First Aid Alive Recognised Prior Learning Policy

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Policy for First Aid Training

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish clear and consistent procedures for the assessment of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for First Aid qualifications. RPL allows individuals to gain formal recognition of their current competencies based on prior learning and/or work experience, which could reduce the need for repeating training and assessments.

2. Scope

This policy applies to learners enrolled in First Aid training programs at the Registered Training Organization (RTO), including but not limited to:

HLTAID003 Provide First Aid
HLTAID004 Provide an Emergency First Aid Response in an Education and Care Setting
HLTAID005 Provide First Aid in Remote Situations

3. Eligibility for RPL

To be eligible for RPL for a First Aid qualification, candidates must demonstrate that their prior learning and experience aligns with the unit of competency requirements of the relevant First Aid qualification. This may include:

Current or previous employment where First Aid was required.
Completion of similar first aid training in another jurisdiction.
Self-directed learning or volunteer work where First Aid skills have been applied.

4. RPL Application Process

Candidates seeking RPL for First Aid must follow the following steps:

1. Submit an RPL Application Form

Complete and submit the RPL application form along with any supporting documentation (e.g., certificates, workplace records, testimonials, job descriptions, etc.).

2. Initial RPL Assessment

RTO staff will review the application and determine whether the applicant meets the basic requirements to apply for RPL. If the application is incomplete or does not meet the minimum criteria, the applicant will be notified.

3. Competency Mapping

The applicant will be required to map their prior learning and experience against the competencies required in the First Aid qualification. This may include providing evidence of:

Previous first aid courses or certifications.
Workplace training or supervision.
Practical application of first aid in real-world settings.

4. Assessment of Evidence

First Aid Alive will assess the applicant’s evidence using a combination of methods, such as:

Portfolio of Evidence: A collection of documents demonstrating the applicant’s skills and experience.
Practical Skills Assessment: A demonstration of current first aid skills in a controlled environment.
Third-Party Validation: Statements from employers, colleagues, or other stakeholders verifying the applicant’s experience and competence.

5. RPL Outcome

Once the RPL assessment is complete, the applicant will be informed of the outcome. If RPL is granted, the relevant units of competency will be awarded. If RPL is not granted, the applicant will be provided with feedback and may need to complete the full training and assessments.

5. Evidence Requirements

Applicants seeking RPL must provide sufficient evidence that demonstrates their competencies in line with the unit of competency requirements. This may include:

Workplace evidence (e.g., first aid logs, incident reports, supervisor testimonials).
Previous training records (e.g., certificates or transcripts of completed courses).
Practical demonstrations: A practical assessment of the candidate’s ability to perform first aid procedures.
Third-party reports from employers, colleagues, or other relevant professionals.

6. RPL Assessment Methods

First Aid Alive will use various assessment methods to ensure that the evidence provided by the applicant is valid, reliable, and sufficient. These methods include:

Observation of practical skills: Verifying competence in real-world scenarios.
Knowledge questioning: To assess the applicant’s understanding of the theory behind first aid procedures.
Workplace documentation review: To assess the context and frequency of first aid application in the workplace.

7. RPL Fees

There may be an RPL application fee to cover the administrative and assessment costs. First Aid Alive will provide a clear breakdown of RPL fees prior to the assessment process.

8. Appeals Process

If the applicant disagrees with the RPL assessment outcome, they can appeal the decision by following the RTO’s formal complaints and appeals process.

9. Maintaining Competency

RPL does not guarantee that a qualification will remain valid indefinitely. All learners are encouraged to maintain their first aid skills by attending refresher courses and keeping up with any changes in regulations or best practices.

10. Record Keeping

All RPL applications, assessments, and decisions will be documented and stored in line with First Aid Alive’s record-keeping policies and the regulatory requirements for student records.

11. Compliance with Regulatory Standards

This policy adheres to the standards set by:

Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA): The national regulator for Australia’s vocational education and training (VET) sector.
National Training Package requirements: For the applicable first aid units of competency.

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure ongoing compliance and effectiveness.

Version: 1.0
Effective Date: 13/06/2026
Review Date: 13/06/2027