STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK

Transcription

1 AUSTRALIAN COLLEGE OF TRAINING & ASSESSMENT STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK Name: Student ID PROVIDER No: AUSTRALIAN COLLEGE OF TRAINING & ASSESSMENT

2 Contents Table of Contents MESSAGE FROM THE CEO ABOUT US PHILOSOPHY ABSENTEEISM Complaints POLICY Appeals POLICY Guidelines for Assessment RTO CODE OF PRACTICE Access and Equity Reasinable Adjustment Enrolment POLICY Enrolment Induction COURSE INFORMATION Student Information Feedback LEGISLATIVE & REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS The NSW Occupational Health & Safety Act 2000 & Work Cover NSW Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 and Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act TRAINING DELIVERY & ASSESSMENT SERVICES Conduct of Assessment Qualification Issue National Recognition Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Records Maintenance Access to Records Access Authorisation Form SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 2 of 18

3 MESSAGE FROM THE CEO Welcome! Thank you for choosing our RTO to assist you to achieve your learning goals. Your decision to undertake study is an important one. Whether you are seeking to update or upgrade your skills, or you are seeking a new career direction, our team of friendly and dedicated staff is available to make your learning experience unique. To guide you through your study, we have developed this Student Handbook. It sets out a range of processes and procedures that have been put in place to guarantee consistency and quality. We believe that every student should receive value for money. We aim to provide you with the best facilities, trainers and support services to ensure that your learning experience meets and exceeds your expectations. Our RTO is registered by government, based on the quality of the training, assessment and other services we provide to students and industry. To help us maintain our high standards, please take time to read this information and complete the student Declaration of Understanding included at the back of the handbook. Please ensure that you read carefully our Code of Conduct and Code of Practice on the following pages. They contain important information that you need to abide by whilst at the RTO. You may wish to refer to these details in this document during your study, so keep them in a safe place. On behalf of myself and my valued team, I wish you an enjoyable and rewarding training experience. Sincerely CEO STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 3 of 18

4 ABOUT US AUSTRALIAN COLLEGE OF TRAINING & ASSESSMENT is a wholly Australian owned company, which operates as a registered training provider (a RTO - Registered Training Organisation) recognised by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA). AUSTRALIAN COLLEGE OF TRAINING & ASSESSMENT provides recognition of prior learning services for the following qualifications: CPC40110 Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building) CPC30211 Certificate III in Carpentry AUR30612 Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology CPC30611 Certificate III in painting and Decorating And offers training and assessment in the following units of competency: HLTAID001 Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation HLTAID002 Provide basic Emergency Support) HLTAID003 First AidHLTAID004 Emergency First Aid Response in an Education and Care Setting SITHFAB201 Responsible Service Alcohol (RSA) SITHGAM201 Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG) CPCCOHS1001A Work Safely in the Construction Industry (White card) The AUSTRALIAN COLLEGE OF TRAINING & ASSESSMENT RTO was established in Our training team of top quality training professionals are highly qualified and experienced to provide students with quality training and assessment services. All Trainers/Assessors and staff operate in accordance with The RTO s Code of Practice. PHILOSOPHY AUSTRALIAN COLLEGE OF TRAINING & ASSESSMENT philosophy is about helping students to achieve their personal, learning and career goals. The management and staff of ACTA are committed to providing opportunities for quality supported learning through industry endorsed and nationally recognised Vocational Education and Training. We are committed to providing world class best practice in training and assessment. We believe that every student, regardless of age, race, gender, religion or ability has the right to access support, training and assessment services and facilities of the highest possible quality. We strive to provide training products, which respond effectively to industry needs and student needs. The ACTA team is committed to creating and maintaining a unique supportive learning environment, which encourages a professional and creative approach to learning. STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 4 of 18

