Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process which assesses an individual’s non-formal and informal learning, experience and competencies with the aim of facilitating access to a particular program of study. Alternatively, RPL is also used to determine whether an individual can be exempted from a certain module of training as a part of a course, on the grounds of learning he/she might have already attained.

In Australia, RPL is specifically defined as recognition of skills and knowledge acquired from any other institution than the Australian University or a TAFE college, any Registered Training Organization (RTO).

The Assessed Factors
Here, let’s take a closer look at the definition and understand the specific abilities that RPL will assess. At RPL ME, we will first take into account the following:

• Your skills learned through informal/non-formal learning, certified as well as non-certified
• Your vocational experience
• Your competencies
• Your specific previous work experience
• Life experience and skills
• Your skills acquired through work, community and leisure activities

We will then assess whether your existing abilities and training match up to the requirements for the particular nationally recognized qualification without undergoing any formal study.

Just so that you don’t get daunted, RPL is also referred to by a series of other terms such as:

• Accreditation of prior learning (APL)
• Accreditation of prior experiential learning (APEL)
• Prior learning assessment, recognition of skills (PLAR)
• Recognition of Current Competencies (RCC)

The AIM
We, at RPL ME guide you to have a credible evaluation of your current competencies so that there is no duplication of your current training with the skills or learning you might already possess. This implies that if you are taking a course or training which necessitates that you learn a skill you already have, you can save time and resources by getting that skill evaluated through RPL and fulfilling your course’s requirement.