Prospectus With Pathway to

Transcription

1 National Skills Development Centre Prospectus CHC30113 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care With Pathway to CHC50113 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care Throughout this document and associated forms, documents and templates, the term RTO refers the Registered Training Organisation National Skills Development Centre and any trading name associated with this legal entity. Photos used in this document are library images and do not represent actual people and the environment at National Skills Development Centre Page 1 of 20

2 CONTENTS Message from the Director and CEO... 3 Snapshot of Course... 4 About This Document... 5 Student Orientation... 5 In your first class... 6 Course Purpose & Target Group... 6 Fees, Refund Arrangements & Payment Schedule... 7 Fee payment Schedule for Full Fee Students... 7 Student requested refunds... 7 Delayed commencement or non-commencement... 8 Missed payments... 8 Fee changes... 8 Other Information... 8 Student Records... 8 Certificates... 8 RTO facilities and resources... 8 Course assessment... 9 Course delivery... 9 Attendance... 9 Pathways... 9 Qualifications to be issued... 9 Credit transfer... 9 Recognition of prior learning (RPL)... 9 Quality of Training Contextualisation to Workplace Settings Entry Requirements Exemption for USI Course Outcomes Delivery Schedule Course Materials Assessment Assessment Process Reasonable Adjustment Plagiarism and cheating Copyright Student support, welfare and behaviour Access and equity policy Special Needs Students at Risk Complaints and appeals procedure Student Support Services Relevant legislation RTO code of behaviour Change of address and contact details Student initiated deferral or suspension of enrolment Student cancellation of enrolment RTO initiated suspension or cancellation of enrolment RTO deferral of commencement Use of personal information Consumer rights Changes in ownership, third party arrangements and Course Structure Third party arrangements Appendix VET Fee Help and Other Funding Government Funding Eligibility in Victoria Appendix 2 - Complaints Process Page 2 of 20

3 Message from the Director and CEO This Prospectus contains information about the CHC30113 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and CHC50113 Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care courses offered by National Skills Development Centre at its Melbourne Campuses. For details of courses that may be offered at other locations, please leave you details with our office so we can contact you when new groups become scheduled. We ae delighted that you have taken the first step towards your career in Early Childhood and Education; a very rewarding and enjoyable industry. We also thank you for considering our Registered Training Organisation (RTO) to study your course. We endeavour to provide students with study options that are flexible, family friendly and provide sound education that will equip students with the knowledge and skills to be effective in their role within the Early Childhood Education and Care Industry. This programme has the option of completing just the CHC30113 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or continuing on to complete the CHC50113 Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care by crediting 17 of 18 units from the Certificate III course towards the Diploma course. The Training Package descriptor for these courses describes it as reflecting; "the role of early childhood educators who are responsible for designing and implementing curriculum in early childhood education and care services. In doing so they work to implement an approved learning framework within the requirements of the Education and Care Services National Regulations and the National Quality Standard". The courses is designed to develop skills and understanding in all aspects of early childhood education and care, equipping students to work in various early childhood structures. Students who have prior skills and knowledge in Early Childhood Education and Care and/or have already studied and hold a Statement of Achievement for any units in either qualification or any equivalent previous versions may apply for credit transfer or RPL for those units. Application should be made during the enrolment process and discussed with staff from National Skills Development Centre. The courses assume that students have little or no prior experience in child care, however, they are also suitable for students who are experienced in the Early Childhood industry. The delivery of the course emphasises and reinforces key concepts through a practical focus, and includes 120 hours of Practical Placement for the Certificate III and 240 hours for the Diploma course in regulated Early Childhood Education and Care centres. Whilst the courses are structured to work at a pace suitable for student needs, all students are expected to commit to face-to-face sessions, and on-line activities to clarify study material, share in practical applications of training and to demonstrate that they are competent in the performance criteria as outlined in the training package. Students should note that whilst this programme is partly self-paced, it will be conducted with strict adherence to the VET Regulations and the expectation of a high quality training provider. All assessments need to be submitted completely and adequately. Students are expected to attend seminar sessions, practical placement sessions and submit assessments on time. An enrolment form is included in this document or is available by contacting the RTO. We look forward to you joining us. Amjad Mahmood (Director) & Tim Sillcock (CEO/Academic Manager) Melbourne City Campus: Level 8, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000 (Enter from Highlander Lane) Other Campuses Contact our office Postal: 283a Bridge Road Richmond Vic 3121 Cranbourne training rooms: 182B Sladen Street Cranbourne Vic 3977 Contact: (Aust) (Int) info@nsdc.edu.au Page 3 of 20

