Introduction to Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Assessments and Recognition of Current Qualifications

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) may be defined in a number of ways, some more expansive than others. However, all definitions include the key notion that RPL involves the assessment of previously unrecognised skills and knowledge an individual has achieved outside the formal education and training system. RPL assesses this unrecognised learning against the requirements of a qualification, in respect of both entry requirements and outcomes to be achieved. By removing the need for duplication of learning, RPL encourages an individual to continue upgrading their skills and knowledge through structured education and training towards formal qualifications and improved employment outcomes.

The Certificate III in Financial Services and the Certificate IV in Financial Services (Bookkeeping) are qualifications that are recognised by the Financial Services industry to cover various roles within this field. Working in the Financial Services industry is extremely rewarding with many opportunities in various positions within an organisation. These may include a bookkeeper, small business consultant, payroll officer, accounts payable/receiverable officer or an office administration manager. These roles have many responsibilities and are considered important within the organisational network. They form part of a team to ensure the successful running of a business.

The Certificate III in Financial Services is made of 4 compulsory core units and 9 electives, all of which must be completed - a total of 13 units of competency.

The Certificate IV in Financial Services (Bookkeeping) is made of 4 compulsory core units, 5 compulsory sectoral core units and 2 electives, all of which must be completed - a total of 13 units of competency plus one pre-requisite unit.

To gain competency in the compulsory units of the certificate you need to be able to demonstrate that you currently:

• Have a sound working knowledge of relevant legislation;

• Have a sound working knowledge of codes of practice for the Financial Services industry;

• Understand and can implement Occupational Health and Safety procedures;

• Can communicate effectively and efficiently to a variety of audiences;

• Have a sound knowledge of organisational and industry policy and procedures;

• Have the ability to read data and input accurately;

• Can operate an accounting system to process transactions

What is RPL?

“Recognition of prior learning, also referred to as RPL or recognition of current competencies, 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, training, work and life experience.”                                                                                                         Source: DETA Qld, 2006

RPL is an assessment process that assesses the individual's non-formal and informal learning to determine the extent to which that individual has achieved the required learning outcomes, competency outcomes, or standards for entry to, and/or partial or total completion of, a qualification.

RPL is about recognising existing learning outcomes, rather than how, when or where the learning occurred.  For example, if you are a Financial Services student, and you have already worked in that field, you will know some of the content of the course. RPL is a way of getting credit for this learning, which may reduce the amount of time you spend studying. RPL gives you credit for your life skills – skills and knowledge you have acquired at work, home or through clubs and hobbies.

RPL assessment processes

In order to recognise prior learning it is necessary to:

• Compare the informal or non-formal learning the individual has achieved against the learning outcomes or performance criteria of the course or qualification for which the student is using as a basis for seeking entry or the award of credit, and

• Determine appropriate evidence to support the claim of prior learning.

The processes used to assess RPL applications may take the following forms, which are not mutually exclusive:

1. Participation in exactly the same or modified versions of the assessment unit (i.e. recognition of a current competency);

2. Assessment based on a portfolio of evidence;

3. Direct observation of demonstration of skill or competence;

4. Reflective papers, journals or portfolios that relate past learning to the learning or competency outcomes of the current course or qualification;

5. Provision of examples of the student's work drawn from the workplace, social, community or other setting in which the student applies their learning, skill or competence;

6. Testimonials of learning, skill or competence; and combinations of any of the above.

Steps in the RPL process

Step 1 – Provide information of your skills and experience

Complete the RPL questionnaire and provide as much information of your previous experience in the financial services and bookkeeping industries as you can. This is your first opportunity (but not the last) to provide proof of your variety of experience in the industry. Here you can supply examples of your work history which could include:

General employment documents

• detailed CV or work history

• position descriptions

• certificates/results of assessment

• details of in house courses, workshops, seminars, orientation or induction sessions

• references/letters from previous employers/supervisors

Workplace documents (NB: please block out any confidential client information)

• task sheets / job sheets

• documents you have produced that show you can use software eg. letters, memos, spreadsheets

• copies of equipment maintenance registers you have completed (eg. organising printer repairs and service, equipment log books)

• financial reports and period-end financial statements you have prepared

• taxation documents and reconciliations you have completed

• working papers for operational budgets you have prepared

• asset and inventory records you have maintained

• file notes or memos showing where you have provided advice in a legal contex

• any other documentation that may demonstrate industry experience

Depending on the industry you have worked in, you may or may not have documentary evidence available. This should not deter you from seeking RPL as the Assessor will work with you during the RPL process.

