Fast-tracked RPL program designed for aged care

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process that provides individuals with the opportunity to receive credit for formal and non-formal learning they’ve undertaken. While we work, and throughout our day-to-day experiences, we learn an immense amount about the vocation we’re in or surrounded by. TAFE Queensland's RPL process takes into account all the relevant skills, knowledge, and experience an individual has gained.

In response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care, TAFE Queensland has created a unique offer to employers in the aged care sector—fast tracked RPL for staff in the Certificate III in Individual Support (CHC33015).

TAFE Queensland’s Community Services Product Lead and subject matter expert, Bev Charnley, said that supporting the aged care sector attract, retain and acknowledge existing talent was one of the organisation’s priorities.

“We know that employers in the aged care sector need to recruit new talent into the workforce, research tells us that there is high demand now, but there is also expected growth over the five years," said Bev.

“Training new workers is important but there’s also a wealth of unrecognised experience, skills and potential in the sector. By recognising and formalising this experience, we create stronger advocates for formal training who can pass on more structured support to new starters. Recognition is also immensely important for morale and confidence."

“Our RPL process doesn’t just recognise existing knowledge and experience, it identifies gaps in knowledge, and we complete gap training plans for individuals to gain the skills they are missing."

“Our team – dedicated to building the skills of our aged care workforce – are experts at what they do, and can offer additional specialist training in areas like dementia, palliative care, and trauma care/wounds.

“Because our loved ones mean so much to us, it’s important that the people delivering our aged care services are well-trained and highly skilled,” she concluded.

Head of commercial business Robert Petherbridge said the process was customised with small and large employers in mind.

“Our approach is unique. We’ve created a centralised, key account management process to support individuals through the entire process from enrolment to completion. We ensure they know what they need to provide as evidence, and we work with them on a training plan. The entire process is customised to aged care employers," he explained.

“We understand the complex requirements of being able to cater to the differing care and support needs and preferences of individuals, and differences in identity and culture."

“Our solutions bring together the best training content, technology and delivery methods to suit employers."

“This program is suitable for aged care, but can also be replicated for other industries looking to recognise and upskill their existing workers,” said Robert.