Recognition of Prior Learning Policy

Policy

The purpose of this policy is to confirm that all students, potential or actual, of Medicus College qualification courses are provided with full recognition of their current skills and knowledge. We promote acknowledgment of ‘non-traditional’ forms of learning as valid pathways for recognition of competency achievement during the RPL assessment process.

The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process conducted by us is an assessment process, which provides acknowledgement of all skills and knowledge gained through the life experiences, work experience, previous training and formal and informal education of applicants.

Our RPL process examines the evidence within the following key principles:

• Adopting a focus on the competencies held rather than on how, when or where the learning occurred;
• Demonstrated commitment to recognising the prior learning of adults;
• Providing access to the RPL process for all potential students of courses;
• Undertaking RPL processes which are fair to all those involved; and
• Providing adequate support for all potential RPL applicants

The RPL assessment process includes the initial provision of information, support and counselling, formal application, assessment, post-assessment guidance and certification for course students.

All our students are offered RPL at time of the enrolment and can elect to be considered for RPL by selecting the option available during the enrolment process. The special needs of RPL applicants that have been recognised by us will have all necessary and reasonable adjustments (considering such areas as LLN) made during the RPL assessment process where appropriate.

A variety of RPL assessment options will be available for potential applicants to identify whether they have achieved the necessary competencies/learning outcomes to the required standard in the relevant national training program. All assessment mechanisms used are valid, reliable, flexible and fair and conducted in an ethical manner. Applications can be made by completion of the Student Information Kit for RPL and Exemption available online as a component of the enrolment process.

The key objectives of our RPL assessment process are to:

• Minimise duplication of learning, training or skill acquisition;
• Allow the completion of studies in the shortest possible time;
• Provide clear RPL outcomes and access to further learning/training and career development;
• Provide quality advice and support to potential and current applicants;
• Conduct the RPL process only in respect to courses that we are registered to assess;
• Ensure that only fully qualified consultants are involved in the RPL process;
• Document the RPL process;
• Recognise competencies and modules gained through an RPL process conducted at another registered training organisation via the requirements of mutual recognition;
• Ensure that the RPL processes are monitored, evaluated and updated where appropriate;
• Advise all RPL applicants of their right of appeal through the formal process; and
• Ensure fees and charges are fair and competitive with the industry

Process

To apply for RPL with Medicus College an applicant must complete the Application Kit. This kit consists of:

• Part One – Assessors Manual
• Part Two – Candidates Manual
• Part Three – Competency Conversation
• Part Four – Challenge Tests and Observation Recording Forms
• RPL Guide for All Participants – An explanatory guide for all associated personnel provided free of