Recognition of Prior Learning and Current Competence

What is RPL?

RPL is an essential component of competency-based training. It focuses on current competency standards gained by individuals through:

Work experience
Life experience
Formal training
Informal training

What is mutual recognition?

As a registered training organisation, B Online Learning Institute applies the national standard of 'mutual recognition' between registered training organisations. This means if you obtained a competency through study with another registered training organisation, either in NSW or interstate, you can apply to have the competency recognised by us.

What are the advantages of RPL?

RPL allows you to complete formal education in a shorter period of time and at less cost.
RPL means that you do not have to repeat or waste time learning what you have already learned.
RPL increases your career and education options through recognised skills and knowledge.
RPL allows for fairer access to studies that you wish to undertake.

Is RPL for me?

Anyone can apply for RPL but not everyone will get credit for their skills and knowledge. A typical successful applicant is someone who has a reasonable amount of experience in the area their course covers. This might mean working in that field. Life skills can earn credits but these must be shown to be relevant to the course.

If you are continuing from secondary school or you have limited work or life experience, you should consider your claim for RPL carefully before applying. If you are a mature age student with relevant experience, your skills are likely to have some value for credit through RPL.

If you have gained qualifications in a course or have a statement of attainment for completed units of a course from another institute or training provider you may gain credits.

Note: If your prior learning is in the same subject (that is, with the same name and code) at another training provider or a simple ‘transfer of credit’, you will not be required to pay any charges.

How much does it cost to apply for RPL?

The cost of an RPL application is the same cost as enrolment in that course. You must be enrolled in a course and have paid the fees for that course before the RPL application can be processed.

Is there help for people with special needs?

Yes. If you are submitting an RPL application and you have special needs, reasonable adjustments may be made in the evaluation procedure. For example if you have a disability, experience difficulties in language or numeracy, or if you are from a non- English speaking background, support staff may be able to provide you with assistance

Can I submit an RPL application for any Unit of Competency?

You may apply for RPL of existing competencies against a course that the Institute is accredited to deliver, regardless of the method used to obtain the competencies.

The course information contains competency standards or learning outcomes, which outline the skills, knowledge and attitudes expected of a person fulfilling a role in the workplace.

You are considered competent when you demonstrate the skills and knowledge specified in the competency standards. Some skills require refreshing after only one to two years (for example, IT); other skills are retained for life (for example, riding a bike), so you should ensure that the skills and knowledge you use as evidence are relevant to your industry today.

Read the information on the units of competency/learning outcomes that you wish to be assessed against to compare them with your own knowledge and skills before deciding whether you want to apply for RPL.

In making an application for RCC/RPL for a unit you need to address each of the Elements and Performance Criteria of the unit.

Match the elements and performance criteria to your previous study and/or work experience, and show how you have already attained the skills outlined in the unit. You may also supply as much supplementary information as possible in support of your RCC/RPL application, for example, course outlines, official certified statements of results, position descriptions if relevant.

What sort of evidence do I need to support my RPL claim?

You need to provide sufficient evidence of your knowledge and skills by submitting relevant documents and/or materials. The integrity of the RPL process cannot be compromised, therefore the onus is on you to supply as much evidence as possible.

Your evidence could consist of any or all of the following:

formal statements of results
examples of work or resources which you have produced
performance appraisal reports
references from current or previous employers
position descriptions/job role
details of formal training, seminars, conferences and workshops you have attended
which are relevant to this RPL application
certificates of participation/achievements/awards/letters of commendation
video tapes, tape recordings and/or photographs of your work activities
specific details of your work and/or participation in projects
written testimonials from managers or colleagues
written validation from your workplace supervisor
documented workplace demonstration

How is my application for RPL assessed?

The process includes an assessment of your skills and knowledge against the elements and performance criteria of the relevant unit. Your application will be assessed against the following six criteria.

Authenticity Do you have evidence of your skills and knowledge? (You can include formal qualifications, position descriptions, references and any other material you might have to support the application. The evidence must be authenticated by the appropriate authority.)
Currency Are the skills and knowledge used in the work force now?
Quality Are the skills and knowledge at a standard appropriate for current requirements?
Relevance Are the skills and knowledge relevant to the particular profession?
Transferability Are the skills and knowledge gained elsewhere relevant to the particular profession?
Validity Can the applicant demonstrate a skill required for the course? (This may be necessary for practical units.)