Planning the move from school to work
Year 12 transition planning with the NDIS — how SLES works, when to start, setting work goals in the plan, and involving school and family.
The move from school to work is a big step, and it goes best when you start early. This guide explains how transition planning works with the NDIS — what School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) is, when to begin, how to set work goals in the plan, and how to bring school and family into the process.
Start earlier than you think
What SLES is (and isn't)
Setting work goals in the plan
Bringing school and family in
Common worries families have
A rough timeline
Frequently asked questions
What is SLES?
School Leaver Employment Supports is NDIS-funded, time-limited capacity building for young people who've finished Year 12. It builds the skills and confidence to move toward employment over a defined period.
Is SLES the same as DES?
No. SLES is funded by the NDIS; Disability Employment Services (DES) is a separate federal employment service. They can work together, but they're different programs with different funding.
When should we start planning?
Ideally a year or two before school ends, so there's time to explore options, try work experience and set clear goals in the plan before the young person leaves school.
Does my child have to do SLES?
No. SLES is one path. Others include going straight to a DES provider, into supported employment, or into further study. The right choice depends on their goals and readiness.
How do we get SLES into the plan?
Raise a work or post-school goal at the planning conversation and ask about SLES and employment-related supports. Bring the school's transition planning and your own knowledge of your child's needs.