Recognition of Prior Learning Policy

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) is an assessment pathway that acknowledges skills and knowledge you have already gained, regardless of how, when, or where you learned them. This policy describes when RPL is available, how to apply, how we assess your evidence, and how we make the final decision.

It applies to all TalentMed courses that accept RPL, and to every student or prospective student seeking recognition.

We make students aware of the RPL option before enrolment, and we assess every RPL application against the same principles of assessment and rules of evidence as any other assessment. RPL decisions are documented, fair, transparent, consistent, and always maintain the integrity of the training product.

You are not disadvantaged for applying for RPL. If we cannot award full recognition, we explain why in writing and offer alternatives, including gap training where that is appropriate.

We accept RPL applications for the following courses. Availability varies because not every unit suits RPL.

If you hold a completed qualification or Statement of Attainment from another RTO, credit transfer is normally a better pathway than RPL. See the Credit Transfer Policy.

Every piece of evidence you provide must meet the four rules of evidence:

• Valid. The evidence relates directly to the competency being assessed.
• Sufficient. There is enough evidence for the assessor to make a confident judgement.
• Authentic. The evidence is your own original work.
• Current. The evidence reflects your skills and knowledge as they are now.

“Current” usually means within the last three to five years for technical competencies. Older evidence is acceptable if you can show you have continued to use the skill.

A strong RPL portfolio usually combines several types of evidence:

• Work samples. Reports, documentation, projects, or deliverables you have produced.
• Position descriptions and performance reviews. Documents that show the responsibilities you hold and your performance in the role.
• Supervisor or employer references. Signed and dated statements that verify your skills in specific areas.
• Prior qualifications and training records. Authenticated copies of relevant certificates, transcripts, or professional development.
• Professional memberships or licences. Evidence of currency in your field.

You will also sign an authenticity declaration confirming the evidence is your own and accurately represents your experience.

Depending on the units you are applying for, the assessor may use one or more of the following methods:

• Portfolio review. The assessor examines the evidence you submit.
• Competency conversation. A structured interview where the assessor explores how you apply your skills and knowledge.
• Practical demonstration. Performance of a specific task, where it can be assessed remotely.
• Third-party verification. The assessor may contact a supervisor or employer to confirm the evidence.

The mix depends on the unit and the evidence you provide. We tell you upfront which methods will be used.

1. Talk to us. Email enrol@talentmed.edu.au or call 1300 737 781. We will confirm whether RPL is available for the units you are interested in and send you the RPL kit.
2. Complete the application. The RPL kit includes the application form, evidence guide, and declaration.
3. Gather your evidence. Follow the evidence guide for the specific units. Ask us if you are unsure whether something counts.
4. Submit and pay. Lodge your completed application, evidence portfolio, and fees (see below).
5. Assessment. The assessor reviews your portfolio, holds any conversations or demonstrations required, and makes a decision.
6. Outcome. You receive the decision in writing, with feedback.

We aim to complete RPL assessment within 15 business days of receiving a complete application. Complex applications may take longer. We will tell you if that is likely and why.

• RPL application fee: $299 (non-refundable)
• RPL assessment fee: $199 per unit of competency (non-refundable)

Fees are payable at the time of application. Full fee detail in the Fees and Charges Policy.

• Competent. You have demonstrated the unit. It is recorded on your academic record.
• Not yet competent, with gap training. You have demonstrated part of the unit. We identify what is missing and provide gap training or assessment to address it. Additional fees may apply where gap training is substantial.
• Not yet competent. Evidence does not meet the rules of evidence for this unit. You can either enrol in the unit normally, or resubmit with new evidence (the RPL assessment fee applies again).

You can appeal an RPL decision through our complaints and appeals process. Appeals must be lodged within 20 business days of the decision and include the grounds for the appeal and any new evidence.

If disability, chronic illness, or a mental health condition affects how you can gather or present evidence, we make reasonable adjustments. Tell us early. See our Reasonable Adjustment Policy.

RPL assessment decisions are part of our assessment system. They are included in our validation schedule, which checks that RPL judgements are consistent with the training product and with the assessment decisions made for other students. Full approach in the Assessment Policy.

• Credit Transfer Policy
• Assessment Policy
• Fees and Charges Policy
• Reasonable Adjustment Policy
• Complaints and Appeals Policy
• Student Handbook

View the complete list of policies that apply to your enrolment.

RPL enquiries: enrol@talentmed.edu.au or 1300 737 781

This policy is reviewed annually and sooner whenever a training product we deliver changes or new assessment practice requires it.

TalentMed Pty Ltd · RTO 22151 · ABN 29 125 458 808

The specific policies referenced throughout are the authoritative source.

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