Category; Teaching and Learning

Date of approval; Feb 2009

Purpose
This procedure explains the process of applying for and granting Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). [Standard 8.2 (a)] and the National Code of Practice for Registration Authorities and Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students [Codes 31, 32 and 33]
Responsibility
The Training Manager is responsible for the implementation of this procedure and to ensure that staff and students are aware of its application and that staff implement its requirements
Requirements
Recognition of Prior Learning must be structured to minimize the cost and time to applicants whilst retaining the integrity required by the AQTF to recognize competencies in accordance with the requirements of Training Packages or Curriculum documents.

The provider must ensure that any applicant for Recognition of Prior Learning is provided with

• Information about the competencies and performance criteria relevant to their Recognition of Prior Learning application
• Adequate information and support to enable them to gather reliable evidence of competency
• Opportunities to obtain feedback on the evidence proposed prior to finalisation of the application
  

Competencies for which RPL is being requested may have been developed through formal education and training, through work experience or training or through life experiences.
A written statement from an appropriate supervisory person is required to confirm authorship of any work submitted.
It is accepted that RPL is an assessment of an individual’s current knowledge, skills and attitudes even though the evidence produced in support of the claim for recognition may be drawn from the past. It is up to the RPL assessor to judge whether the evidence produced demonstrates current knowledge, skills and attitudes
Students who are eligible for credit transfer must not be required to undertake a RPL process. Refer to the Credit Transfer and Mutual Recognition procedure

Definitions
Recognition of Prior Learning - Recognition of Prior Learning is the formal acknowledgement of skills, knowledge and attitudes held as a result of education and training, work experience and/or life experience.

Method
RPL applications are made using the application form.
The RPL application form should be completed and forwarded to the Training Manager together with the required fee.
A copy of the application form is placed on the student file.
The provider will provide RPL applicant’s access to the relevant Units or Modules prior to the application being completed.
The course administrator, the counsellor, teaching staff or the Training Manager will give applicants advice on completing the RPL application form and gathering reliable evidence.
Teaching staff will assess completed RPL applications and students advised promptly of the decision. Further information or an interview with the student may be required before evaluation of the application is completed.
The completed RPL record must be signed by the student, assessor and Training Manager
RPL application documentation, assessment processes and outcomes are placed in the student file.
Granting of RPL must be recorded as a module outcome in the students file.
Provider appeal procedures apply
After RPL is granted a student’s course schedule must be reviewed and modified to ensure a full time load and details of this placed on the student’s file.
Any course duration reduction as a result of RPL granted to students must be indicated on the electronic Confirmation of Enrolment if granted prior to the issue of a visa or on PRISMS if granted after the issue of a visa.

References

• Assessment Policy
• Assessment Procedures
• CRICOS Record Keeping Procedure (if applicable)