No Time for TAFE - The Free TAFE System Failing Blue Collar Workers
With multiple fee-free TAFE courses available to eligible students, many people can now gain further qualifications and skills without the associated costs. This is great for school leavers and those re-entering the workforce after long term unemployment, however for those working full time, and juggling home commitments, it can be far too rigid.
In addition to a limited selection of courses that will now fill up twice as fast under the free TAFE scheme, TAFE can fall flat when it comes to offering online classes – which are essential for those with prior commitments during the day.
If you are a blue-collar worker looking to change fields, considering TAFE’s shortcomings, private online RTO’s (registered training organisations) could be a better solution. They offer more flexible hours and the option to fast track certifications to help turn blue collars white.
Why an RPL Assessment May Be Better
A RPL assessment gives you the opportunity to translate formally and informally learned skills into nationally recognised qualifications. It can also give you credits towards other training units, allowing you to finish the course faster.
There are four steps towards completing the assessment:
1. Book the Assessment
You can take a test to find out whether you would be a suitable candidate to complete an RPL skills assessment for free before going through with the actual assessment itself.
2. Attend the Consultation
You will then meet with an expert on RPL to discuss the course, documentation, and the criteria you need to meet.
3. Gather Supporting Evidence
Now you get to document all your evidence of skills in a portfolio. You will receive instruction about what kinds of evidence to collect and how to organise it.
4. Submit the Documentation
Get your portfolio checked over by the trainer assigned to you and then submit – simple as that!
Completing the assessment and being approved will leave you with an RPL certificate so you can start workplace training to build those white-collar skills.
Going through a private online RTO is not only faster, more flexible, and more versatile, but it allows you to gain the same recognition as a regular TAFE course without the hassle and waste of time going over skills you’ve long since mastered. If you’re looking to hang up the blue collar in favour of white, going through an RTO to gain a RPL certificate might be the best path for you.
