Efficient Use of an RPL Calculator for RPL Calculations

Employers can also set the specific parameters for the RPL calculator based on their specific needs, such as adding their own fixed costs.

When these fixed costs are combined with RPL discounts and then subtracted from the employer funding value, the calculator automatically determines the additional discount employers can provide.

In a matter of seconds, the RPL funding works out the exact amount of additional discount available for an apprenticeship based on the individual candidate’s Recognition of prior learning.

With this information, employers have a clear idea of how much money they save from the RPL application and whether it’s financially viable to offer an apprenticeship to each candidate.

What is an Initial Assessment?

Before starting an apprenticeship, apprentices take a Recognition of prior learning assessment to determine what relevant previous learning and experience they have.

The RPL assessment establishes the amount of training an apprentice needs while also ensuring that the apprenticeship they have chosen is suitable for their skills and experience.

It also ensures the apprentice receives credit for what they already know from previous learning, saving the cost and hassle of repeating parts of their training, a process known as Recognition of prior learning.

Essentially, the Recognition of prior learning helps identify a starting point for the apprentice and the specific training content they need in their apprenticeship.

Who Conducts the Initial Assessment?

The apprentice’s training provider conducts the RPL assessment. They use various RPL assessment methods to determine Recognition of prior learning, detailing their findings in a commitment statement.

Each training provider may use different assessment methods tailored to the needs of their training programs.

For instance, the RPL assessment method may include a self-assessment for the apprentice, a discussion between trainer and apprentice, or the trainer assessing evidence of prior learning. Each method’s goal is to identify previous skills, knowledge, and behaviours obtained from prior learning and work.

Once the RPL assessment is processed, the trainer uses the findings to develop a bespoke training program for the apprentice.

However, both the apprentice and their employer should also be involved in the initial assessment. For example, the apprentice must understand their prior learning to ensure that it is properly recognised and included in the commitment statement.

Employers should understand the RPL assessment methods being used and ensure that these methods are appropriate and effective for recognising prior learning.

The Importance of Completing a Recognition of Prior Learning Assessment

An apprenticeship is about learning new skills and knowledge through a bespoke training program. Through this training, the apprentice develops all the skills and knowledge they need to remain competent in their chosen job and remain engaged throughout the duration of their training.

So, by completing an initial assessment, the apprenticeship can be tailored to the specific requirements of each apprentice. In doing so, the apprenticeship is best suited to their current level of training and experience, making it more engaging for the apprentice.

Additionally, employers gain maximum value from their program by creating a bespoke apprenticeship program. They won’t need to provide unnecessary training if the apprentice has previously learned certain skills or behaviours, saving time and resources in training.  

For example, an RPL assessment can determine that an apprentice requires less time training, becoming fully component for their occupation in a shorter timeframe. Reducing the training time allows the employer to save money and resources on their apprenticeship program.

In fact, the RPL assessment process may identify that an apprenticeship isn’t suitable for the apprentice. In some cases, the apprentice’s prior learning and experience may be too high for their chosen apprenticeship.

As a result, the Recognition of prior learning scheme may save an apprentice and their trainer time and resources. The apprentice may be suitable for a more advanced level apprenticeship or another form of training.

How the RPL Assessment Benefits Employers and Apprentices

By completing prior learning assessments and Recognition, employers and apprentices gain many advantages. This includes:

Shortened or Accelerated Apprenticeships

The Recognition of prior learning assessment allows for a shortened or accelerated apprenticeship. If an apprentice already has some of the skills, knowledge, and experience to become an occupational component, then their apprenticeship program may be shorter.

Shortened or accelerated apprenticeships still need to be at least 12 months long and have a minimum of 20% off-the-job training after the RPL application. This means less time and resources are needed to complete an apprenticeship, thanks to the RPL process.

Increased Motivation for Apprentices

Recognition of prior learning ensures that an apprentice never repeats or receives unnecessary training. So, the RPL process rewards apprentices with more experience, ensuring the knowledge and skills they’ve already developed from working are recognised. 

Because their training program is tailored to their specific level and experience, apprentices are generally more motivated and engaged with their training. Additionally, apprentices who are more motivated display higher retention, achievement, and progression rates for their apprenticeship.

Save Employers Money

Because the RPL application may result in a shortened or accelerated apprenticeship, employers can save money on the cost of their training. The RPL assessment determines what aspects of training may be omitted in Recognition of prior learning, so employers can negotiate lower fees that reflect this reduced training program.

Visit ARODS.CO.UK if you’re looking for a low-cost apprentice management software system with simple but useful features. We’ve created a low-cost, user-friendly apprenticeship delivery system with all the functionality you need without the gimmicks.