Q: What does an RTO need to consider when determining the amount of training required? (Clause 1.2)

A: An RTO's training and assessment strategies and practices, including the amount of training they provide, must be consistent with the requirements of training packages and VET accredited courses and enable each learner to meet the requirements for each unit of competency or module in which they are enrolled.

In determining the amount of training required for each student the following factors should be considered:

a. the existing skills, knowledge and the experience of the learner

b. the mode of delivery; and

c. where a full qualification is not being delivered, the number of units and/or modules being delivered as a proportion of the full qualification.

A shorter course may be acceptable if, for example the learner cohort comprises experienced workers who already have most of the required skills and knowledge. Assessment requirements must still be met in such programs, although some assessment may be undertaken by recognising existing skills and knowledge.

Q: What are the Trainer and Assessor Requirements? (Clauses 1.13-1.16)

A: For all training products (except qualifications or skill sets from the Training and Education Training Package), the Standards for RTOs state that trainers and assessors must:

• have the vocational competencies at least to the level being delivered and assessed;
  
• have current relevant industry skills;
  
• have current knowledge and skills in VET; and
  
• be involved in ongoing professional development in VET.​
  

In addition, for RTOs providing training and assessment the trainer and assessor requires one or more of:

• Certificate IV in Training and Assessment;
  
• Diploma or higher qualification in adult education; or
  
• Prior to 1 January 2016, equivalent competencies to one of the above. ​
  

Further information regarding training and assessment competencies is available on page 36 of the Users' Guide.