The Evidence Behind RPL: What You Actually Need to Prove

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is often misunderstood as a simple paperwork exercise or a shortcut to qualification. In reality, it's a comprehensive assessment process that requires substantial evidence of your skills and experience. Understanding what evidence you need to provide is crucial for anyone considering the RPL pathway to trade qualification.

The Assessment-Based Nature of RPL

Unlike traditional courses where you learn and then get tested, RPL is purely an assessment of what you already know and can do. This fundamental difference means the focus is entirely on proving your existing competency, not on teaching you new skills.

The assessment is conducted against the same national competency standards used in apprenticeships and TAFE courses. There's no lowering of standards or special treatment—you either demonstrate the required skills or you don't qualify.

What makes RPL valuable is that it recognises that skills can be acquired through practical experience, not just formal education. This respects the real-world learning that happens on job sites every day.

Types of Evidence Required

To successfully complete an RPL assessment, you'll need to provide multiple forms of evidence:

Photographic Evidence (25-30 photos):

• Clear images showing you performing various aspects of your trade

• Photos demonstrating different stages of projects

• Evidence of completed work that showcases your skill level

• Images that demonstrate safety compliance and proper technique

Video Demonstrations (5-7 clips):

• Short videos (approximately 30 seconds each) showing you actively performing key tasks

• Footage that clearly identifies you as the person performing the work

• Demonstrations of critical skills specific to your qualification

• Commentary explaining what you're doing and why (where appropriate)

References and Testimonials:

• Written statements from employers, supervisors, or clients

• Contact details for verbal verification

• Specific references to the skills and knowledge being assessed

• Confirmation of the duration and nature of your experience

Documentation of Past Projects:

• Job sheets and work orders

• Permits and compliance documentation

• Quotes and invoices (with sensitive information redacted)

• Project plans or drawings you've worked from

Additional Supporting Evidence:

• Relevant licences or tickets

• Previous training certificates

• Employment records

• Logbooks or diaries of work completed

The key is providing evidence that collectively covers all the competency units required for your qualification. Any gaps in evidence could result in partial or no qualification.

The Assessment Process

Once submitted, your evidence is evaluated by qualified assessors who are experts in your trade. They'll review everything against the national competency standards, looking for proof that you can perform all required skills to industry standard.

The process typically involves:

1. Initial review of your submitted evidence

2. Verification of references and documentation

3. Possible follow-up questions or requests for additional evidence

4. Assessment decision based on the totality of evidence

5. Recommendation for full qualification, partial qualification, or gap training

This process is comparable to the assessment phases of an apprenticeship, but concentrated on evaluating existing skills rather than developing new ones.

What Happens If Your Evidence Is Insufficient

Not everyone who applies for RPL receives a full qualification immediately. If your evidence doesn't demonstrate competency across all required units, several outcomes are possible:

Refund Policy:
If you've followed all instructions but simply don't meet the eligibility criteria after submitting your evidence, reputable RPL providers like Master Trades Association offer a full refund. This ensures you're not paying for a service that can't benefit you.

Options for Gathering More Evidence:
Sometimes the assessor will identify specific gaps and request additional evidence. This might involve:

• Submitting more targeted photos or videos

• Providing additional documentation

• Arranging a practical demonstration

• Obtaining more specific references

Gap Training:
For competencies that can't be evidenced through your experience, targeted gap training may be recommended. This focuses only on the specific skills you need to develop, rather than repeating things you already know.

Real Examples of Successful Evidence Portfolios

While maintaining confidentiality, we can share anonymised examples of successful RPL candidates:

Case Study: Carpenter with 15 Years Experience
A carpenter who had worked primarily in residential construction provided:

• 35 photos showing framing, finishing, and cabinetry work

• Videos demonstrating complex joints and staircase construction

• References from three builders he had worked with

• Documentation from 20+ projects over a 10-year period
  Result: Full Certificate III in Carpentry

Case Study: Automotive Mechanic
A mechanic who had worked in various workshops provided:

• Photos of diagnostic procedures, repairs, and maintenance

• Videos showing engine rebuilds and electrical system work

• Service records and job cards spanning 8 years

• References from workshop managers and clients
  Result: Full Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Conclusion: RPL is About Proving Skills, Not Shortcuts

The evidence requirements for RPL make it clear that this pathway is not about bypassing proper qualification—it's about recognising skills that have been developed through practical experience rather than formal training.

The process demands substantial proof of your abilities, assessed against the same standards as any other qualification pathway. What differs is not the standard of competency required, but the method of demonstrating it.

If you're considering RPL, start gathering your evidence now. Document your current work with photos and videos, collect references, and organise your project history. The more comprehensive your evidence portfolio, the smoother your RPL assessment will be.

Master Trades Association specialises in guiding experienced tradies through the RPL process. Our team can help you understand exactly what evidence you'll need for your specific trade qualification and how to present it effectively. Contact us to discuss your situation and start your journey to formal recognition.