Building Futures Through Creativity and Craft: Inside the Diverse Pathways SLES Program

For many young people navigating the transition to adulthood, discovering a passion and turning it into a pathway to employment is an empowering experience. At Diverse Pathways, the School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) program helps make that journey possible—offering a variety of hands-on learning streams tailored to real-world interests and skills. Two standout options? Creative Arts and Carpentry.

These programs not only nurture talent but also provide practical skills that can spark long-term career opportunities.

School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) Creative Arts program offers hands-on learning streams tailored to real-world interests and skills.

Creative Arts: A Space to Express and Explore

Creativity isn’t just about making something beautiful—it’s about thinking differently, solving problems, and expressing identity. In the Creative Arts SLES stream, participants develop their talents in painting, photography, sewing, and more.

In a supportive, inclusive environment, young artists explore everything from working with new materials to understanding colour theory and composition. While the focus is on personal growth and exploration, the skills developed here also align with potential careers in graphic design, arts and crafts, and digital media.

For many, this program builds more than just portfolios—it builds confidence.

"I used to think art was just a hobby. Now I’m learning how to turn it into something more."— Creative Arts SLES participant

Carpentry: Learning by Building

If you’ve ever felt the satisfaction of building something with your own hands, you’ll understand the draw of the Carpentry program. Here, participants learn how to use tools, measure and cut wood, and assemble useful wooden items—building everything from birdhouses to small furniture.

Beyond hands-on skills, this stream helps young people develop patience, problem-solving, and attention to detail. For many, it’s a stepping stone into apprenticeships, construction roles, or furniture making.

Participants in the School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) Carpentry Program gain real-world skills matching career goals for the construction industry.

"I love that I can see what I’ve built at the end of the day. It gives me pride."— Carpentry SLES participant

A Whole-Person Approach to Learning

While these two streams shine in their own right, they're just a small part of the full SLES program offered by Diverse Pathways neurodiversity hub on NSW Central Coast. Each stream—from Life Skills and Technology to Horticulture, Health & Wellbeing, and Retail—is designed to meet young people where they are and support them as they grow.

Participants also gain essential life tools such as:

• Time management and budgeting

• Meal preparation and personal care

• Communication and workplace confidence

• Basic maintenance and tech literacy

Whether someone dreams of working in hospitality, coding websites, maintaining gardens, or running a retail shop, there’s a pathway to support that goal.

Planting Seeds for the Future

What makes Diverse Pathways neurodiversity hub unique is its commitment to real-world readiness. It’s not just about skill-building—it’s about building purpose, independence, and self-belief. Through personalised support and hands-on learning, participants gain the tools to shape their future with confidence.

Are you or someone you know ready to explore a creative or practical career path? The Diverse Pathways SLES program is more than training—it’s a launchpad for young people with big dreams.