Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Recognition of Prior Learning as a Volunteer Coordinator/Manager

Who it’s for

We encourage volunteer leaders to consider RPL if they already have experience in study, training or extensive industry exposure.

The criteria for RPL can include:

• You’re currently working or volunteering in a Volunteer Involving Organisation.
• You have at least 2 years’ experience working or volunteering as a coordinator of volunteers.
• You’ve worked directly in the areas the accredited training relates to, or have experience that can be utilised for generic or transferable skills.
• You have knowledge of, networks in, or insights into current issues faced by the sector.
• You have an understanding of both the large and small issues relevant to your area of work. 
• You are responsible for supervision of volunteers and staff, or co-ordinating services and programs. 
• You have attended relevant short courses and/or workshops. 
• You have completed relevant training, qualifications or certifications.
• You have workplace or industry support necessary to complete the RPL process. 

Requirements:

• Access to workplace evidence to support skills and knowledge.
• Access to a computer with high-speed internet to access the e-learning materials, coupled with intermediate computer skills.
• Ability to work on the RPL application independently, including searching, collating and administration, as well as a good level of organisation.

Please note, additional entry requirements apply depending on the units of competency selected.

How it works

Benefits

RPL can help you to:

• Improve your job security
• Re-enter the workforce
• Support a job promotion
• Reduce your study load
• Enhance your career development
• It can provide an entry point to further education.

Process

1. Complete the self-assessment questionnaire to conduct the self-skills audit, and check knowledge and experience against requirements.
2. Complete RPL application.  
3. Complete the enrolment and consent form online. 
4. Submit proof of identification, as well as evidence of NSW Smart and Skilled eligibility, if applicable.  
5. Gather documentation as per the RPL evidence guide.
6. Save evidence by unit and with files named to show how they match the evidence required.  
7. Submit a portfolio of evidence for each Unit of Competency for which RPL is applied for.  
8. Complete a competency questionnaire or knowledge assessment.  
9. Competency questionnaire is undertaken with a workplace supervisor. 
10. Trainer assesses and provides feedback. 
11. Submit any additional information required and submit documentation.
12. Evidence is assessed and RPL granted if evidence shows skills and knowledge required by the unit are met.

Delivery 

RPL is an assessment-only method to demonstrate competency and, if successful, obtain accreditation.

Schedule and Duration 

The RPL procedure is an application process. The unit or units can be undertaken at your own pace, but it is expected that RPL for one unit of competency should be completed in two months.

Fees 

Standard Fees 

The standard fee for RPL is 75% of the course fee for all qualifications.  

For Example, for the Certificate IV in Coordination of Volunteer Programs CHC44015:

Become a member of The Centre for Volunteering 

NSW Smart and Skilled Fees  

NSW Smart and Skilled Eligibility requirements  – evidence required: 

• Over 15 years of age 

• Live or work in New South Wales 

• No longer in school 

• Australian citizen or permanent resident, humanitarian visa holder or New Zealand citizen.

First Smart and Skilled qualification 50% of student fee: $775 (if all units RPL).

Second or further Smart and Skilled qualifications 50% of student fee: $910 (if all units RPL)  

You can complete some units as Training and Assessment, and some as RPL.  

NB: Until the portfolio of evidence has been assessed, it is not possible to confirm that a learner will be able to obtain Recognition of Prior Learning.  

For further information

Please call us on 0466 778914 or email training@volunteering.com.au to find out more or to discuss your situation.