4 Snapshot of Course Schedule: 18 Units of Study (Units of Competency) to gain CHC30113 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care qualification Units studied in CHC30113 and CHC50113 C=Core Unit E=Elective Unit Selected by the RTO Pathway to CHC50113 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care requires 28 units: 17 may be credited towards from the Cert III (leaving 11 units to complete at Diploma level). HLTWHS001 is an extra unit for Diploma students as underpinning knowledge in preparation for Practical Placement. 30 weeks of formal study and Practical Placement for Certificate III plus holiday breaks. 36 weeks are required to complete the additional units for the Diploma, plus holiday breaks. Theory and some Practical Activities are conducted during classroom delivery - see timetable for seminar durations, dates and time slots. 7 hrs per week over 1 or 2 Days of face-to-face seminars + on-line trainer directed activities. Evening & Weekend seminars available in some locations. Workplace activities and assessments are undertaken during Practical Placements. The Certificate III course is studied in 5 blocks (groups of units or subjects). The Diploma requires a further 4 blocks of units. Practical Placement is undertaken throughout the course until all workplace based assessments are completed. 120 hrs for the Certificate III and 240 hours for Diploma (includes the 120 hrs of Cert III Practical Placement). Dates and timeframes are flexible to meet student's work and family commitments. However, Practical Placement must coincide with each block of units to ensure that 'workplace activities' are completed and assessed whilst on Practical Placement. Practical Placement may be undertaken at the student's employment centre. A mix of experiences is necessary. The RTO will assist students to source suitable Practical Placement centres. Assessments for each unit are: 1. Review questions 2. Scenario and case study questions 3. Workplace activities (undertaken on Practical Placement or in a simulated workplace) See separate Delivery Timetable Over 30 weeks Core or CHC30113 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care Elective 5 wks Block 1 Introduction to Child Care C CHCLEG001 Work legally and ethically C HLTAID004 Provide an emergency first aid response in an education and care setting C HLTWHS001 Participate in workplace health and safety * 10 wks Block 2 Caring for Children C CHCECE007 Develop positive and respectful relationships with children # C CHCECE003 Provide care for children # C CHCECE005 Provide care for babies and toddlers # C CHCPRT001 Identify and respond to children and young people at risk C CHCECE004 Promote and provide healthy food and drinks C CHCECE002 Ensure the health and safety of children 7 wks Block 3 Development of Children C CHCECE009 Use an approved learning framework to guide practice C CHCECE010 Support the holistic development of children in early childhood ** # C CHCECE011 Provide experiences to support children s play and learning ** C CHCECE013 Use information about children to inform practice ** 3 wks Block 4 Delivery of Childcare E - from CHCECE020 Establish and implement plans for developing another cooperative behaviour package E - from CHCECE021 Implement strategies for the inclusion of all children another package 5 wks Block 5 Working with Diversity in Child Care E - Listed CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people** C CHCECE001 Develop cultural competence C CHCDIV002 Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety * Unit not required for CHC50113 ** Elective for CHC50113 Over 36 weeks Additional Units for CHC50113 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care 3 wks Block 6 Personal Professionalism E - listed CHCPRP003 Reflect on and improve own professional practice 21 wks Block 7 Development of Children C CHCECE017 Foster the holistic development and wellbeing of the child in early childhood ## C CHCECE018 Nurture creativity in children C CHCECE022 Promote children s agency C CHCECE023 Analyse information to inform learning C CHCECE024 Design and implement the curriculum to foster children's learning and development ## 4 wks Block 8 Wellness of Children Part 2 C CHCECE016 Establish and maintain a safe and healthy environment for children C HLTWHS003 Maintain work health and safety 8 wks Block 9 Delivery of Child Care - Part 2 C CHCECE019 Facilitate compliance in an education and care services # C CHCECE025 Embed sustainable practices in service operations C CHCECE026 Work in partnership with families to provide appropriate education and care for children # Unit must be studied over 120 hrs of Practical Placement ## Unit must be studied over 240 hrs of Practical Placement Page 4 of 20

5 About This Document This document is used to check that all information provided to prospective and current students is complete and accurate, according to Standard 5 of the Standards for Registered Training Organisation Prior to enrolment or the commencement of training and assessment, whichever comes first, National Skills Development Centre will provide, in print or through referral to an electronic copy, current and accurate information that enables the student to make informed decisions about undertaking training with National Skills Development Centre; and at a minimum, includes the content below. During the Pre-Training Interview with a National Skills Development Centre staff member, prospective students are required to sign a declaration that they have been supplied with, read and understood the information contained in this document. If the prospective student does not understand any information in this document, they must request an explanation from a National Skills Development Centre staff member or another knowledgeable adult. This information will be distributed to prospective students and enquirers by appropriate means of communication; generally through a channel nominated by the enquirer. The normal communication channels that National Skills Development Centre uses are; , post, in person, by directing the enquirer to a web site, fax, or courier. This document is distributed as support material for marketing fliers and promotion. Student Orientation Students will receive orientation information through this Prospectus, Enrolment Information and other Electronic Communication. Much of the information in this Prospectus is relevant to all Students. Students will also receive a short orientation session in their first class at the RTO. The orientation session covers the information listed below. It is important that The following units will be introduced at the beginning of the course to ensure that they may be completed over the required hours of Practical Placement. Delivery material and Assessments will be conducted at regular intervals throughout the course: CHCECE003 Provide care for children (delivered over 120 hrs of Pract Placement) CHCECE005 Provide care for babies and toddlers (delivered over 120 hrs of Pract Placement) CHCECE007 Develop positive and respectful relationships with children (delivered over 120 hrs of Pract Placement) CHCECE010 Support the holistic development of children in early childhood (delivered over 120 hrs of Pract Placement) CHCECE017 Foster the holistic development and wellbeing of the child in early childhood (delivered over 240 hrs of Pract Placement) CHCECE019 Facilitate compliance in an education and care services (delivered over 120 hrs of Pract Placement) CHCECE024 Design and implement the curriculum to foster children's learning and development (delivered over 240 hrs of Pract Placement) students attend the orientation programme otherwise they may miss out on information that affects their study. The purpose of the orientation session is to fully inform new students of most aspects of life at the RTO and to provide an introduction to studying at the RTO. Prior to commencement of class Students should locate and read the following information in this Prospectus; Student support Assessment Recognition of prior learning / Mutual Recognition RTO contact people Complaints and appeals Plagiarism and cheating Student code of behaviour Attendance expectations Keeping address and contact details up-to-date RTO facilities and resources Student Mutual Recognition application form Student deferral, suspension or cancellation application form Student refund application form Student RPL application form Student complaints and appeals Director: Amjad Mahmood CEO: Tim Sillcock Phone: info@nsdc.edu.au RTO Contact Details Postal: 283a Bridge Road Richmond Vic 3121 CBD Training Rooms: Level 8 / 474 Flinders Street Melbourne Vic 3000 Other Training Locations: Please refer to specific delivery schedules Page 5 of 20

