VET News

Supporting Mandatory Workplace Requirements in Training Products

2020 saw many training providers scratching their heads and scrambling to find ways in which to deliver the mandatory workplace component of their program.  Seeking permission to conduct these components in simulated setting, or using online facilitation methods or simply replacing these opportunities with knowledge based activities were simply not acceptable across a range of training packages.  Yes, how are VET practitioners to overcome this in an environment that is socially restricted by COVID-19?

In an effort to identify solutions, the Australian Industry and Skills Committee (AISC) has recently completed its own review of the impact of COVID-19 on Mandatory Workplace Requirements (MWR) in training products.  Based on consultation with stakeholders, including Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), Industry Reference Committee’s (IRCs) and state and territory governments, the AISC has implemented a number of actions to support students, RTOs and employers including:

• in collaboration with relevant IRCs, completing a review of 1st to 40th qualifications (ranked by enrolment) believed to include a MWR
• amending the Amenity Horticulture Training Package to better support simulated workplace assessments
• issuing a statement to highlight existing flexibilities in delivery arrangements in the Sport, Fitness and Recreation and the Tourism, Travel and Hospitality training packages
• updated the Training Product Development and Endorsement Process Policy to make clear that when a training product includes a MWR, consultation with employers must demonstrate support for the requirement and employer willingness to facilitate student placements.

This review confirmed strong industry support for MWR where these are included in qualifications. These are considered to be essential in ensuring graduates have the necessary skills, knowledge and experience prior to commencing employment.

In addition, the AISC is developing advice for training package developers on where MWR are most appropriate, and the considerations that industry should have regard to when including these in training products. This advice is expected to be available in 2021 and the AISC is confident that the actions undertaken, together with the gradual easing of social distancing restrictions across all jurisdictions, will have a positive impact on the delivery of training during COVID-19, as well as provide lasting guidance and support for RTOs and students.

The AISC will continue to work closely with industry and other stakeholders to manage any specific issues as they arise so, while alternative methods of assessment are not seen to be feasible for most training packages, we can at least expect to receive a higher level of support and guidance as we move forward with our training programs into 2021.

View original AISC release here

Date posted Jan 14, 2021