Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) &
Credit Transfer Policy
Introduction:
- Upholds the integrity and equivalency of qualifications issued,
- Supports efficient learner progression, and
- Aligns with Outcome Standard 1.5 – Recognition of prior learning and credit transfer, promoting seamless transitions and reducing unnecessary duplication of learning.
Scope and Application:
This policy is applicable to all members of FAP First Aid community, including employees, current learners, and prospective learners. It serves as the guiding framework for assessing a learner’s competence through recognition of prior learning (RPL). Additionally, it encompasses the granting of credit for studies completed at an RTO or any other accredited issuing organisation, such as a secondary school or university. Learners who have already completed units of competency for which they are currently enrolled are entitled to credit transfer upon verification.
It is important to note that this policy does not govern other assessment practices within FAP First Aid’s assessment system, nor does it guarantee automatic approval of RPL or credit transfer requests.
Overview:
The core mission of FAP First Aid is to provide high-quality vocational education and training programs to its learners. This policy outlines the conditions under which FAP First Aid will implement its Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Transfer Policy to acknowledge learners’ previous qualifications and experience.
FAP First Aid is committed to consistently and fairly applying this policy across all its programs and for every learner enrolled in college programs.
Policy:
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
FAP First Aid’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Transfer Policy is designed to ensure that all assessments, including RPL, adhere to the assessment requirements of the relevant training package or qualification. Furthermore, it is conducted in accordance with the Principles of Assessment (fairness, flexibility, validity, and reliability) and Rules of Evidence (validity, sufficiency, authenticity, and currency).
FAP First Aid recognises that regardless of the mode of delivery or engagement, all assessments must meet the same high standards. FAP First Aid also acknowledges that, similar to other forms of assessment, RPL assessment must be carried out by qualified assessors who possess current knowledge and expertise in the unit/s being assessed, as well as familiarity with RPL processes.
The level of industry experience required by a learner varies depending on the specific industry. To be eligible for RPL, applicants are generally required to have a minimum of 3-5 years of experience working in the industry. However, this timeframe may be reduced if approved by the CEO of FAP First Aid at the time of application.
Exclusions
Seeking RPL
The Process
Credit Transfer
Credit transfer is a recognition process whereby a learner who has previously completed a unit of competency and received Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) certification is exempted from repeating formal learning and assessment.
Credit transfer (CT) relies on formal evidence such as a Statement of Attainment or qualification and a Statement of Results from an RTO before commencing training with FAP First Aid. Once verified with the issuing RTO, credit is granted. Alternatively, the learner can grant FAP First Aid permission to access their USI Registry information to confirm available credit transfers.
To be awarded credit transfer, the learner must indicate their desire to apply for credit transfer on their enrolment form and submit copies of the relevant Statement of Attainment, qualification, and Statement of Results. All learners must give FAP First Aid permission to complete a verification of AQF certification with the issuing RTO or through the USI Registry before credit transfer is awarded. In cases where verification cannot be obtained from the issuing RTO or the USI Registry, credit transfer will not be granted.
In instances where AQF certification cannot be verified, either due to the closure of the issuing RTO or issues with the USI Registry, learners must contact the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) to obtain confirmation of certification. Charges may apply, and further information can be found at www.ASQA.gov.au.
To safeguard the integrity of the vocational education and training sector, the AQF prescribes strict protocols for the protection of certification documents to be employed by registered training organisations offering nationally recognised training. These protocols necessitate the use of protective measures on all certification documents to minimise fraudulent copying or reproduction. In cases where the issuing RTO confirms to FAP First Aid that it did not award the AQF certification, the application for credit transfer will be denied.