6 In your first class At the commencement of the first session the trainer will detail and explain the following: Learning and assessment programme OH&S Facilities and equipment Assessment requirements, including the right to reattempts for assessments Practical Placement arrangements Use of Moodle to access and submit assessments and study material Other questions Course Purpose & Target Group The purpose of this course is to provide students with the skills and qualifications that they need to be successful in the gaining work in the Children s Services Industry. National Skills Development Centre has identified three main groups of possible clientele who would typically be: people who are new to working in the children s services sector people who are experienced within this vocational area and want to gain a formal qualification those who are currently working in children s Services Industry, and want to gain a Certificate III level qualification in order to comply with the legislative requirements. The qualification reflects the role of workers in a range of early childhood education settings who work within the requirements of the Education and Care Services National Regulations and the National Quality Standard. They support the implementation of an approved learning framework, and support children s wellbeing, learning and development. Under the Education and Care Services National Law (2011) the Australian Children s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) publishes lists of approved early childhood education and care qualifications. Information regarding regulatory requirements can be found at The volume of learning has been considered. The duration of 30 weeks for Cert III plus 36 additional weeks for Diploma of study time, plus holiday periods, is considered suitable for students who are accepted by the National Skills Development Centre. Students will be able to apply the knowledge and skills learned in the course to their workplaces or, if not working, to the stimulated workplace and practical placement workplaces offered in the course. This will aid their understanding of the knowledge and concepts in the course. Students may take longer to complete the course requirements, or by negotiation with the RTO, complete the course over a shorter period. Students who have completed units for either course will be given credit for those units. Practical Work Placement Arrangements have been agreed for Practical Work Placement for students at a number of Centres. Please contact the college if specific details are required prior to pre-enrolment orientation. Students will be allocated to dates and times during their first two weeks of the commencement of the course. Students may select their own Practical Work Placement centres by discussing it with the Training Manager and Trainer. Page 6 of 20

7 Fees, Refund Arrangements & Payment Schedule See Appendix 1 for Government Funding Eligibility Fees All students are required to pay a non-refundable enrolment fee of $150. Students are required to organise their own travel to Practical Placement locations at their own expense. Students will require their own computer or ready access to one at home. Computers are available at the RTO's Flinders Street training rooms for students to use free of charge. Free Internet is available for students in the RTO's training rooms when required; to which students may connect their own laptops if they wish. The fees applicable to this course and category of student are as follows: 1. Government Funded Places in Victoria, if eligible: - Nil tuition fees. (Students are charged the enrolment fee as above and are required to purchase text books) This training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding. 2. Full fee paying students (those ineligible for any funding): tuition fee of $6,216. The additional tuition fee for the Diploma is $6,600. (Students are charged an enrolment fee of $150). 3. Full fee paying students (those ineligible for any funding), may apply for a "Fee Subsidy Bursary" from National Skills Development Centre. Please contact the RTO for details and an application form. The student tuition fees as published are subject to change given individual circumstances at enrolment Fee payment Schedule for Full Fee Students (Non-Government funded) Additional payment plans may be negotiated with the RTO for full fee paying students. Students should contact the RTO office prior to enrolment or at any time in which they face financial hardship or need to change payment dates Payment Due Amount Full Fees Government Funded Place At Enrolment $150 (non-refundable enrolment fee) $150 (non-refundable enrolment fee) Prior to Commencement Cert III - $1,216 Nil Further equal monthly instalments $1,000 per month x 5 months Nil Additional Instalments for Diploma $1,000 per month x 6 months, plus $600 final instalment Total Payable Cert III: $6,216 + $150 = $6,366 Diploma: $6,216 + $6,600 + $150 = $12,966 $150 Training Materials included in fees Student requested refunds After a deposit or instalment payment is made the refund arrangement is as follows: Once the enrolment fee ($150) has been paid and the application is accepted as a confirmed enrolment, the enrolment fee is not refundable. Refund requests for fees paid in advance must be in writing, signed and dated by the student, and delivered to National Skills Development Centre in person, by fax, or post. Refunds for fees due to financial hardship or other compassionate grounds will be considered on a case-by-case basis. The RTO endeavours to not apply any form of hardship upon students. Hardship claims must be supported by evidence, such as third party testimonial, medical certificate or other evidence agreed by the RTO. Refunds for units not commenced will be approved by the RTO. The RTO reserves the right to charge an administration fee. The RTO Page 7 of 20

8 will retain the fees paid for the current month and for all units commenced. Delayed commencement or non-commencement In the unlikely event that National Skills Development Centre is unable to commence the course or deliver the course in full, students will be offered a refund of any tuition fees they have paid for units not delivered and/or not assessed. No refund will be granted for units that have been delivered and assessed. The refund amount will be: The initial fee payment and any instalment payments received by National Skills Development Centre if the course does not commence; A pro rata amount for any units not delivered and assessed at the time the course is cancelled. The value of each unit is deemed to be the total course fee divided equally by the number of units in the course. The refund will be paid to the student within 2 weeks of the day on which the course ceased being provided. Alternatively, and if available, students may be offered enrolment in an alternative course by National Skills Development Centre at no extra cost to them. The alternative course may be provided by National Skills Development Centre or another institution. Students have the right to choose whether they would prefer a refund of course fees, or to accept a place in another course. If they choose a placement in another course, the RTO will ask students to sign a document to indicate that they accept the placement in the other course without receiving a refund. Missed payments Students who do not make instalment payments by the due date will be excluded from attendance and have their enrolment suspended for the lesser of two weeks or until the missed instalment payment is made. If the missed instalment payment has not been made at the end of the two-week suspension the student will have their enrolment cancelled. Fee changes Prior to a student enrolling, fees may be altered without notice. Once a student has completed the enrolment process and paid the deposit in full, fees will not be subject to change for the normal duration of the course. If the course length is extended by the student, then any fee increases will be required to be paid for the extended component of the course. Other Information Student Records Students must notify the RTO of changes of address, telephone number, address and fax number within 7 days of the change. This is required so that students can be contacted and receive important information which may affect their course or their enrolment. Certificates Students are entitled, at no additional cost, to a formal Statement of Attainment upon course withdrawal or cancellation, prior to completing the qualification, provided the student has paid in full for the tuition related to the units of competency to be shown on the Statement of Attainment. Course credentials (awards, statements of attainment, transcripts) will not be issued to students who are in breach of any part of their enrolment conditions. RTO facilities and resources National Skills Development Centre has facilities to deliver training in the courses on its scope. These include: Conference / seminar / training rooms suitable for each class size. These are hired for specific classes and are selected at suitable locations for students, course and RTO needs Page 8 of 20