5 ACTA practises and promotes Equal Opportunity to all stakeholders. The RTO encourages individuals to have respect for other people; believe in their abilities and to strive for personal excellence in every endeavour. The RTO is built on the belief that effective communication and information sharing are the keys to personal and professional growth. ABSENTEEISM Students who are unable to attend a scheduled lesson or assessment activity should contact the booking office before the scheduled time to rebook. COMPLAINTS AND APPEALS POLICY If you are not satisfied with the outcomes of assessment or have a complaint about any part of the course or the service offered by AT, you may appeal or complain formally. If you wish to lodge an appeal or complaint you will be asked to complete a form (Form 3.1 Complaints and Appeals Statement) hand over to the ACAT admin office or send via admin@actacollege.edu.au which will be responded to in writing within 5 working days. Appeal of assessment outcomes must be lodged within 10 working days of the assessment decision. If the complaint remains unresolved the person submitting the complaint or appeal will be referred to external avenues with mutual consent for further review We treat all complaints seriously and aim to please every participant. We will investigate each complaint and work with you to resolve any issue using a fair and equitable process. For further information on the process, please contact the office (contact numbers are on the last page of this Handbook). This process does not prevent the student from exercising the student s rights to other legal remedies. REFUND POLICY Requests for refund of fees must be in writing, in line with ACTA s Refund Policy. Please contact the office if you wish to seek a refund. Refund Policy: ACTA will make a full refund of all fees paid should a course be discontinued. Should the participant desire to take an alternative course with ACTA, fees will be fully transferable to that course. In the event of a course for which the participant was enrolled being unavailable or no acceptable alternative course is available, fees are fully refundable. Should a participant cancel an enrolment with ACTA, the following conditions will apply regarding a refund of fees: - 10% of the deposit fee is non-refundable - Cancellation up to two weeks prior to the commencement of the course, a full refund (less the 10 % deposit) will be given - Cancellation between course commencement date and two weeks prior to the commencement of the course, 80% of fees will be refunded, less the deposit - No refunds or transfers will be given for cancellations or discontinuations after a course commencement date or after exclusion for unsatisfactory attendance or behavior, except where extenuating circumstances prevail* - All requests for cancellation or refunds must be made in writing (FORM 2.1 Refund Request), and be accompanied with supporting documentation where necessary - Normal processing time for a refund request is up to four weeks - Confidentiality of participant information will be ensured (see PRO 1.6 Participant Information Management Policy) - Refunds will be paid within one (1) week of the claim being agreed * Extenuating circumstances: should a participant have to discontinue a course for legitimate reasons, such as sickness, exceptional family circumstances, a pro-rata refund may be given less the deposit. STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 5 of 18

6 RTO CODE OF PRACTICE AUSTRALIAN COLLEGE OF TRAINING & ASSESSMENT will act in accordance with the highest level of industry standards to provide vocational education and training. The Code of Practice outlines our operational policies and our commitment to our clients. ACTA will provide students with quality vocational education and training that meets the requirements of the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) : Provide qualified and experienced trainers and assessors who:- Undertake their duties with honesty, objectivity, integrity and diligence Act professionally and give the highest standards of service to students Conduct fair, flexible, valid and reliable competency based assessments Provide training and assessment services in accordance with the enrolment form (agreement). Recruit participants in a responsible and ethical manner on the basis of Access and Equity and in accordance with consumer protection legislation. ACTA uses a comprehensive and systematic strategy to ensure that consumers rights are protected and the Organisation follows all related legislation and regulatory requirements. The strategy includes; Ethical and accurate advertising/ marketing Comprehensive information provision Fee protection Accessible and transparent complaints and appeals processes and systems Protection of consumer s personal information All consumers can make a formal complaint by. You can visit the website or request a copy of the consumer protection policy and procedure from our administration staff for more information. Treat students fairly with professional concern for their interests and refers to external advice if necessary. Deliver, monitor and review training and assessment services to ensure that the interests and welfare of students are maintained. Provide an appeals and complaints procedure and opportunities for reassessment. Encourage feedback and evaluation from stakeholders. Students will be notified 3 weeks in advance if the RTO decides to relocate. Provide up-to-date facilities and equipment in a safe and healthy environment. Act in a way that promotes co-operation and good relations among the people the organisation works with. Recognise the rights and dignity of the students observing at all times, the tenets of Anti-Discrimination and Equal Opportunity Laws. ACTA prohibits discrimination in any form. Comply with the requirements of Commonwealth and NSW legislative and regulatory requirements including: Work Health and Safety, Work Cover NSW, Privacy and Personal Information Protection and VET Act. Recognise qualifications issued by Registered Training Organisations (RTO) within the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). Comply with all state and territory regulatory and legislative requirements. STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 6 of 18

