Work Readiness

Our NDIS Work Readiness program (SLES – School Leaver Employment Supports) is for school leavers and adults who want routine, confidence and real workplace skills. Learn in small groups, visit workplaces and practise what employers value.

Register your interest
Work Readiness Program participants learning together

Work Readiness in Action

Work Readiness: Meet Thomas

Work Readiness at a Glance

Offered 50 Weeks A Year

Attend One Or More Days Per Week

Learn In Small, Supportive Groups

Johnny's Place Learning Centres

Use SLES, Capacity Building Or Core

Work Experience & Workplace Visits

Develop Practical, Hands-On Skills

Progress Check-Ins And Goal Tracking

Ask About Shuttle Transport Options

Your Work Readiness Journey

Work Readiness Journey flowchart

What You'll Learn

Work Foundations

  • Time Management
  • Professionalism
  • Workplace Health & Safety
  • Ethics In The Workplace
  • Probation & Performance Reviews

Communication

  • Verbal Communication
  • Conversation Skills
  • Asking Questions
  • Self Advocacy
  • Confidence & Problem Solving

Self Awareness & Mindset

  • Skills & Strengths
  • Growth vs Fixed Mindset
  • Motivation
  • Understanding Emotions
  • Resilience & Teamwork

Job Pathways

  • Exploring Jobs
  • Individual Career Outlook
  • What Is Work Experience?
  • Starting A New Job

Safety Foundations

  • Safety Foundations
  • Chemical Safety (awareness)
  • Reporting Concerns

Practical Life For Work

  • Money Management
  • Digital Basics
  • Planning Your Week
  • Travel To Work

Dedicated Learning Centres

Johnny's Place is the heart of our Work Readiness program – a welcoming space for small-group learning, practical activities and building workplace skills. Familiar surroundings and clear routines help participants relax, try new things and practise skills with support.

Penrith

Workplace Visits

We partner with local businesses to offer workplace visits, giving participants hands-on insight into a variety of different industries.

Participants on workplace visit

The Power of Groups

Peer Modelling & Social Learning

See your peers try a task, copy the steps and pick up new skills faster.

Real Friendships & Belonging

Shared activities and wins build genuine friendships and a sense of belonging.

Social Inclusion

The social confidence gained in a group leads directly to greater social inclusion.

Communication In The Moment

Practice turn-taking, problem-solving and see other perspectives with real people.

Motivation & Confidence

Encouragement from the group increases participation and helps new habits stick.

Cost-Effective Supports

Small-group delivery helps NDIS funds stretch further while maintaining quality.

Meet the Team

Scott  Hirst

Scott Hirst

Founder & Managing Director

Theresa  Ardrey

Theresa Ardrey

General Manager - Operations

Laura Kennedy

Laura Kennedy

General Manager - Compliance & Client Services

Jack  Vignes

Jack Vignes

General Manager - People & Culture

Janelle E

Janelle E

Marketing & Communications

Tara  Hargreaves

Tara Hargreaves

National Activities & Tours Manager

Linda Burns

Linda Burns

Nepean Centre Manager

Lauren  Noordhuis

Lauren Noordhuis

Regional Events & Tours Coordinator

Leah  Theobald

Leah Theobald

Accommodation Services Coordinator

Phoebe  Thurlow

Phoebe Thurlow

Team Leader - Social & Community

Caleb Bartholomew

Caleb Bartholomew

Team Leader - Life Skills

Brody Malietoa

Brody Malietoa

Regional Learning Coordinator

Renee  Taverna

Renee Taverna

Team Leader - Life Skills

Swipe to see more team members

The many day adventures and short trips Scott has been on have brought him right out of his shell. He has the biggest, happiest and natural smile which isn't something that I've seen in Scott prior to starting at Johnny H.

Narelle and Scott

Narelle Vella

Parent

Since joining Johnny H, I’ve learnt how to make new friends and really enjoy spending time with everyone. One of my favourite things is making my own lunch and baking tasty treats. The support workers who run the day program are really great – they make every day fun and help me learn new skills.

Will

Will

Johnny H Participant

James is also very social and Johnny H enables him to have social interactions with his peers. James especially loves the outings and camps. Johnny H assists James in developing the skills to have more independence.

James

Christie Weeler

Participant Sister

I have learnt so much since joining Johnny H. I am more confident and independent. I have learnt that I can do a lot of things on my own that I didn’t think I could do.

Dylan Johnny H Participant

Dylan

Johnny H Participant

We get to go different places with friends. I've been to Japan, Singapore, Fiji and on a cruise. Japan was a good experience because it was different food and culture. I have more friends now and I am included.

Sarah Johnny H Participant

Sarah

Johnny H Participant

What to expect in your first month

Hello and goals

We chat about your interests and NDIS goals.

Goal marker
1

Welcome session

Meet the team, see the hub, confirm schedule.

Goal marker
2

Start weekly sessions

Small groups, clear routines, positive support.

Goal marker
3

Check-in

Quick update on your progress and next steps.

Goal marker
4

Keen to get involved?

Tell us a little about yourself in the form below and we'll get right back to you.



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