Recognition of prior learning (RPL)

You may be exempted from studying certain modules in your TAFE program on the basis of your previous studies or work experience. For more information contact us or visit the HSC/TAFE Credit Transfer site.

For individual students TAFE recognises the skills and knowledge that you may have gained through previous studies, work and life experiences. When you commence your TAFE course, the skills that you have learnt can be taken into consideration. We call this Recognition. Recognition for a unit of competency means you get advanced standing and will not have to study this unit of competency in your present course of enrolment.

Organised learning can occur in the workplace or in an educational institution. Both provide important and valued opportunities for people to learn skills, knowledge and attitudes needed for work. However, these are not the only ways in which people learn. Individuals gain skills and knowledge through a range or work, study, life and other experiences.

What does recognition cover? 

Work experience

If you have been working in an occupation that is equivalent to the TAFE NSW qualification, you probably have developed skills and knowledge that can be assessed for recognition in the course. If you have completed on-the-job training this can also be assessed.

Work experience in other occupations – not directly related to the qualification you are seeking – may be considered. This takes into consideration paid or unpaid work including part time, full time or casual work in both Australia and overseas.

Life experience

This covers a multitude of areas. Many people learn things by working for a community or voluntary organisation such as: church, school, sporting club, kindergarten, bush fire brigade, surf life-saving club or a fund raising organisation. You also learn valuable skills through hobbies, sport, leisure activities etc. Life experience gained through these different areas may be recognised as meeting the recognition requirement.

Education

TAFE NSW credit transfer is the recognition of specified learning where the same or equivalent module has been successfully completed in previous TAFE NSW studies. Speak with your head teacher about the relevance of your qualification. Qualifications from other registered training organisations (RTO) such as schools, colleges, universities, Adult and Community Centres are considered and recognised towards your TAFE NSW course. On-the-job training programs could also be relevant.

You should apply for recognition if you:

• Want existing skills and knowledge recognised to save time and shorten (or eliminate) the length of time required to study to gain a formal qualification

• Have evidence of existing skills and knowledge available, or can prove through a practical demonstration that you can meet the learning outcomes required to perform the task

• Have acquired skills through formal training, and want these recognised for additional training you may be seeking to undertake

• Have undertaken training overseas and want recognition of this training in TAFE NSW