7 Provide timely and accurate information to government agencies and funding bodies. Advertise and markets its training services with integrity, accuracy and professionalism. Provide accurate, relevant and up-to-date information and provides its fees and charges on enquiry. Maintain accurate confidential and secure training and financial records. Observe total discretion and confidentiality in all dealings. Recognise and advise all concerned of any possible conflict of interest in dealings with and on behalf of ACTA Access and Equity Policy PURPOSE: This Access and Equity Policy is based on providing and maintaining training services that reflect fair and reasonable opportunity, and consideration for all students and staff, regardless of race, colour, religion, gender or physical disability, regardless of the prevailing community values. These principles also reflect our commitment to the Australian Democratic Principles for education. SCOPE At ACTA the CEO is appointed as the Client Equity Officer. The ACTA CEO is to ensure all staff act in accordance with the Code of Practice and all clients are made aware of their rights and responsibilities. PROCEDURE: Discrimination Discrimination in the workplace takes place when a person is treated less favourably, or potentially may be treated less favourably than others, because of that person s circumstances, characteristics or beliefs. ACTA is an equal opportunity employer and as such does not discriminate against, or favour target groups in either recruiting or training. Target Groups are defined as: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders People with a disability People from non-english speaking backgrounds People in transition and other special groups (i.e. people re-entering the workforce, long term unemployed, sole parents, people with literacy problems, and those who have been institutionalised) Women People from regionally isolated communities Direct Discrimination Direct discrimination includes actions by individuals and organisations, and takes place when a person or organisation or group of persons, is treated less fairly than others on the basis of stereotyped beliefs or views. Indirect Discrimination Indirect discrimination includes rules, practices or polices which appear to be non-discriminatory and equally applicable, but operate in such a way that certain groups of people are excluded without just cause. STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 7 of 18

8 Guidelines ACTA will apply easily defined and tangible rules in support of access and equity, namely: All staff are to be given fair and reasonable opportunity to participate in relevant decision making processes and the allocation of resources and services as required to fulfil their duties and responsibilities All clients are to be given fair and reasonable opportunity to attend and complete training All perceived deficiencies in the Access and Equity Policy are to be documented at the quarterly review. Deficiencies are to be investigated to determine whether a problem or policy discrepancy exists, and if so, the impact of that deficiency, how the policy should be amended to eliminate the deficiency and whether the suggested amendment is consistent with a best practice strategy Resources available: Training Information Centre Australian Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Work Health and Safety NSW Equal Opportunity Commission Department of Education Employment and Workplace Relations National Centre for Vocational Education Research Job Network Information Line Department of Immigration NSW also has laws that govern Vocational Education and Training (VET). The State Training Act regulates the employment and training of apprentices and trainees. Equal Opportunity Legislation There are laws to protect those involved in the training system. This legislation makes discrimination and harassment in the provision of education, employment and the provision of goods and services unlawful. Details concerning the scope of Access and Equity Policy are to be clearly displayed throughout the organisation and contained within the Code of Practice Safe working Environment Access to a safe work/training environment is a high priority for ACTA. All training rooms and environments are to be checked for safety related issues. Any issues highlighted are to be reported to management. Issues are to be eliminated, minimised or rectified in accordance with relevant WHS legislation. Student Selection ACTA is committed to ensuring that all student selection processes are fair, equitable and consistent with workplace performance, competency level and the Training Package requirements. Therefore selection into programs is based upon the applicant student: Satisfying appropriate funding body entry criteria (where applicable) Meeting any pre-requisite units of competency, qualifications or work experience Meeting any age requirements that may be in place for a particularly course (eg. Licensing requirements) Identifying any student needs ACTA shall ensure that any applicants who do not meet entry requirements are advised of any appropriate pre entry training they may take to meet eligibility criteria. Student Enrolment ACTA is committed to the enrolment of students when the organisation has the capacity to deliver the course for which the student is enrolling and where the student has: Applied in the prescribed manner STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 8 of 18

