Training Programs
Building skills towards successful employment
Other NDIS training and work experience programs
Employ for Ability offers a range of NDIS-funded programs to help eligible neurodivergent young adults build the skills, confidence and independence they need to take the next steps in their journey, whether that’s sustainable employment, mainstream higher or vocational education, or just increasing their independence.
All Employ for Ability programs follow a strengths-based learning philosophy, providing practical skills and increasing participants’ confidence. Our team brings professional knowledge and lived experience of neurodivergence. We neuro-affirming approach tailored to each participant’s goals, learning preferences and support needs.
Programs
Effective Communication Program
Inclusions:
-
- 10 x 3hr weekly small group sessions, and
- 10 x 1hr 1:1 coaching sessions to reinforce & apply learnings
Delivery mode:
-
- In person (Canberra)
Overview:
-
- Neurodivergent adults may have challenges with social communication. The program equips participants with the communication skills and self-regulation strategies needed for successful employment. The program uses practical examples, exercises and individual support to learn communication techniques needed in the workplace and all relationships while keeping the sessions relaxed and fun.
Key topics include: self-awareness, self-regulation strategies, giving & receiving feedback, self-advocacy, conflict resolution and workplace bullying & harassment.
Time Management
Inclusions:
-
- 4 x 2hr weekly small group sessions, and
- 4 x 1hr 1:1 coaching sessions to reinforce & apply learnings
Delivery mode:
-
- In person (Canberra) or online
Overview:
-
- Time management is a common struggle faced by neurodivergent adults. The program provides time management frameworks and simple tips and techniques to manage time more efficiently.
Key topics include: understanding individual default behaviors, successful preparation, prioritisation and contingencies & responding to unexpected events.
Executive Functioning
Inclusions:
-
- 1 x 1hr pre-commencement session
- 10 x 3hr weekly small group sessions, and
- 10 x 1hr 1:1 coaching sessions to reinforce & apply learnings
Delivery mode:
-
- In person (Canberra) or online
Overview:
-
- This program builds awareness and practical skills across key areas of executive functioning, including planning and organisation, task initiation, cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control and emotional self-regulation. Through activities, practical examples and individual coaching, participants identify and apply strategies that support them at work and in everyday life.
Finance
Inclusions:
-
- 9 x 2hr small group sessions, and
- 9 x 1hr 1:1 coaching sessions to reinforce & apply learnings
- Note: participants have the option to only enrol in topic areas relevant to their needs
Delivery mode:
-
- In person (Canberra)
Overview:
-
- Topic 1 – Financial Awareness – Covers core topics such as the cost of things, income vs lifestyle, want vs needs
- Topic 2 – Financial Literacy – Covers definitions and terminology, taxation, earning power and overview of an NDIS plan
- Topic 3 – Job Ready – Covers employment processes and applications including taxation, TFN and superannuation.
- Topic 4 – Budgeting & Goals – Covers setting a budget & savings plan, how to factor in & manage unexpected events, the benefits of independent living, and planning for independent living expenses.
- Topic 5 – Advanced Skills – Covers taxation, financial scams and loans & borrowing.
Nutrition
Inclusions:
-
- 5 x 2hr weekly small group sessions, and
- 5 x 1hr 1:1 coaching sessions to reinforce & apply learnings
Delivery mode:
-
- In person (Canberra)
Overview:
-
- Food plays a vital role in energy, focus, and overall well-being. Participants develop a better understanding of nutrition in a way that suits their needs. Sensory sensitivities, executive functioning differences and personal preferences shape how we approach food. Through interactive discussions, activities and individualised coaching, participants explore practical strategies to build a positive relationship with food, increase independence and make choices that work for them—without rigid rules or pressure.
Employment Pursuit
Inclusions:
-
- 6 x 3hr weekly small group sessions, and
- 6 x 1hr 1:1 coaching sessions to reinforce & apply learnings
Delivery mode:
-
- In person (Canberra) or online
Overview:
-
- Embarking on a job search can be overwhelming; this program provides the skills and confidence needed to navigate the process.
Work Ready
Inclusions:
-
- 8 x 3hr weekly small group sessions, and
- 8 x 1hr 1:1 coaching sessions to reinforce & apply learnings
Delivery mode:
-
- In person (Canberra) or online
Overview:
-
- Tailor-made by experts for the specific purpose of preparing neurodivergent individuals for their working life, the program build confidence and includes individualised self-regulation techniques, the creation of a work-based schedule, and immersion in simulated work activities and scenarios. Three separate themes are used to scaffold learning: My workplace, My wellbeing, and My skills at work.
- By the end of the program, participants have developed their own Neurodiversity Passport to showcase and use as a means of self-advocacy with their current or future employer.
Hospitality
Inclusions:
-
- 4 x 2hr weekly small group sessions, and
- 4 x 1hr 1:1 coaching sessions to reinforce & apply learnings
Delivery mode:
-
- In person (Canberra)
Overview:
-
- Participants learn crucial customer service and teamwork skills while practicing the practical skills necessary for working in a hospitality environment. By the end of the program, participants will be equipped with skills relevant to team-based work roles, customer service roles, and the food service industry.
- Key topics include: introduction to hospitality & customer service, working as part of a team, workplace policies & procedures, handling complaints, self-regulation strategies at work, food safety & cross-contamination, maintaining sanitary workstations, point-of-sale training and basic barista training.
Next Steps
Your EFA journey begins with an initial assessment with one of our Developmental Educators. During this appointment, we will discuss your goals, strengths, support needs and available NDIS funding and determine what approach is right for you.
To book the appointment visit our NDIS Programs page.
