Navigating the professional world of trades can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re a tiler or a painter, you might question how to formalise those skills.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) bridges the gap, transforming your hands-on experience into nationally recognised qualifications.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about RPL, its benefits, and how organisations like Gimbal Training can assist in the process.

What is RPL?

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a structured process that evaluates your existing industry skills, knowledge, and work experience against the standards required for formal qualifications in Australia.

Essentially, it’s a way to validate your competence without needing to start from scratch in training programs.

By leveraging RPL, tradespeople can fast-track their way to qualifications that align with their trade or profession.

This method acknowledges that skills can be developed in various settings, whether through informal training, work experience, or self-directed learning.

Why Get Qualified?

Here’s why turning your trade experience into qualifications is a game-changer for your career:

1. Enhance Career Opportunities

A nationally recognised trade certificate opens doors to better job opportunities. Many employers require formal qualifications as a baseline for hiring, making accreditation essential in competitive industries like construction and engineering.

2. Boost Your Confidence

There’s unparalleled satisfaction in holding a qualification that recognises your years of hard work. It’s a tangible acknowledgment of your expertise.

3. Meet Licensing Requirements

Several trades in Australia mandate specific licences to work legally. An accredited qualification is often the first step in obtaining your trade licence.

4. Save Time and Money

Unlike traditional education pathways, the RPL process allows you to bypass redundant training, saving both time and money.

5. Stay Competitive

Having recognised qualifications gives you a competitive edge, demonstrating your commitment to maintaining high professional standards.

The RPL Process with Gimbal Training

Gimbal Training simplifies the RPL process into six clear steps. Here’s how it works:

Step 1. Enquiry

Get started by contacting Gimbal’s team to determine if you’re eligible for RPL. This involves an initial consultation to understand your goals and background.

Step 2. Pre-Enrolment

You’ll be guided through collecting evidence of your skills. This might include workplace documents, photos, videos, and references from your past employers.

Step 3. Enrolment

Upon enrolment, you’ll complete a knowledge test and participate in interviews with qualified assessors. This step ensures a thorough evaluation of your technical expertise.

Step 4. Gap Training (if required)

If your assessor identifies skill gaps, you’ll be provided with targeted training to address those areas, ensuring you meet all the requirements to be qualified.

Step 5. Assessment Outcome

The assessor compiles a comprehensive report on your skills and evidence, which is then reviewed for approval.

Step 6. Final Approval

Upon approval, you’ll receive your nationally recognised qualification, opening up new professional pathways!

Skill Assessments Explained

A skill assessment is a critical part of the RPL process. It involves a formal evaluation conducted by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), like Gimbal Training.

This process ensures your skills, qualifications, and experiences meet Australian industry standards.

For example, skill assessments are often required for individuals seeking employment under Australian apprenticeship pathways, Gimbal Training ensures these assessments are streamlined and stress-free.

Apprenticeship Training for Practical Knowledge

While RPL focuses on recognising existing skills, apprenticeship training builds a foundation of knowledge for individuals new to a trade.

With a mix of on-the-job and online-based learning, apprenticeships provide hands-on experience under the guidance of seasoned professionals.

Gimbal Training facilitates various construction and engineering apprenticeships and trade programs aimed at upskilling workers. These programs ensure you’re equipped with both the theory and practical expertise to excel in your chosen field.

Benefits of Apprenticeship Pathways

• Practical Skills: Gain hands-on experience with industry tools and techniques.
• Structured Learning: Combine technical training with workplace application.
• Industry Connections: Build relationships with trade mentors and professionals.

Trade Licensing with RPL

Why is a trade licence so important?

A trade licence allows you to legally work in your field and gives clients peace of mind knowing their tradesperson is qualified. With Gimbal Training, you can seamlessly combine RPL with courses designed to meet licensing requirements.

Keep in mind that licensing requirements differ depending on your trade and state, so consulting with an expert is always a good idea.

Turning Experience Into Opportunity

With demand for skilled tradespeople growing rapidly in Australia, there’s never been a better time to formalise your skills. Whether you’re looking to advance your career, secure a licence, or simply gain recognition for what you already know, RPL is a path worth exploring.

At Gimbal Training, we’re here to make the process straightforward and stress-free. From skill assessments to apprenticeships, we have the tools and resources to help you achieve your goals.

Curious about how RPL can transform your career? Contact Gimbal Training today for a free consultation.

Start your pathway to qualifications, recognition, and a brighter professional future.