What is Recognition?

Recognition is the process by which you can demonstrate whether or not you already possess the skills or competencies taught in a particular module, unit of competence or course. By offering you this process, TAFE NSW, like many employers is recognising that you may have gained many skills on the job or in your life experience, and not necessarily through formal training. If you already have the skills and knowledge that a course of study would teach you, then you would not have to repeat that part of the course. You could finish your course in a shorter period of time. You do not have to relearn the skills you already have.

While Chris was enrolling in a Management course, he told the enrolling officer he would probably find the basic computer module "pretty easy" because he had been teaching his kids how to use their new computer and software at home. The officer suggested he apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Chris used his informal teaching experience as part of his evidence in his RPL application and was given advanced standing for the module 'Computer Operations' saving him 15 hours of study.

Recognition covers your:-

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

IMPORTANT: The skills and knowledge that you have obtained in a prior experience must be current, i.e. you can still do today what you learned yesterday/last year etc.