9 Meets the selection requirements for the relevant course Meets the selection criteria for the course, or have satisfied the CEO of their equivalent qualification or experience to undertake the course Supplied accurate personal and previous qualification information Agreed to abide by the organisation s policies and procedures Paid the prescribed fees ACTA is committed to ensuring that all of its students have the support required to complete the requirements of their course. Students who have a special need or just require additional support are encouraged to discuss their needs with their Trainer/Assessor or the RTO Manager on (insert number). Once your need has been identified your trainer/assessor will develop with you an individualized support plan. Referral to a range of external support services (e.g. counselling, disability resource centres, language, literacy and numeracy support) is available on request Equity and Access ACTA is committed to providing support services and equal access to opportunities for students with a disability, in accordance with the provisions of the Disability Discrimination Act (1992). ACTA shall always respect a student s right to privacy and confidentiality in relation to their disability and be sensitive to the needs of students with a disability. Students with a disability are required to have the ability to fulfil the core requirements and satisfactorily complete competencies/learning outcomes within all courses to attain the relevant award. However, it is recognised that flexibility in arrangements may need to be implemented. Such arrangements may be negotiated with the ACTA CEO. Equity groups and reasonable adjustment 'Reasonable adjustment, sometimes called reasonable accommodation or allowable adjustment is designed to ensure that all people are treated equally in the assessment process this means that, wherever possible, "reasonable", adjustments are made to the assessment process to meet the individual needs of students.' Equity groups may include, but are not limited to: Students with English as a second language Students with literacy or numeracy difficulties Indigenous students Students in remote locations Women in non-traditional industries Students with sensory impairment Students with physical or intellectual disabilities Reasonable adjustment may mean: Making learning materials and methods accessible Adapting the physical environment and equipment Making adjustments to the procedures for conducting assessment Making adjustments to the evidence gathering techniques ACTA - Work Health and Safety Policy - Policy Statement ACTA is committed to establishing and maintaining, so far as practicable, the highest standards of work health, safety and welfare for the employees, students, contractors and any other members of the community who may be effected by the RTO s operations. STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 9 of 18

10 ACTA has a legal and moral obligation to its employees and all other uses of facilities to provide as far as practicable a safe and healthy working and learning environment. The Chief Executive Officer accepts overall responsibility for the effective management of health and safety systems to ensure these obligations will be met. Responsibilities and accountabilities have been determined and represent part of the employment contract between ACTA and all employees. No employee or student shall be victimised or disadvantaged for making a complaint. Amenities will include First Aid kits, trained First Aiders, and a place to rest, etc. Practicable means taking into account all of the following factors: o The severity of the hazard or risk in question; o The state of knowledge about any ways of removing the hazard or risk; o The availability of ways of removing that hazard or risk; o The cost of removing that hazard or risk. Roles/Responsibility The Occupational Health and Safety sub-committee is responsible for ensuring the Occupational Health and Safety Policy and associated processes and documents are current. Enrolment Policy To ensure that ACTA satisfies the Standards for National Registered for Training Organisations. ACTA will select participants into courses who demonstrate a genuine interest in the area and a determination to complete the course. ACTA will abide by all relevant state and territory laws in selecting participants. ACTA will provide support to ensure that all eligible participants are able to access ACTA courses. ACTA will provide a timely enrolment services and induction information to participants prior to course commencement to ensure they are adequately inducted. Enrolment/Induction Language, Literacy and Numeracy Assessments Upon receiving an application for enrolment: The Administration Officer will invoice the participant. The participant will be provided with a confirmation of enrolment, together with a copy of the tax invoice. The Student Handbook and relevant policies are also available in the ACTA office. Course materials are forwarded or provided at the course/s. Recruitment to the RTO is carried out in an ethical manner in accordance with Access and Equity principles. Access to training is open to all applicants subject to payment of fees and the extent to which the course outcomes and pre-requisites match the needs of the student. Enrolment is ongoing where places are available. Enrolment Procedure:- - Student contacts school by telephone, fax, and . On-line or in person. - On receipt of payment student is issued receipt. - Student is given an identification number and a database record is established. STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 10 of 18

11 COURSE INFORMATION ACTA is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) with Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA). A course outline has been developed for all ACTA courses. Please ensure that you have received a course outline for your course before commencing study. The course outline provides information on: Course name Course content Qualification name and code Cost Course entry requirements Delivery dates Nominal length To receive a Statement of Attainment all assessments must be completed and a competent decision reached on the totality of your work. THE NAME ON THE ENROLMENT APPLICATION WILL BE THE ONE ON YOUR STATEMENT OF ATTAINMENT/QUALIFICATION Student Information All students will be given the following information on their first day at the RTO. Most of your questions will be answered at this time, however always feel free to ask about anything you are unsure about. Before paying and commencing a course at ACTA, you will have had the following information explained to you. Requirements to receive a qualification/statement of Attainment. Certificates issued on successful completion of the course How your skills, knowledge and attitudes will be assessed Recognition of prior learning (RPL) How you can appeal if you don t agree with your assessment outcome How you can place a complaint or appeal if you are not satisfied with any part of the course or training. Course content/units of competency Emergency evacuation procedures Your obligations as a student at our RTO including attendance and following instructions Feedback As part of the RTO continuous improvement procedures you will be asked to complete a feedback sheet about your time at the RTO. This is your opportunity to provide the RTO with feedback on:- The course The trainers/assessors Course administration The training facilities The training activities Resources and materials Assessment procedures STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 11 of 18

