If you have a child approaching the end of high school — or you're a young person with disability preparing to transition out of the school system — you've probably come across the term SLES. It's one of the most searched NDIS topics in Western Sydney, and one of the most misunderstood.
This guide explains exactly what SLES is, who can access it, what it funds, and how Thorndale Foundation's SLES programme supports school leavers in the Penrith and Western Sydney region.
What Is SLES?
SLES stands for School Leavers Employment Supports. It is an NDIS-funded support category specifically designed for young people with disability who are transitioning out of secondary school and moving toward employment.
The goal of SLES is to build the practical skills, confidence, and work experience that a school leaver needs to eventually move into open or supported employment. It is typically funded for up to two years after a participant finishes Year 12.
Who Is SLES For?
SLES is available to NDIS participants who:
- Are in their final years of secondary school, or have recently left school
- Have disability-related support needs that affect their ability to transition into work
- Have employment-related goals included in their NDIS plan
- Are aged between 15 and 22 (in most cases)
Support coordinators and plan managers can assist families in having SLES included in an upcoming NDIS plan review if it is not already funded.
What Does SLES Actually Cover?
SLES funding can be used for a wide range of activities aimed at developing employment readiness. This includes:
- Work experience placement: Supervised trial shifts and workplace visits across a range of industries
- Vocational skills training: Learning job-specific skills in areas like hospitality, retail, manufacturing, or administration
- Workplace behaviour and social skills: Communication, time management, following instructions, working in a team
- Resume and interview preparation: Building a first CV, practising interview techniques, understanding job applications
- Independent living and travel training: Learning to catch public transport, manage a routine, and navigate work environments independently
What SLES does not cover: it cannot be used for standard education or training (that falls under other NDIS categories), nor for employment support once a participant is already in an ongoing paid role.
How Is SLES Different From Day Programs?
This is one of the most common questions families ask. Both SLES and day programs are NDIS-funded, but they serve different purposes:
SLES | Day Programs | |
Who is it for? | Young people (15–22) leaving school | Adults with disability of any age |
Main goal | Move toward open or supported employment | Social participation, life skills, community access |
Duration | Usually up to 2 years post-school | Ongoing, no fixed end date |
Focus | Employment skills and work readiness | Quality of life, independence, social connection |
How Thorndale Foundation Delivers SLES
Thorndale Foundation has been supporting people with disability in Western Sydney for over 60 years. Our SLES programme is based at our Werrington location and serves school leavers across the Penrith, Kingswood, Cambridge Park, St Marys, and broader Western Sydney area.
Our SLES participants work alongside our Thorndale Industries team, gaining real work experience in a supported, structured environment. We focus on building confidence first — then skills, then employment pathways.
Every participant works with a dedicated support worker who tracks their progress, adjusts goals, and communicates regularly with families and support coordinators.
Frequently Asked Questions About SLES
What age can you start SLES?
Most participants begin SLES in their final one or two years of secondary school, or in the year immediately following graduation. NDIS guidelines generally apply SLES to participants aged 15 to 22, though this can vary depending on your plan and state.
How long does SLES last?
SLES is typically funded for up to two years. The aim is for participants to transition into supported or open employment within that time. In some cases, funding can be extended if a participant's goals require additional time.
What NDIS support category does SLES fall under?
SLES falls under Capacity Building — specifically the "Finding and Keeping a Job" support category (CB Employment). This is separate from Core Supports funding, so it requires its own line item in an NDIS plan.
Can my child do SLES and day programs at the same time?
Yes — in some cases. If a participant has both CB Employment and Core Supports funding in their plan, they may be able to access both programmes. A support coordinator can help structure this. It's worth discussing at your next NDIS plan review.
How do I get SLES added to my NDIS plan?
SLES needs to be included in your NDIS plan under the Capacity Building budget. If it isn't currently funded, raise it at your next plan review and bring evidence of your employment goals. A letter of support from Thorndale or your school can help strengthen the case.
Ready to Find Out if Thorndale's SLES Programme Is Right for You?
Our team is based in Werrington and works with participants and families across Western Sydney. We're happy to talk through your situation before you commit to anything.
Call us: (02) 9912 7800
Email: [email protected]
Enquire online: www.thorndale.com.au/services/school-leavers-employment-support
