What will my Autistic Teen do after School?
- Michelle Silberman
- May 27
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 5
Leaving school is a big transition—especially for autistic teenagers and young adults. For many, it can feel overwhelming to think about finding a job, gaining independence, or knowing what to do next. That’s where NDIS School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) can make all the difference. It's vital to find out how NDIS helps Autistic school leavers take the next step toward employment. Whether you’re a parent or a young person exploring what comes after Year 12, this blog will guide you through how SLES funding through the NDIS helps autistic school leavers move toward employment with confidence and support.
What Is NDIS SLES?
SLES (School Leaver Employment Supports) is a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funded program designed to help young people with disability—especially autistic school leavers—transition from school into work or further training.
It focuses on building job readiness skills over one or two years after school, rather than placing someone directly into a job. This includes support with:
Exploring career options
Developing workplace communication skills
Building independence and routine
Gaining real-life work experience
Increasing social confidence
If you want NDIS employment supports for autistic young adults or you're wondering what to do after school for autistic teens.
Why SLES Is Ideal for Autistic School Leavers
For autistic school leavers, the idea of work can be both exciting and overwhelming. They may have strong interests and strengths, but need support with communication, anxiety, or understanding workplace expectations.
That’s where NDIS SLES providers like Diverse Pathways come in. We provide autism-specific employment support, offering a low-pressure, structured, and empowering environment for young people to grow and thrive.
SLES helps build:
Confidence in workplace settings
Time management and organisational skills
Understanding of job roles and responsibilities
The ability to work in a team
Self-advocacy and communication skills
If you're searching for job readiness for autistic teenagers or SLES program for autism, this is exactly what SLES is designed for.
What Does SLES Cover in an NDIS Plan?
SLES is funded under Capacity Building – Finding and Keeping a Job in your NDIS plan. If your young person is finishing school (usually Year 12 or within two years post-school), you can request SLES funding.
SLES funding can be used for:
One-on-one support with an NDIS mentor or job coach
Group skill-building activities
Community access and travel training
Assistance with job applications, resumes, and interviews
Work experience placements in real-life settings
When talking to your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or planner ask about NDIS job supports, transition to work for school leavers and autistic employment help to clearly express your goals.
Why Choose Diverse Pathways Central Coast as Your SLES Provider?
Diverse Pathways Central Coast is a trusted local NDIS provider specialising in support for autistic and neurodiverse young people.
We understand that no two young people are the same. That’s why our SLES program is fully customised and strengths-based, with a focus on real outcomes and individual growth.
Our SLES participants benefit from:
✔ One-on-one mentoring with autism-aware staff
✔ Small, supportive group settings to build confidence
✔ Work experience based on personal interests
✔ Support for further study, volunteering, or self-employment
✔ Help navigating NDIS, MyGov, and Centrelink
If you want the premier SLES provider Central Coast, providing autism job support NDIS or a school to work transition program, Diverse Pathways is your top option—because we truly care about getting it right.
When Should You Apply for SLES?
If your child is in Year 12 or has recently finished school, now is the right time to ask about SLES funding in your NDIS plan. Don’t wait until the school year ends—early planning helps avoid gaps in support.
You can ask your NDIS planner or support coordinator to include School Leaver Employment Supports in your next plan review.
If you're wondering how to get SLES funding, there is NDIS planning for school leavers and NDIS provides autism post-school support.
Take the Next Step with Confidence
With the right support, autistic young adults can discover their strengths, gain new skills, and move toward meaningful work or further study.
SLES isn’t about rushing the process—it’s about preparing for success.
If you're ready to start the next chapter, reach out to Diverse Pathways Central Coast today. We’ll help you navigate SLES funding and create a support plan that fits your goals.
📞 Contact Diverse Pathways on 1300 348 333 now to learn how our SLES program can support you or your teenager to take the next steps with skills, cinfidence and support.
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