12 The information gained is invaluable as a guide for the RTO to better maintain course quality and relevance. Feedback may be supplied to and used by governments and other agencies for administration, regulation and research. LEGISLATIVE & REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS ACTA is bound by and operates within the following legislative and regulatory requirements: Australian Workplace Safety Standards 2005 NSW Work Health & Safety Act (as amended 2002) Occupational Health and Safety (Committees in Workplaces) Regulation 1999 Disability Discrimination Act 1992 Freedom of Information Act 1982 The NSW Privacy and Personal Information Act 1999 Privacy Act and National Privacy Principles 2001 Privacy Amendment Act 2004 Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act 1986 Racial Discrimination Act 1975 Sex Discrimination Act 1984 Affirmative Action (Equal Employment Opportunities for Women) Act 1986 Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 Spam Act 2003 Workplace Relations Act 1996 Skilling Australia s Workforce Act 2005 Vocational Education and Training Act 2010 Workplace Injury Management and Workers Compensation Act 1988 WorkCover Legislation Amendment Act 1996 No.120 Copies of these can be accessed from the web at or The NSW Work Health & Safety Act & Work Cover NSW The RTO guarantees to meet its Duty of Care to staff, students and visitors by providing facilities and a safe and healthy learning environment in accordance with the Act. Emergency evacuation procedures for students undertaking classroom programs are covered at the commencement of class. In an emergency situation you are to make your way quickly and calmly to the nearest exit where you will meet your educator and other students for a roll call check at assembly point. Procedure, Are to raise the alarm Alert other students and staff Notify the Chief warden who will usually be your Trainer/Assessor Evacuate the immediate area and assemble in the meeting area If requested evacuate the building Evacuation meeting point is to be advised on your first day. No Smoking is allowed in any area of the school. If you wish to smoke you must leave the premises. A First Aid Kit is located in the RTO. Students are reminded to OBSERVE SAFE WORK PRACTICES and reporting any accidents or injuries whilst at the RTO. You are responsible for: Always conducting yourself in a safe and healthy manner. Ensuring the prevention of injury and disease to yourself, your trainers and your fellow students. STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 12 of 18

13 Identifying and reporting to your trainer any possible hazards from equipment, facilities and the environment. Refraining from smoking. Refraining from drinking and/or eating in the classrooms. Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 and Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act 1986 ACTA is committed to providing a fair and equitable school for its students and visitors. Any discrimination or harassment of staff, students or visitors because of their sex, pregnancy, race, colour, religion, nationality, ethnic or ethno- religious background, marital status, physical or intellectual or psychiatric disability, homosexuality or age will not be tolerated. You are responsible for: Ensuring non-discriminatory or harassing behaviour at all times to other students, staff or visitors to the school. Reporting any discriminatory behaviour or harassment to your trainer. Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 It is a requirement that we keep records of each student s current residential address, the student s full name, date of birth, nationality, the start and completion day of the student s course, attendance and academic performance details of payments received,. We must also keep a record of the reason for a student s termination of studies Your records are confidential and available to you on request. Records of attendance, assessment outcomes and qualifications issued are kept accurate, up-to-date and secure. We keep copies of your records for a period of 30 years. You must bear the cost for re-issue of records and awards. A fee of $25.00 is charged for a duplicate copy of a Statement of attainment and $75 for any qualification. Students may access their records on request. Records are kept confidential and require written permission by the student prior to release of any information in their records. To request a file staff and students must complete a Request for Access form this is available from the Office. ACTA will not disclose or use any information, personal or otherwise, without the express written consent of the individual. Information-Unique Student Identifier (USI) You are advised that and agree that you understand and consent that the personal information you provide in connection with an application for a SUI: STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 13 of 18

