All students at NSW School of Natural Medicine will have access to Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). In the first lesson of class of each module, the teacher/lecturer/assessor will be responsible to ensure that the students are informed of the Recognition of Prior Learning procedure.
- Information to the students will be in forms of the following; handbooks, marketing material on flyers and course handouts.
- Students will be informed of the RPL application form (see below)
- Information will be provided about the types of evidence that can be used to support their application
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) exists in a number of forms:
- formal training in a similar course/institution.
- formal training in a related course.
- work experience in the profession/industry.
- work experience in a related profession/industry.
- life experience.
Where an applicant claims exemption from, or credit for, a subject or subjects on the basis of life experience or work experience, evidence of experience is required. Documents must include reference and/or referees who are contactable. Applicants will be required to show evidence of completed training. Proof of completed training must be arranged through the institution concerned, with the students written consent. Where no documentation is available, the applicant is offered a challenge test in the modules or competencies concerned. The challenge test can take the form of short or long written responses, oral and/or practical tests by a qualified assessor.
Formal Training in a Similar Course/Institution
It is possible for an applicant to gain credit in an area or subject that has been covered at another institution or on another course. Each case for this is viewed separately according to its merits. Regular reviews of the courses offered by other colleges will be made in relation to claims for exemption. Proof of credit must be arranged through the institution concerned, with the students consent. Transfers, credits and exemptions follow a common procedure but each individual is subject to individual assessment.
Formal Training in a Related Course
Applicants who have completed similar modules from a related profession are given exemption or credit for those modules upon validation. Proof of credit must be arranged through the institutions concerned, with students consent. Medical practitioners, Dentists, Physiotherapists, Chiropractors, Osteopaths, Chinese Medical Practitioners, Acupuncturists, Nurses, dietitians etc. may gain exemption from all or part of the basic medical and science modules, upon validation and depending on their individual circumstances. Additional modules for consideration are Practice Management and Clinical Skills. The credit is negotiated with the applicant and if necessary a challenge test is conducted. Beauty students with formal training in their field may be eligible for RPL.
Work Experience in the Profession or Industry
Experience in a clinical practical situation or within the beauty realm is usually what prompts applicants to apply to colleges to study formally. These applicants understand through experience what is required of a practitioner/therapist working with the public and generally make excellent students and graduates. Credit from any modules is by negotiation in light of the individuals experience combined with challenge tests, the applicant and administration then arrive at a mutually agreeable arrangement.
Work Experience in a Related Profession or Industry
Applicants in this category have employment history in a related profession, which is an enormously diverse group. Credit will be given for knowledge and skills in appropriate modules, generally a challenge test will be needed to establish competency.
Life Experience
Where an applicant claims exemption or credit of modules on the basis of life experience, documentary evidence of the experience is required. The documents must include references and referee's who are contactable.
Application
Recognition for Prior Learning (RPL) may be granted at the discretion of the Principal. Application must be made in writing accompanied by all relevant documentation and is subject to a fee of $70 per module.
