Recognition of Prior Learning
Recognition of Prior Learning, also referred to as RPL, is the formal recognition of a person's current skills and knowledge, no matter how, when or where the learning occurred.
Even if you have never formally studied or trained in a particular area, you may have gained knowledge and skills through your education, work and life experience. RPL suits people who have industry relevant:
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work or trade skills or knowledge
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paid or unpaid work experience
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life experience
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community work experience.
Recognition of Prior Learning could provide you with a full or part qualification, and avoid duplication of training. It could be used to identify what training you may need to undertake to complete a qualification, or could provide a pathway to higher qualifications for people who may not have access to further training.
How to prepare for RPL [PDF 29kb]
RPL Application Form [DOC 283kb]
Benefits
Four steps to RPL
Cost
Benefits
Recognition of Prior Learning can save time in completing a qualification and avoid unnecessary training. It can also provide benefits in other areas, for example:
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improved job security
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re-entry to the workforce
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job promotion
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career change or improvement
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moving from volunteer work to paid employment
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moving on from redundancy or unemployment
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reduced study load
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better planning of future training.
Four steps to Recognition of Prior Learning
1. Applicants should complete the RPL Application Form [DOC 283kb] and consider what evidence they already have that demonstrates the relevant skills and knowledge. Follow the guidelines in How to prepare for RPL [PDF 29kb]. To qualify, applicants must be able to demonstrate that skills are current and meet industry standards. Examples of evidence could include:
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work samples
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practical demonstrations in the workplace
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assessment interviews
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references and support from supervisors or others in the community
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a variety of materials including training certificates, photos of work examples, a resume, performance reviews.
2. Submit your application along with copies of your evidence. You may submit JP certified copies of your evidence, or copies and bring originals to be sighted at your interview. Please do not send original documents.
Send to:
TNQIT RPL Application
PMB 1
Cairns Qld 4870
3. An Assessor will ring you to make an appointment for an interview and will discuss how your skills and knowledge can be 'assessed'. This might involve interviews, observation and questioning, formal trade tests, work samples, third party references or presenting other documentation. Generally a combination of assessment types will be used. An RPL Assessment and Training Plan will be formulated and you will be advised of enrolment and payment procedures.
4. The Assessor will negotiate assessment opportunities and processes with you. The RPL assessment will be conducted and any required training will be negotiated and timetabled. Once assessed, results will be entered and you will be issued with results and/or award as eligible.
Cost
All applicants are encouraged to contact Skilling Solutions Queensland to identify availability of and eligibility for possible funding for RPL.
RPL can prove to be a more cost and time efficient process which enables applicants to reach career goals more quickly.
Each individual applicant is fully assessed against the national course or qualification. This needs to be discussed with the RPL Coordinator when an application is lodged.
Contact Tropical North Queensland Institute of TAFE Email info.tnqit@deta.qld.gov.au or phone 1300 656 959 / (07) 4042 2422 if you have any further queries