14 is collected by the Student Identifiers Registrar for the purposes of: applying for, verifying and giving a USI; resolving problems with a USI; and creating authenticated vocational education and training (VET) transcripts; may be disclosed to: Commonwealth and State/Territory government departments and agencies and statutory bodies performing functions relating to VET for: the purposes of administering and auditing Vocational Education and Training (VET), VET providers and VET programs; education related policy and research purposes; and to assist in determining eligibility for training subsidies; VET Regulators to enable them to perform their VET regulatory functions; VET Admission Bodies for the purposes of administering VET and VET programs; current and former Registered Training Organizations to enable them to deliver VET courses to the individual, meet their reporting obligations under the VET standards and government contracts and assist in determining eligibility for training subsidies; schools for the purposes of delivering VET courses to the individual and reporting on these courses; the National Centre for Vocational Education Research for the purpose of creating authenticated VET transcripts, resolving problems with USIs and for the collection, preparation and auditing of national VET statistics; researchers for education and training related research purposes; any other person or agency that may be authorized or required by law to access the information; any entity contractually engaged by the Student Identifiers Registrar to assist in the performance of his or her functions in the administration of the USI system; and will not otherwise be disclosed without their consent unless authorized or required by or under law. The Student Identifiers Registrar s Privacy Policy (Department of Education and Training) may be assessed through the following website: This document contains information about how you may: contacting the Registrar on usi@education.gov.au or telephone the Skilling Australia Information line on international enquiries The Registrar s Privacy Policy contains information about how you may access and seek correction of the personal information held about you and how you may make a complaint about a breach a privacy by the Registrar in connection with the USI and how such complaints will be dealt with. You may also make complaint to the Information Commissioner about interference of or unauthorised collection, use, access, modification or disclosure of USIs. access and seek correction of the personal information held about them; and complain about a breach of privacy and how such complaints will be dealt with. If all information requested is not provided, or is inaccurate, it may affect the Student Identifiers Registrar s ability to provide you a USI. For further information phone TRAINING DELIVERY & ASSESSMENT SERVICES Trainer and Assessor Qualifications ACTA trainers and assessors are selected against strict criteria, which ensures that they possess both training and industry qualifications in the subject areas they are involved with students, clients and industry have full confidence in the skills, knowledge and professional standing of our team, all trainers and assessors in accordance with the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015 hold a Nationally Recognised Qualification in their STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 14 of 18

15 industry area and in vocational education. Training and assessment is only conducted by people who have the right qualifications and experience at least to the level that they are teaching/assessing.. Students can have full confidence in the skills, knowledge and professional standing of our team. Trainers and assessors are required to participate in an ongoing skills development program to maintain and update their training and industry skills and knowledge. This ensures that students receive the best possible instruction and assessment. ACTA trainers have the relevant qualifications required by ASQA. Conduct of Assessment The RTO conducts assessments in accordance with the Standards for National Registration assessment guidelines for Registered Training Organisations (RTO) and is competency based against the standards outlined in the units of study. Assessment of performance at the end of the unit/s of training Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) The outcomes of assessment are Competent or Not Yet Competent. If you are assessed as Not Yet Competent you can request a re-assessment. Collection of sufficient evidence to demonstrate your competencies is required to meet the unit requirements. If you do not supply the required evidence then the assessors will get you to take the assessment again or a substitute assessment to allow you to provide all required evidence. Qualification Issue Students are required to satisfactorily complete the unit/s they are enrolled in and meet all requirements relating to the required unit/s of competency to gain the Statement of Attainment or qualification. National Recognition The RTO recognises statements of attainment and qualifications issued by another RTO under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). The ACTA will contact to the issuing body to ensure authenticity. This is an automatic recognition rather than going through a RPL process. The RTO may have non-endorsed courses that do not come under National Recognition. However, in these cases, you will be able to apply for RPL. The CEO is the person you need to see for National Recognition. Please discuss this with the CEO or your trainer for any clarification and decision in your circumstances. We reserve the right to verify the authenticity of such documents as required and to determine the currency of the units of competency/modules indicated on the testamur. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process whereby previous learning, experience or skills, gain formal recognition. Students complete an RPL Application form and submit this to the CEO. This is a fee - based service. If you believe you already have the skills and knowledge required to demonstrate competency you can request RPL. It does not matter whether you acquired your skills and knowledge through formal learning, work experience and/or life experiences. To request RPL you will need to: Collect and complete the RPL Student Kit from the office. Check your skills and knowledge for each unit of competency. (You can cross check these against the units of competency for your specific course) STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 15 of 18

