Recognition of Prior Learning, RPL

What is Recognition of Prior Learning?

RPL involves assessing the skills and knowledge an individual has acquired outside the formal education and training system. It compares this unrecognised learning to the requirements of a specific unit of competency, considering both entry requirements and desired outcomes. RPL eliminates the need for duplicating learning, encouraging individuals to continue their skill development through structured education and training, leading to formal qualifications and improved employment prospects.

If you believe you meet all the requirements of a unit of competency, you should discuss this with your trainer and submit an application for RPL. Participants seeking recognition of prior learning gather evidence to demonstrate their competency in the unit/s and an assessor will then determine if RPL can be granted.

How to apply for RPL

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessment is a rigorous process that is conducted to the same standard as undertaking summative assessment for accredited programs of study. Pursuing RPL requires the candidate to provide specific and relevant evidence that their existing skills and knowledge align with the requirements of each training product.

RPL assessment will be undertaken by a qualified training and assessor with expertise in the subject, content and/or skills area, as well as knowledge of and expertise in RPL assessment.

The following process is designed to recognise prior learning regardless of how, when and where it was acquired, provided the learning is relevant to the learning outcomes in the qualification.

Application Form

To initiate the RPL process, candidates should complete the RPL Application Form. This form is the primary document for providing personal information and details about your previous skills, experience, and qualifications.

Step 01

Self Assessment

In the second step of the RPL process, candidates will be provided with a self-assessment checklist tailored to the unit of competency for which they are applying for RPL. This checklist serves as a tool to evaluate their proficiency in the required competencies based on their past experiences.

Step 02

Third-Party Evidence or Report

In Step 3 of the RPL process, the assessor may seek third-party evidence by contacting the candidate’s supervisor or manager. This step aims to gather additional information and perspectives to assess the candidate’s skills and knowledge related to the specific unit of competency being claimed for RPL.

Step 03

Competency Conversation

During Step 4 of the RPL process, candidates will communicate with the assessor and the conversation takes the form of an interview where the assessor asks questions specifically related to the unit of competency for which the candidate is seeking RPL. In responding to the assessor’s questions, the candidate must draw upon their past experiences, skills, and qualifications to provide comprehensive answers. Supporting these answers with multiple examples or instances that demonstrate their competence in the given unit is important. The assessor may also request additional evidence not initially included in the application but relevant to the candidate’s responses.

Step 04

Practical Demonstration & Observation

In Step 5 of the RPL process, candidates will undergo a practical demonstration to assess their competency. The assessor will assign a specific task based on the competency conversation (Step 4) and areas where further evidence or clarification is required. It is important to note that candidates are not required to complete all practical tasks but rather focus on the task highlighted by the assessor. The purpose of the practical demonstration is to evaluate the candidate’s skills and knowledge in the designated area.

Step 05

Unit Mapping

In Step 6 of the RPL process, the assessor will use the mapping document to guide the assessment. The mapping document serves as a tool for the assessor to identify the skills, knowledge, and performance criteria that will be assessed during the RPL process. The assessor will carefully compile the mapping document, clearly indicating each criterion and the tasks or activities relevant to each criterion. This ensures a direct connection between the assessment criteria and the tasks that will be evaluated. The mapping document will be utilised by the assessor to identify areas where the candidate did not provide the desired evidence or where there are gaps in their competency claim. These areas will be highlighted in the document, providing clear guidance to the assessor on where the candidate needs to focus their efforts to gather additional evidence.

Step 06

Complete RPL Application Form

If you believe you meet all the requirements of a unit of competency, you should complete the RPL application form. A trainer and assessor will be in contact with you. If you have completed this form, please email it to admin@risenstarcollege.edu.au

If you’ve completed a nationally recognised qualification or units of competency at another Australian RTO, you may also be eligible for Credit Transfer. This allows you to transfer credit for identical or equivalent units into your new course. For both RPL and credit transfer, contact admin@risenstarcollege.edu.au