9 Projectors, white boards and other equipment. Students should have access to a computer at home and may bring laptops to class if they wish. Computers will need to have Microsoft Office or an equivalent software programme. WiFi and Internet connections are available at the RTOs main locations, however, are not necessary to undertake the face-to-face sessions. Course assessment A number of approaches to course assessment are used by RTO staff. Assessment approaches may include: observation of performance in class or a work environment, workshops, case studies, projects, assignments, presentations, role plays and written review questions. The course does not have exams or tests. Students will be given advance warning of the time and form of any assessment and will not be expected to sit an assessment for which they have not prepared. Not attending for a scheduled assessment will be counted as an assessment attempt unless: a) the student can provide a certificate from a registered medical practitioner indicating that the student was medically unable to attend the assessment; or b) the student can provide independent evidence of exceptional compassionate circumstances beyond the students control, such as serious illness or death of a close family member to explain the non-attendance at the assessment Course delivery A number of approaches to course delivery are used by RTO staff. Course delivery approaches may include teacher led classroom delivery, workshops, seminars, tutorials, workplace activities and observations, and supervised study. During class time students will be expected to participate by, for example, answering questions, giving opinions, demonstrating tasks, working with others in groups, making presentations and role playing situations. Attendance Students are expected to attend all face-to-face seminars. If students are unable to attend, they should contact the RTO's office so that catch-up arrangements can be scheduled. This might involve additional out-of seminar reading or reviewing class notes. Pathways Pathways into courses may be from holding a lower level qualification in the same or similar field of study or from suitable work experience. However, prospective students should refer to the entry requirements in this document for further details. After successfully completing the course, Graduates may apply to study a higher-level course in the field of study. Graduates of the RTO may also seek credits for relevant degree programs in Australian Universities. The RTO has no special arrangements with any Australian University and there is no guaranteed entry into University programs. Qualifications to be issued Students completing all assessment requirements for a qualification will be awarded a certificate corresponding to the completed course. Certificates will be issued within 30 days (providing all course fees are paid in full). Students completing assessment requirements for part of a qualification will be awarded a Statement of Attainment indicating which units of competency they have completed. Students are entitled, at no additional cost, to a formal Statement of Attainment on withdrawal, cancellation or transfer, prior to completing the qualification, provided the student has paid in full for the tuition related to the units of competency to be shown on the Statement of Attainment. Credit transfer Credit transfer applies to situation where students have completed units at another provider identical to those they are currently enrolled. Credit will be granted in accordance with the Credit Transfer procedure. To apply for credit transfer students must complete the credit transfer application form and attach copies of verified documents to support the application. A reduction in tuition fees will be applied if Credit Transfer is granted. Recognition of prior learning (RPL) Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process designed to recognise previous formal or informal learning, work and life experiences that the student may have had to the extent that they are relevant to the course competencies and outcomes. The RPL process allows students to receive recognition under these circumstances and therefore enable them to focus more on areas they need to achieve competencies in order to gain their qualifications. Students who believe they already have some of the competencies in the course may apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). An essential requirement of RPL is that you can prove that you currently have the required competencies in the unit applied for. An RPL application may only be made after enrolment and payment of fees and must be made using the RTO Page 9 of 20

10 RPL application form that will be available during orientation. The normal fee for the unit will apply for units assessed through RPL. RPL in a unit will only be granted if students complete the RTO RPL assessment requirements for that unit. Quality of Training The CHC30113 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care course and CHC50113 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care course are nationally recognised courses under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). National Skills Development Centre is responsible for the quality of the training and assessment in compliance with the Standards for Registered Training Organisation 2015 (under the National Vocational Education and Training Regulator). It is responsible for the issuance of the AQF certification documentation. Students must demonstrate competency in all aspects of each unit to gain a qualification certificate. Contextualisation to Workplace Settings National Skills Development Centre ensures that training is delivered to the standards of a real workplace environment. To meet this requirement National Skills Development Centre has implemented a Entry Requirements Any adult (18+ yrs) Australian Resident with an interest in working in the Early Childhood industry and those already working in the industry who need a qualification. It is necessary for students to own, or have ready access to, a computer with Microsoft Office or equivalent software, and a willingness to learn. Students will require a Working With Children (WWC) card to undertake Practical Placement for the course. Trainers will outline the process for acquiring the WWC card during the orientation session in the course introductory block. Prospective students must demonstrate they have sound literacy and numeracy skills to a standard of at least Australian Year 12 or Australian Certificate IV, or an equivalent. The RTO requires all Candidates to undertake a paperbased or on-line literacy and numeracy test prior to enrolment/application being accepted. Typical tests that are used by National Skills Development Centre are: A brief writing and oral test that is included with the enrolment kit. variety of assessment tools that will be implemented during the delivery of the qualification. These assessment tools assess various elements of a real/actual workplace however in a simulated training environment. However, many assessment activities are required to be performed in a real 'regulated' child care centre and are undertaken whilst on Practical Placement. National Skills Development Centre meets the need for a real-time workplace simulation environment by: National Skills Development Centre trainers representing the role of a real client and portray the workplace demands while working on projects. This includes role-play of difficult & diverse type customers. Learners prepare time lines, schedule milestones, communicate, prepare documentation, conduct training in accordance with a simulated client (trainer) Working as a team (group work/assignments), fulfilling responsibilities and expectations of the job and workplace. Undertaking assessment tasks using real organisations as a medium for study. Foundation Skills Assessment Tool (FSAT) - Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) Prior to commencement a review of each student s previous education, training and work experience and career goals will be conducted in order to determine if there is a need to recognise existing competencies through recognition of prior learning and / or mutual recognition and to determine if this course is suitable for the student to achieve their career goals. Exemption for USI Personal Objection - Learners who have a genuine personal objection to being assigned a USI may apply for an exemption to the Student Identifiers Registrar. Refugees who may wish to apply for an exemption will be considered on a case by case basis as with any other individual. To apply for an exemption, they must complete the Commonwealth Statutory Declaration form and send it to the Registrar at the following address: Student Identifiers Registrar C/- Department of Education and Training GPO Box 9880 Canberra ACT 2601 Page 10 of 20

