Skilled tradespeople know the value of hands-on experience. But in a competitive landscape, proving your expertise on paper is often as important as demonstrating it in practice.
This is where Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) comes in.
For freelancers and contractors in the trades, RPL can be a game-changing tool. It transforms your hard-earned experience into a nationally recognised qualification, opening new doors for career growth, job security, and credibility.
At Gimbal Group, we specialise in providing trade recognition services in Australia, helping professionals like you turn experience into advancement.
Let’s explore the benefits of RPL and how it can elevate your trade career.
What is RPL? And Why is it Important for Tradespeople?
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process that assesses your existing skills, knowledge, and work experience to determine if they meet the standards required for a formal qualification.
For tradesmen and women, RPL is especially valuable because it acknowledges what you’ve already learned on the job. Instead of requiring you to spend years in the classroom, you can gain your qualifications and demonstrate your proficiency without needing to start from scratch.
At Gimbal Group, we’ve been helping tradespeople across Australia achieve recognised qualifications since 2006. Whether you’re working in construction, engineering, or beyond, we make the process as smooth as possible so you can quickly get the credentials to match your expertise.
The Benefits of RPL for Freelancers and Contractors
1. Validate Your Expertise with a Nationally Recognised Certificate
Freelancers and contractors often face skepticism when pitching their services. RPL helps build trust and credibility by giving you an official qualification that backs up your skills. With a nationally recognised qualification, potential clients or employers can see your professionalism immediately.
This is particularly important in Australia’s trade industries, where regulations and standards are becoming stricter. Whether you’re a builder, plumber, or mechanic, proving you meet national standards through RPL can be a significant advantage.
2. Enhance Job Security and Career Advancement
A formal qualification doesn’t just validate your skills; it opens up doors for new opportunities. Tradespeople with qualifications often find it easier to secure contracts, qualify for specialised positions, or work with larger, reputable companies.
Additionally, having the credentials to back up your expertise makes you a safer choice for clients, offering some job security in an increasingly competitive market.
3. Meet Trade Licensing Requirements
Many trades in Australia require a licence to operate legally. Without one, you may miss bigger projects or face legal hurdles. RPL ensures you meet the qualification criteria needed for licensing, helping you stay compliant and competitive.
And don’t forget, a licence isn’t just a bureaucratic requirement. It’s also a powerful marketing tool that assures your clients you’re legitimate, qualified, and held to industry standards.
How to Obtain RPL with Gimbal Training
Getting an RPL completed by the Gimbal Group is straightforward and efficient, designed to value your time while focusing on results. Here’s how it works:
Step 1. Gather Evidence of Your Skills
To start, you’ll need to provide evidence of your trade experience. This could include photos of your completed projects, formal references, videos of your work, or workplace documents. The more thorough your evidence, the smoother and quicker the process.
Step 2: Interview with trainer
Once you have submitted all of the required evidence for your RPL application, the next step in the process will be a technical interview. This interview will be conducted by your trainer, who will assess your skills and knowledge in the relevant trade or field. During the interview, your trainer will ask you a series of questions and may also request that you demonstrate certain tasks or concepts to confirm your proficiency and understanding of the skills you have learned throughout your training.
The technical interview serves as an important opportunity for your trainer to evaluate your ability to apply the skills you’ve gained in real-world scenarios. It’s not just about answering questions correctly—it’s about showcasing your competence and confidence in performing the tasks associated with your trade. This interview will allow your trainer to identify any areas where you might need further development, as well as to ensure that you’re fully prepared to take on the responsibilities of your chosen profession.
Step 3. Gap Training (if Needed)
If any gaps in your knowledge or skills are identified during the assessment, we’ll provide targeted training to address them. This ensures you meet all the criteria required for your desired qualification.
Step 4. Receive Your Qualification
Once the assessment is completed, and any additional training is finalised, you’ll receive your nationally recognised qualification. With this in hand, you’ll have proof of your skills and knowledge that can be shared with clients, employers, and licensing bodies.
No matter where you’re located in Australia, Gimbal Construction and Gimbal Engineering provide comprehensive services to support your RPL process and career growth.
Apprenticeships vs. RPL: Which is Right for You?
When deciding between starting an apprenticeship or pursuing RPL, it depends on your experience level and career goals.
Choose an Apprenticeship If…
- You’re new to the trade and want to gain hands-on experience.
- You prefer a structured blend of on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
- You’re eager to work under the supervision of skilled tradespeople to develop expertise.
At Gimbal Group, we offer apprenticeship programs that give you a well-rounded education, ensuring you enter the workforce with confidence and skill.
Choose RPL If…
- You already have significant work experience in your trade.
- You want to fast-track the process to get formally qualified.
- You need a qualification for licensing or compliance purposes.
RPL is perfect for those already excelling in their field and seeking official recognition of their expertise.
Why Choose Gimbal Group?
At Gimbal Group, we’re committed to helping tradespeople turn experience into opportunity. Our streamlined RPL process, combined with our expertise in skills assessments and apprenticeships, makes us the ideal partner for your career development.
With over 15 years of experience, we’ve built a reputation for delivering results efficiently and professionally. Whether you’re looking to enhance your career prospects or meet licensing requirements, Gimbal Group is here to help.
Start Your Career Growth Journey Today!
Recognition of Prior Learning isn’t just a process; it’s the key to unlocking your full potential as a tradesperson. By validating your skills, enhancing your career opportunities, and complying with industry standards, RPL ensures you’re always ahead of the game.
Take the first step toward your nationally recognised qualification by contacting Gimbal Group today. Our friendly team is here to guide you through every step of the process to help you reach your goals faster.