You will also need to supply contact details of two work referees who can confirm your skills in the industry.

Step 2 – Conversation with Assessor

An assessor will review the information you have provided (usually with you) and begin to match up your skills to the units/subjects in the qualification. At this point, you will have the opportunity to discuss and identify your previous experience with the assessor who will understand your industry experience and conduct a competency conversation with you. You will be required to answer financial services industry related questions to identify your current skills.

If you are not located in the same city as your assessor this conversation will take place over the telephone.

Step 3 – Practical demonstration of your skills

If appropriate and possible the assessor will conduct a practical skills test at your workplace or at another suitable venue. This, again, is an opportunity to demonstrate your level of competence. This assessment will be focussed on skills that are required in the qualification. Your assessor will identify the skills that he/she will want you to demonstrate.

Further steps

After you have completed the above steps, your assessor will give you information about the skills that have been recognised and whether you have gained the full qualification. If you do have skill gaps, these may be addressed through flexible training and specific assessments.

Why should I apply for RPL?

1. RPL may allow you to complete the course in a shorter period of time and at a lesser cost.
2. RPL means that you do not need to spend time being taught what you have already learned.

Is RPL for me?

Anyone can apply for RPL however not all applications are successful. Successful applicants generally have a reasonable amount of experience in the area their course covers. This usually means having worked in that field, however relevant life skills (eg from a hobby or club membership) may also attract credit.

If you are coming to the Institute course from high school or you have limited work or life experience, you should carefully consider whether you have sufficient existing skills to make an RPL application worthwhile. If you are a mature age student with relevant experience, your skills are likely to have some value for credit through RPL.

How much does it cost to apply for RPL?

Provided that you supply sufficient evidence with your application to justify assessment by RPL there will be a flat charge for the whole qualification (which can be found on the RPL booking page at http://www.biau.com.au/products.asp?cat=36#BI-595) which will include the review of your application, your assessment interview and the assessment questions to cover the gaps in your knowledge.

In the event that your application is rejected for insufficient evidence you can either elect for the fee to go towards the cost of the full course (without penalty) or you can withdraw your application. In which case an administration fee of $25% will be charged and the balance of 75% refunded.

If you decide to take the full course but also ask for certain criteria (such as the recognition of a current competency) to be considered for RPL there will be no additional charge – or refund – to your full course fee.

How long will my RPL application take to be processed?

If you submit sufficient evidence, RPL applications are usually assessed within a month. You will receive notification via email, advising

1. If your application has been successful

2. If successful a suggested date and time for an interview (which will be by telephone if an assessor does not live close to you)

3. An indication with regard to gap training and assessments

How do I check my skills against the course information?

You should first read through the course outlines on our website (www.biau.com.au) and determine if you can demonstrate or provide evidence that you have the skills and knowledge in the areas covered in the units.

Then you should read the detailed information on the units and the competency/learning outcomes that you wish to be assessed against, and then compare them with your own knowledge and skills before deciding whether you want to apply for RPL. This detailed information can be found by searching on the unit code at the National Training Information Service web site at http://www.ntis.gov.au/Default.aspx?find.  The National Training Information Service (NTIS) is a database on vocational education and training in Australia. NTIS is the official national register of information on Training Packages, Qualifications, Courses, Units of Competency and Registered Training Organisations (RTOs).

Once you have completed your electronic application for RPL with BIA (at http://www.biau.com.au/products.asp?cat=36#BI-595) we will Email you an RPL kit and application form which contains details of all of the competency units including the elements, performance criteria, skills and knowledge required for all of the units.

Available support

The RPL Process is designed to be as fair, flexible and supportive as possible. If at any time throughout the application process you require additional information or clarification, please contact your trainer/assessor at first instance, or if the matter cannot be answered/resolved, the Director, BIA.

Who can apply for Recognition of Prior Learning?

Anyone who believes they have the skills and knowledge identified in the outcomes of a unit is encouraged to apply for RPL. The following factors may help you in deciding whether an application will be successful.

• Do you have the underpinning knowledge required in the unit?

• Can you demonstrate the skills required in the unit?

• Can you apply the knowledge and skills in a work situation?

• Can you apply the knowledge and skills in a range of work situations?

• Are your knowledge and skills current?

• Can you provide evidence of your skills and knowledge?

Guidelines for supplying evidence

Evidence plays a critical role in the Recogn