11 Offshore international students - Exemptions are provided for an individual where the individual is an offshore international student studying outside of Australia. Where an exemption applies, results will not be included in the USI system Course Outcomes Student are required to achieve competency in all units in order to complete the course. Student will undergo: An introduction process explaining the units of competency and the training and assessment program. A review of the available units of competency that may be selected. The units of competency to be included in a participant s training program will be determined by discussions with the student, an employer representative (where applicable) and a National Skills Development Centre representative. An induction into the training program A review and sign off of the training plan The format for delivery/assessment will be designed around a program involving a combination of review of existing skills, gap training as appropriate, theory sessions as appropriate and assessment both on the job and if required in a suitably equipped simulated workplace. Delivery Schedule Classes are delivered on week-days and weekends at the RTO s training rooms. Students may nominate which classes they attend. In addition to face-to-face seminars, students will be required to undertake assignments, further reading and workbook exercises, and on-line exercises, through Moodle, each week. The daily face-to-face programme is as follows: Class Times Activity 9:00-9:30 am Trainer consultation with individuals and small groups 9:30-12:30 pm Learning - Theory &/or Workplace Activity Preparation and Simulated Assessment 1:30-4:30 Learning - Theory &/or Workplace Activity Preparation and Simulated Assessment 4:30-5:00 Trainer consultation with individuals and small groups In addition to the face-to-face contact hours, students will work through material delivered by the trainer on Moodle (on-line platform) for approximately 7 hours each week. Students should allocate approximately 9 hours each week to the study materials (text books and assessments) and about 7 hrs per week to Practical Placement. Students ae required to perform 120 hours of Practical Placement in a regulated child care centre for Certificate III and 240 hours for the Diploma. The RTO will assist students to find work placements as locations convenient to them and will encourage students to gain a variety of experiences. Please refer to the course delivery schedule in for dates, units to be studied and work placement requirements. Classes do not run during RTO holidays (usually aligned with school holidays but are usually not the full school holidays) or on public holidays It is possible to begin the course at any time when a new block of units begin. Please speak to the RTO to discuss the most suitable arrangements for entry and refer to the delivery schedule in the appendix of this document. Course Materials For the CHC30113 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and CHC50113 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care courses, National Skills Development Centre currently uses contextualised training material that accompanies the text book series by Karen Kearns. Textbooks are critical to the delivery of the course and must be purchased by the student. These are not included in the course fees. Other material, videos, articles, books, magazines will be introduced to classes as appropriate. National Skills Development Centre reserves the right to substitute material with another supplier or material developed in-house that is more suited to the student group. Assessment The assessment of this course includes; written questions, case studies projects, oral questioning and workplace activities. Assessments may be adjusted to meet individual s needs, if special circumstances apply. Each unit has an individual assessment tool and mapping process which establishes the detailed assessment methodology including: Outlining the assessment methods Providing instructions for the assessor Providing instructions for the students Being mapped to the unit of competency through a separate mapping document Assessment evidence used for this qualification and target group will be a mix from the following: Recognition of Prior Learning/Recognition of Current Competency Page 11 of 20

12 Written/Oral questions Practical assessments in simulated workplaces and real workplaces Case studies and scenarios Observation/discussion during Practical Placement. Students are entitled to apply for re-assessment for each unit 'judged' as 'not yet competent'. Students will be required to undertake additional training between assessment attempts to assist them to attain the required competency for the unit. National Skills Development Centre will ensure that a suitably equipped study environment is available for training and assessment processes. Assessment Process All assessment must be accompanied by an Assessment Cover Sheet; that will contain the following information: student name student I.D. number code and name of training product code and name of unit or module trainer/assessor s name date of assessment declaration by the student of stating that the assessment is their own original work and they have not plagiarised or used model answers. student signature. If submitting electronically, this may be substituted with a login footprint into a Learning Management System (LMS), such as Moodle, that contains a unique student log-in and a similar declaration at the time of submitting the assessment electronically. Assessment submitted by must contain the student declaration and be submitted through the student s personal account that is registered with the RTO. declaration by the assessor indicating they have taken reasonable steps to check that the student is in fact the person who is working towards the award, student s assessment is their own work, they have not plagiarised, copied or colluded or used model answers and that appropriate feedback has been offered. signature of the assessor - if the assessment is submitted and assessed through an electronic system, such an LMS, an alternative to a physical signature may be accepted; such as an electronic signature or a unique log-in for the assessor. feedback for the student assessment outcome: Competent (C) or Not Yet Competent (NYC) During assessment evaluation, a marking guide will be used to assist with consistency of assessment and to ensure that the judgement aligns with the requirements of the unit or module. It will outline evidence criteria used to judge the quality of performance (i.e. the assessment decision-making rules) All assessments, cover sheets and marking guides will be securely retained by the RTO for a period of no less than 6 months from the completion of the unit or module being assessed (or 2 years or more if required by a funding body), in a manner that safeguards them against unauthorised access, fire, flood, termites or any other pests, and which ensures that copies of records can be produced if the originals are destroyed or become inaccessible. To collect the evidence and make the assessment decision the assessor will: Establish and oversee the evidence gathering process, and evaluate the evidence, in terms of the principles of assessment (fairness, flexibility, validity, reliability) and the rules of evidence (validity, sufficiency, authenticity and currency) For each unit of competency, collect appropriate evidence and assess this against the Unit Elements, Performance Criteria, Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence, and Assessment Conditions. Use a range of assessment methods and evidence gathering contexts to ensure that the student is able to apply the skills and knowledge in more than one situation. Evaluate evidence in terms of the three dimensions of evidence performance evidence, knowledge evidence and assessment conditions, or as defined by the training package Incorporate allowable adjustments to the assessment procedure without compromising the integrity of the competencies Ensure that the evidence gathered is a demonstration of that student s skills and knowledge and is not misrepresented. Check that the evidence gathered and presented is current and shows that the student is competent at the time of the assessment decision Page 12 of 20

