Why must I document the review process?
RTOs are bound by the standards as set out by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) or the AQTF and will need to have policies and procedures in place which reflect the relevant standards. (Refer to the glossary for a further description of these terms.)
The Standards for NVR RTOs state:
SNR 4 The applicant must have strategies in place to provide quality training and assessment across all of its operations as follows:
4.1 The applicant has a defined continuous improvement strategy that requires the collection and analysis of data. The strategy includes implementation of continuous improvement activities for training and assessment.
4.5 The applicant has a defined strategy and procedures in place to ensure that assessment, including Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
- will meet the requirements of the relevant Training Package or VET accredited course
- will be conducted in accordance with the principles of assessment and the rules of evidence
- will meet workplace and, where relevant, regulatory requirements and
- is systematically validated.
The following information has been extracted from the AQTF ‘Essential conditions and standards for initial registration’ manual and is dated June 2010 and is relevant for all RTOs not regulated by the NVR:
Standard 1: The applicant has strategies in place to provide quality training and assessment across all of its operations.
1.1 The applicant has a defined continuous improvement strategy that allows for the collection and analysis of data. The strategy includes implementation of continuous improvement activities for training and assessment.
1.5 The applicant has a defined strategy and procedures in place to ensure that assessment, including recognition of prior learning (RPL):
a. will meet the requirements of the relevant training package or accredited course
b. will be conducted in accordance with the principles of assessment and the rules of evidence
c. will meet workplace and, where relevant, regulatory requirements
d. is systematically validated.
These standards dictate that assessments and their processes must be systematically validated and continuous improvement strategies are in place for training and assessments. Both these points are addressed via an assessment review process and makes for best practice for RTOs and assessors.
Each organisation will have its own recording and documenting system to meet compliance requirements. Discuss with your manager what document is used to capture assessment validation conversations and where this documentation is held.
Self-improvement is essential as a trainer. It allows you to improve your processes and provide a level of service to your candidates and clients which will satisfy their needs. It is imperative that you read and take on-board any feedback provided to you via a validation process, and use this as a basis for future improvements.