success rates in placing Participants in employment. It is acceptable to "shop around" and speak to several providers before making a choice. Remember, you have the right to choose the provider that best meets your needs.

Conclusion

SLES is a valuable resource for school leavers with disability who are striving to achieve their employment aspirations. By understanding the NDIS processes, clearly articulating your goals, and working with a supportive provider, you can unlock your potential and embark on a rewarding career journey. Leaving school marks the start of an exciting new chapter, and SLES can provide the support you need to thrive in the world of work. Remember to actively participate in your Plan development and reviews, ensuring your voice is heard and your needs are met.