13 Consult and work with other staff in the assessment process, as required, including moderation of assessment judgements Record details of evidence collected Make a judgement about the student's competency based on the evidence and the relevant Unit[s] of Competency. Provide feedback on the assessment and advice to the student about the outcomes of the assessment process Outline the assessment appeals process prior to commencing each unit and with any student who is not satisfied with the assessment outcome. Reasonable Adjustment To meet the needs of all students, adjustments can be made to the way assessments are conducted but not to the requirements of the assessment. The purpose of these adjustments is to enhance fairness and flexibility so that the specific needs of students can be met. Examples of reasonable adjustments include; providing additional time for student to practice the assessment tasks presenting questions orally for students with literacy issues asking questions in a relevant practical context adapting machinery and equipment to make it more easily used presenting work instructions in diagrammatic or pictorial form instead of words and sentences simplifying the design of job tasks It is the responsibility of each assessor to assess student s needs and make whatever reasonable adjustments are practicable to maximise a student s opportunity to demonstrate their competence Plagiarism and cheating Plagiarism is a form of cheating. It is taking and using someone else's thoughts, writings or inventions and representing them as your own. Plagiarism is a serious act and may result in a student s exclusion from a unit or a course. When students have any doubts about including the work of other authors in their assessments, they must consult with their trainer to discuss the matter. The following list outlines some of the activities for which a student can be suspected of plagiarism or cheating: Presenting any work by another individual as one's own unintentionally Handing in assessments markedly similar to or copied from another student. Presenting the work of another individual or group as their own work. Allowing another student to copy their work Handing up assessments without the adequate acknowledgement of sources used, including assessments taken totally or in part from the Internet. Legitimate cooperation between students on assignments is encouraged, since it can be a real aid to understanding. It is legitimate for students to discuss assignment questions at a general level, provided everybody involved makes some contribution. However, students must produce their own individual written solutions. Copying someone else s work is plagiarism, and is unacceptable. Copyright Students must be careful when photocopying the work of others. The owner of the material may take legal action against students of the RTO if the owner's copyright has been infringed. Students are allowed to do a certain amount of photocopying for research or study purposes. Generally, 10% or one chapter of a book is acceptable, where the participant is studying with, or employed by, an educational institution. Student support, welfare and behaviour Access and equity policy The RTO Code of Practice includes an access and equity policy. This document is available on request. It is the responsibility of all staff to ensure the requirements of the access and equity policy are met at all times. Special Needs Students with any special needs must discuss their requirements with the RTO prior to enrolment so that the RTO can make any necessary adjustments to delivery, course content, assessment, timing of assessment, course material or other criteria. Special needs adjustments are not restricted to any particular needs, and include amongst others, issues related to physical disabilities, learning difficulties, language, culture, religion and age. Students at Risk National Skills Development Centre has Intervention Strategies, including external Student Support Services available to enable students to complete the qualification in the expected time frame. Students 'At Page 13 of 20

14 Risk' of not completing within this time frame are identified as early as possible. Students failing to achieve a competent result in any unit are automatically regarded as being a Student At Risk, as all units have been determined as being of primary importance to success in the qualification. Complaints and appeals procedure The RTO has a complaints and appeals procedure to provide students with a fair and equitable process for resolving any complaints or appeals they may have. The complaints and appeals procedure includes a requirement that an independent mediator will be appointed if the student is dissatisfied with the process undertaken by the RTO. If they have a complaint or appeal students should take the following steps: Contact the RTO Administration Coordinator to obtain a copy of the complaints and appeals procedure and the application form (as summary of the complaints and appeals procedure is outlined at the end of this document) Complete the application form and lodge it with the Administration Coordinator Follow up with the Administration Coordinator If students are unhappy or they don t agree with the result of the assessment, they are advised to speak with the Trainer/Assessor. The Trainer/Assessor must provide an explanation regarding the outcome they have given. They may also provide an alternate assessment in order to help the student achieve competency. However, if they are still unhappy, the trainer will refer the student to the Training Manager; or advise them that they can access the Complaints and Appeal Policy and Procedure to lodge an appeal. A summary of the complaints & appeals procedure is included in Appendix 2 of this booklet. Student Support Services Internal Support Services include: Area of Support Study assistance / Assessment Submission Extensions Course and Career Guidance Fees Payments & Arrangements Complaints and Appeals (see separate policy & procedure) Contact Person Trainers / Training Manager / Academic Manager Trainers / Training Manager / Academic Manager Admin Manager / Academic Manager Any staff member with whom the student feels comfortable External Support Services include: Service Organisation Contact details Medical Urgent All Medical Emergencies Phone 000 and ask for ambulance Medical Non-urgent Dental Emergency Mental health care St Vincent s Hospital Emergency Department The Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne and DHSV. Patient enquiries Phone Medical Advice Phone Victoria Parade Fitzroy Victoria 3065 Trauma Trauma advice and referral Phone Drug & Alcohol DirectLine drug and alcohol referral The Emergency Department is on Level 1 of The Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne, 720 Swanston Street, Carlton (opposite Melbourne university) Phone hr direct referrals hr/7day Finance advice Money Help Phone Legal Services Victorian Legal Aid Phone Family assistance Lifeline Phone Migration Services Australia Migration Services (3) Dyslexia Australian Dyslexia Association www. dyslexia.association@gmail.com Impaired Vision Vision Australia Page 14 of 20