16 Collect your evidence to show your competence. Your evidence must be valid (as described in the unit of competency), sufficient (enough), current (up-to-date) and authentic (your own work). List the types of evidence you have for each unit of competency. Present your evidence prepared and the RPL application to the CEO for assessment. The assessor will interview you and may ask you to undergo a challenge test. You will be provided with a written report on the outcomes of assessment of your application for RPL that you will be required to sign. Records Maintenance Students may access their records on request. Records are kept confidential and require written permission by the student prior to release of any information in their records to another party. Students under 18 years of age, by signing the Declaration of Understanding, give consent for the RTO to contact parent/s or guardian/s, if required. It is a requirement that we keep records of each student s current residential address (as supplied by the student), the student s full name, date of birth, the start and completion day of the student s course, attendance and academic performance details of payments received. PLEASE NOTE:- Records of attendance, assessment outcomes and qualifications issued are kept accurate, up-to-date and secure. Your personal information may be made available to Commonwealth and State Agencies. Your records are confidential and available to you on request. We keep a hard copy of your file for a period of 1 year after completion of your course. We keep results from your student file for 30 years after completion of your course. Students will bear the cost of re-issuing of records and qualifications. Access to Records Training record Learners must be able to access their training record in a timely manner, so that they are aware of their progress through a training program. Print-based For some programs the training record remains with the learner and the workplace trainer signs it as appropriate. If the training record is not immediately available to the learner, they may request a copy from either the trainer/assessor or administration, whichever is easier for them? The learner must be provided with an up-to-date copy of their training record within 48 hours of receiving the request. Other records Learners also have right of access to these records: Their own enrolment information Their own attendance records Their own learner file and anecdotal notes If a learner requests access to these files they may view them on the premises, in the presence of an authorised member of staff, at a mutually agreed time. The ACTA CEO must be made aware that this is being arranged. Informing learners about access Learners receive a general information sheet/booklet prior to enrolment that includes details of how to access their records. STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 16 of 18

17 Access Authorisation Form Details Date: Name: Student ID: Course: Course Intake: Section 1 Reason: Section 2 Acknowledgement I understand that my application for access to my personal file is controlled by ACTA s Privacy Policy Print Name: Signature: Authorisation Authorisation for Processing Action to be taken: APPROVED DENIED Access Date: Comments: Signed: Print Name: Position: Date Processed: STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 17 of 18

18 SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION ACTA will do all in its power to ensure all students receive fair and equal treatment. If a student is unable to abide by the RTO rules and regulations then they may requested to not return to RTO premises for a specified duration of time stated by the CEO. ACTA reserves the right to suspend students who do not abide by the RTO Policies and Procedures as stipulated in this Student Handbook under RTO Information, Declaration of Understanding and Student Responsibilities or any of the following: Theft Non-payment of fees Disruptive behaviour The time frame for suspension depends on the incident(s) and is up to the discretion of the CEO. ACTA reserves the right to suspend students. Procedure is as follows (relevant for one day course only): The student will be interviewed by the educator outlining the nature of the problem. The student will be given an opportunity to speak about the problem. warning will be given to the student, if the behaviour continues, the student will be asked to leave the class and see the head trainer to resolve dispute. All discussions/actions will be documented on the student file. The student will also be given a copy. If the student is still not satisfied with the outcome the student can appeal to the CEO of AUSTRALIAN COLLEGE OF TRAINING & ASSESSMENT. STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES To comply with the RTO s dress code. To comply with and assist in the RTO s emergency procedures. To conduct yourself in a safe and healthy manner and behave in a manner which prevents injury & disease to you, your trainer model & fellow students. To identify and report to your trainer any possible hazards from equipment, facilities and the environment. To ensure non-discriminatory or harassing behaviour to other students, staff or visitors to the school. To report any discriminatory behaviour or harassment to your trainer. To register complaints, disputes or grievance with your trainer or the CEO. To refrain from smoking anywhere in the RTO building. To refrain from drinking and/or eating in the classrooms and salons. To refrain from unacceptable behaviour including the use of bad language, alcohol and drugs To refrain from the use of devices which may disrupt classes eg. Mobile phones and pagers unless discussed with you trainer. Not to leave the RTO without notifying your trainer. Contacting ACTA: Phone Address: 32 Terminus Street, Liverpool NSW admin@actacollege.edu.au Web: Office Hours: 9.00am 5.00pm Monday to Friday STUDENT INFORMATION HANDBOOK version 2, updated Page 18 of 18