What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?

Recognition of Prior Learning (or RPL) is a legitimate part of the VET sector and the Australian education system.  

Performed well, it recognises skills built from experience and provides a robust framework to ensure people can have their skills recognised.  

Individual competency-based assessment must be undertaken by qualified assessors including to identify training required to fill gaps in a person’s knowledge and skills to meet the requirements specified in a training package.
 

What appropriate RPL looks like

RPL assesses the competency/s of an individual that may have been acquired through formal, non-formal and informal learning to determine the extent to which that individual meets the requirements specified in the training package or VET accredited courses.

• formal learning refers to learning that takes place through a structured program of instruction and is linked to the attainment of an AQF qualification or statement of attainment (for example, a certificate, diploma or university degree);
• non-formal learning refers to learning that takes place through a structured program of instruction, but does not lead to the attainment of an AQF qualification or statement of attainment (for example, in-house professional development programs conducted by a business); and
• informal learning refers to learning that results through experience of work-related, social, family, hobby or leisure activities (for example the acquisition of interpersonal skills developed through several years as a sales representative).