15 Phone Impaired Hearing Deaf Australia Phone/TTY: (03) Family Matters Australian Institute of Family Studies www. aifs.gov.au Indigenous Health Victorian Aboriginal Health Service Phone Academic support Psychology Melbourne Phone Source of reference material, rather than a support service Relevant legislation A range of legislation is applicable to all staff and students. Information on relevant legislation can be found at the following websites. It is the responsibility of all staff and students to ensure the requirements of relevant legislation are met at all times. Use the web sites indicated, or contact the Administration Coordinator if you require further information. There may be additional, course-specific, legislation that is relevant. Information about this legislation will be communicated during the course. Occupational Health & Safety Equal opportunity RTO registration Education and Training reform Act Fair Work Australia WorkSafe Victoria Victorian Equal Opportunity & Human Rights Commission Australian Skills Quality Authority Department of Education and Early Childhood Development Fair Work Australia RTO code of behaviour The RTO Code of Behaviour requires the following rights and expectation to be respected and adhered to at all times. The right to be treated with respect from others, to be treated fairly and without discrimination, regardless of religious, cultural, racial and sexual differences, age, disability or socio-economic status The right to be free from all forms of intimidation The right to work in a safe, clean, orderly and cooperative environment The right to have personal property (including computer files and student work) and the Registered Training Organisation property protected from damage or other misuse The right to have any disputes settled in a fair and rational manner (this is accomplished by the Complaints and Appeals Procedure) The right to work and learn in a supportive environment without interference from others The right to express and share ideas and to ask questions The right to be treated with politeness and courteously at all times The expectation that students and staff will not engage in copyright breaches, cheating or plagiarism The expectation that students will submit work when required. The expectation that students will maintain consistent participation by attending all required classes and assessments. The expectation that students will attend all required classes and assessment as part of the requirement to progress through the course satisfactorily and complete the course in within the time frame notified on the student enrolment form. For non-compliance of students with the Code of Conduct the following procedure for discipline will be followed: A member of the RTO staff will contact students in the first instance and arrange a counselling meeting to discuss the issue or behaviour & to determine how the issue might be rectified. This meeting and its outcomes will be documented, signed by all parties and included on the student s personal file. (Step 1) Page 15 of 20

16 Where there is a second breach of the Student Code of Behaviour, students will be invited for a personal interview with the Training/Academic Manager to discuss the breaches further. This meeting and its outcomes will be documented, signed by all parties and included on the student s personal file. (Step 2) Should a third breach of the RTO Code of Behaviour occur after the stage 2 meeting, the student will be provided with a final warning in writing & a time frame in which to rectify the issue. A copy of this letter will be included on the student s personal file. (Step 3) After the three steps in the discipline procedure have been followed, and breaches of the Code of Behaviour still continue, training services will be withdrawn and the individual will be sent a suspension or cancellation letter. Failure to attend scheduled meetings may result in the RTO deciding to suspend or cancel a student s enrolment or staff member's employment At any stage of this procedure individuals are able to access the RTO complaints and appeals procedure to settle any disputes that may arise. Change of address and contact details Students are required to advise the RTO of their residential address and telephone number and of any subsequent changes to their residential address and telephone number whilst enrolled in a course. It is the student's responsibility and in their own interests to ensure that they always update their address details at the RTO to ensure they receive important information that the RTO may send to them from time to time. On commencement and at least every six months whilst they are enrolled at the RTO students will be asked to review and update their contact information with the RTO. Student initiated deferral or suspension of enrolment Students may initiate a request to defer commencement of studies or suspend their studies. Students wishing to defer the commencement of studies or suspend their studies must apply to do so in writing to the RTO using the student deferral, suspension or cancellation application form or in writing by , fax or post. Student cancellation of enrolment Cancellation of enrolment will trigger the refund arrangements in the agreement between the RTO and the client organisation. Students who cancel their enrolment and think a refund is due must apply for a refund. Refund applications must be made in writing to the RTO Administration Coordinator. The refund application form, available from the RTO, may be used as the written application. Written applications for refunds will also be accepted by mail or by . Refunds will be made within 28 days of receipt of a written application RTO initiated suspension or cancellation of enrolment The RTO may decide to suspend or cancel a student s enrolment on its own initiative as a response to breaching the student code of behaviour through misbehaviour, a poor academic record or poor attendance by the student. If the RTO is intending to initiate a suspension or cancellation of enrolment a warning letter will be sent to the student s currently notified address. Students who wish to complain or appeal against the RTO suspension or cancellation are requested to respond within 20 days. National Skills Development Centre's withdrawal policy allows a period of approximately four months for students to respond to requests for discussion, or return of enrolment withdrawal forms, as often a student's non-attendance or lack of response to contact from the RTO is due to overseas travel, pregnancy/child birth, family issues or sickness. Therefore, the RTO endeavours to not be too hasty to cancel enrolments before seeking advice from students. RTO deferral of commencement The RTO may also decide to defer the commencement of a course. If the RTO defers the commencement of a course the provider default conditions in the agreement between the RTO and the client organisation will be triggered and the RTO will be obliged to repay any unspent pre-paid fees received by the RTO in respect of the student within 14 days of the date of deferral unless alternative arrangements can be made which are acceptable to students. Use of personal information It is a requirement of the Australian Quality Training Framework that students can access personal information held by the RTO and may request corrections to information that are incorrect or out of date. Students must apply to the Administration Coordinator using the student records request form if they wish to view their own records. Once the request has been approved the Administration Coordinator will arrange a time for them to view their own records. They must view their records at the RTO and they cannot take records away from the RTO. Consumer rights Page 16 of 20

17 The jurisdiction of legal protection will be Victoria, unless determined by relevant State Government laws if the training is delivered in another state. Learners, and prospective learners are protected under several Australian laws, including, but not limited to the following: Vocational Education & Training (VET) regulations Administered by ASQA (Australian Skills Quality Authority). All Registered Training Organizations (RTOs) are monitored and audited by ASQA for quality and adherence to regulations Australian Consumer Law Contained in a schedule to the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 A basic set of guarantees for consumers who acquire goods and services from Australian suppliers, importers or manufacturers, under $40,000. These are intended to ensure that you receive the goods or services that you have paid for. The consumer guarantees only apply to goods and services purchased on or after 1 January Occupational Health & Safety regulations Equal opportunity laws Fair Work Australia laws Each state has its own work safety department, such as Work Care in Victoria. They monitor the health and safety of workplace and the health and wellbeing of all people who attend the work place. Anti-discrimination Commission applies to staff, learners and everyone else associated with the organisation. Also applies to the General Public. Monitors and determine how workers must be treated by employers mainly to protect staff It is the responsibility of all staff and learners to ensure the requirements of relevant legislation are met at all times. Use the web sites indicated, or contact the Administration Coordinator if you require further information. There may be additional, course-specific, legislation that is relevant. Information about this legislation will be communicated during the course. Changes in ownership, third party arrangements and Course Structure Where there are any changes to agreed services, and National Skills Development Centre will advise the learner as soon as practicable, including in relation to any new third party arrangements, or a change in ownership, or changes to existing third party arrangements, changes to the course structure, delivery, resources used or any other criteria that might affect the course outcomes or the study method. The National Skills Development Centre will notify learners by (or alternative medium, if is not available) of changes. Third party arrangements Currently, National Skills Development Centre does not have any third party arrangements in place for training delivery and assessment. If, in the future, any arrangement is arranged with a third party to deliver any recruitment or delivery and assessment services to National Skills Development Centre or by National Skills Development Centre, all interested parties will be notified of the details of the arrangement (including learners, ASQA, trainers). The RTO accepts student referrals from third parties under negotiated agreements. Appendix 1 VET Fee Help and Other Funding VET Fee Help is not offered for this course by National Skills Development Centre. National Skills Development Centre has arrangements for Government funding in Victoria for eligible students. Government Funding Page 17 of 20

