RPL is the way you receive recognition for your current skills and knowledge, obtained either from having completed in-house training courses, on the job experience or from your life’s experiences.
If RPL process is applicable, there are a number of options from which you can choose, but it all starts with a simple RPL self-assessment process which, once completed, will tell you if RPL is appropriate for you.
The Victoria RPL process is robust and fair and is one that:
- Is a supportive process
- Minimises unnecessary paperwork
- Is interview, observation and targeted evidence driven
- Is candidate empowering
- Generates evidence relevant to the process
The competency decision is based on the following principles:
Principles of assessment: The assessment method must be Fair, Flexible, Valid and Reliable to ensure quality outcomes.
Rules of evidence: Valid, Sufficient, Authentic and Current to provide guidance on the collection of evidence
RPL Self-Evaluation Evidence Guide
Is a guide for both assessors and candidates as to the types of documentation that should be sighted and collected during the RPL process. This guide is given to the Candidate to indicate the sort of evidence the assessor will be seeking in the process. Again, this list is meant to be a guide only and not to exclude any form of evidence, comment or other forms of valid evidence that a Candidate may have that is not listed.
RPL FeesRPL application fees of $200 need to be paid at the time of lodgement of application.
All units for which RPL is granted the fees will be $150 per unit.
THE RPL PROCESS
Step One: Self-Evaluation
Before you decide to apply for RPL you need to assess your current competence for one or several units of competency.
Complete the candidate information and self-evaluation forms provided with as much information of your previous work experience as you can.
This will allow for an initial assessment of your experience and a check to see whether you can demonstrate the required skills and knowledge. You can discuss this with an RPL Assessor if you want.
You must be able to provide evidence against the elements/performance criteria for the relevant unit/s of competency.
It is not enough to simply state that you possess the skills and knowledge required. You must be able to demonstrate competence.
This is your opportunity to provide as much proof as you can of the variety of experience you have had. You should supply examples of your work history if you have any.
Depending on the trade or industry you have worked in, you may or may not have documentary evidence available. This should not deter you from seeking RPL, as your Assessor will work with you throughout the RPL process.
You will also need to supply the contact details of work referees who can confirm your skills in the industry.
By asking your manager/leader to complete their part of your self‑evaluation, they will be providing valuable evidence confirming the work experience, skills and knowledge you have demonstrated in the performance of your work duties.
You will also be provided with a list of suggested evidence that you could use to demonstrate that you are competent in a particular unit or units of competency. This list is a guide only. If you have other suitable evidence to support your claim for RPL then you are encouraged to share this with your Assessor.
If you do not believe that you have any suitable evidence, then you should discuss your options with your Assessor.
Once you have completed the self-evaluation and made the decision that you would like to continue with the RPL process, make an appointment for an interview and enrol for RPL.
Note: It is possible to gain RPL for an entire qualification.
Step Two: Enrolment and interview with the Assessor
An interview with an Assessor who understands your industry will be organised for you. They will review – usually with you – the information and supporting documentation you have provided and match up your skills to the units/subjects in the qualification.
During your RPL interview, your Assessor will discuss with you your self-evaluation and any evidence you have provided.
It is at this point that you will be able to identify any previous work experience and discuss this with your Assessor.
During this conversation, you will be required to answer questions relating to your work experience. This questioning forms part of the assessment, as it will identify your current knowledge and skills regarding the area of industry in which you are applying for recognition.
If you are currently enrolled in a training course relating to this qualification, it is important that you let your Trainer know that you intend to apply for RPL, then nominate the units you have selected for RPL so that the required documentation can be processed and your application can go ahead.
It is at this stage that a decision will be made whether you are able to proceed to the next step or whether you need to undergo gap training.
Step Three: Practical demonstration of your skills
Your Assessor will organise with you and your employer to conduct a practical skills test at your workplace (if appropriate) or other suitable location.
This is your opportunity to demonstrate your level of competence on a practical level. The assessment will focus on the skills required in the work activities which relate to the qualification in which you are applying for recognition.
Your Assessor will identify the skills they want you to demonstrate by asking you to complete certain tasks.
Step Four: Provision of further supporting evidence
Your Assessor will need to confirm your previous work experience with someone (such as your supervisor or employer) who can vouch for your skills over a period of time.
They will contact the referees you have provided as part of the candidate information.
Your Assessor may ask you to give your selected workplace contacts or previous employers the Third Party report to complete. Authentication of these reports by the Assessor would then be required.