18 Eligibility in Victoria The following information taken from: Generally, you are eligible for a government-subsidised training place if you are: an Australian citizen an Australian Permanent Resident (holder of a permanent visa) a New Zealand citizen and are any of the following: under 20 years of age seeking to enrol in a Foundation Skills List course (and do not hold a Diploma or above qualification or are receiving core skills training in other sectors) seeking to enrol in VCE or VCAL seeking to enrol in an apprenticeship 20 years and older and upskilling by seeking to enrol in a course at a higher level than your existing qualification. If you are enrolled at a school, you will not be able to receive a government-subsidised training place for a course through the Victorian Training Guarantee, unless you are undertaking the course as part of a School-Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship. The Government supports schools in other ways to offer vocational training to their students, so you should discuss all your options with your school. You can also check what you may be eligible for using the interactive Victorian Skills Gateway Eligibility Indicator at: you need to be an ay/students/pages/vtg-eligibility-indicator.aspx Appendix 2 - Complaints Process Complaints & Appeals Process Summary Informal Complaint Process A student with an issue, question or complaint may raise the matter with staff of National Skills Development Centre and attempt an informal resolution of the complaint. Students with an issue, question or complaint can arrange a meeting to discuss the matter with one of the following RTO staff members who are responsible to try and resolve the issue, question or complaint with the student: Trainer Training Manager Administration Manager The staff member will try and resolve the issue at the meeting or if required investigate the matter and then arrange another meeting with the student to discuss the outcome of investigation and offer a solution if appropriate. Students who are not satisfied with the outcome of their discussion of the complaint are encouraged to register a formal complaint by: Obtaining a copy of the Student complaint form which can be requested from the Administration Manager; Page 18 of 20

19 Completing the Student complaint form; Lodging the Student complaint form with the Administration Manager. Students having difficulty completing the Student complaint form should ask a trainer, the Training Manager, the Administration Manager or another adult to assist them. Once the Student complaint form is lodged with the Administration Manager it will be dealt with as described in the formal complaint process below. Formal Complaint Process Complaints must be lodged within 2 weeks of the issue arising. The formal complaint process will commence within 5 working days of the formal lodgement of the complaint or appeal and supporting information. A maximum time of 10 working days from the commencement of the formal complaint process will be allowed for the resolution unless all parties agree in writing to extend this time. This period is called the resolution phase. If National Skills Development Centre considers that more than 60 calendar days are required to process and finalise the complaint or appeal, it will: inform the complainant or appellant in writing, including the reasons that more than 60 calendar days are required, and regularly update the complainant or appellant on the progress of the matter Formal complaints must be lodged using the Student complaint form that can be requested from the Administration Manager. Formal complaints must be recorded in the student s files During the formal complaint process: Students will have an opportunity to formally present their case to the Administration Manager, in writing or in person at no cost to the student Students may be accompanied and assisted by a support person at any meetings involving the complaint. Only the Training Manager, the Administration Manager or the Chief Executive Officer can deal with complaints. Whoever 'hears' the complaint must not be the subject of the complaint and cannot be involved in subsequent appeal hearing. In the event that the Training Manager, the Administration Manager and the Chief Executive Officer are not eligible to hear the complaint then the complaint must be directed to an external person at no cost to the student. The external person to hear a student complaint on behalf of a student is to be engaged from the Institute of Arbitrators and Mediators Australia (IAMA) phone (03) Internal Appeal Process - assessment Students appealing an assessment decision (including RPL) will be given the opportunity for reassessment by a different assessor selected by National Skills Development Centre. Costs of reassessment will met by National Skills Development Centre. The recorded outcome from the assessment appeal will be the most favourable result for the student from either the original assessment or the reassessment. Only one assessment appeal will be allowed. The outcome of an internal appeal and reasons for the outcome will be recorded in writing and signed and dated by the student and National Skills Development Centre and placed in the student file. A copy of this document will be provided to the student. There are no further avenues within National Skills Development Centre for complaints or appeals after the internal appeals process has been completed, however an external appeals process is available Page 19 of 20

20 External Appeal Process Students who are not satisfied with the process undertaken for an internal appeal are encouraged to make an external appeal by: Obtaining a copy of the Student appeal form which can be found in the student handbook or be requested from the reception desk or the Training Manager Completing the Student appeal form and selecting the External appeal option on the form. Lodging the Student appeal form with Training Manager The purpose of the external appeals process is to consider whether National Skills Development Centre has followed its student complaint and appeals procedure, not to make a decision in place of National Skills Development Centre. For example, if a student appeals against his or her subject results and goes through National Skills Development Centre internal appeals process, the external appeals process (if accessed) would look at the way in which the internal appeal was conducted; it would not make a determination as to what the subject result should be. For external appeals the independent mediator will be the IAMA (Institute of Arbitrators and Mediators Australia) phone (03) The cost of mediation is to be shared equally between the parties involved in mediation. The external appeals procedure will be determined by the IAMA. Following the receipt of the outcome of the external appeal National Skills Development Centre must immediately implement the decision, convey the outcome to the student, place a copy of the documentation on the student file and undertake any improvement actions arising from the complaint. Page 20 of 20