There is a proposal in NSW to move away from a time based model to a competency based progression model. This would mean that an apprentice could progress on competencies achieved as agreed to, in the individual training plan, rather than using the current time served approach.
This method would allow for the registered training organisation (RTO) and the employer to determine when competency is achieved. The RTO will be responsible for the assessment process and will progressively enter and maintain records of the apprentice’s progress in their system.
After the assessment, the RTO will confirm the results with the employer before placing the results on the student’s record system. On an agreed basis, the RTO will provide reports of progressive competency achievements to both the employer and the apprentice.
The Metals and Engineering sector was the first in NSW to introduce competency based progression in its apprenticeships. The metals industry supports these arrangements where there is adequate quality assurance that competency is actually demonstrated through an appropriate combination of on and off the job training and experience.
The current Vehicle Manufacturing, Repair, Services & Retail Award allows for automotive apprentices to progress through the four stage wage structure and complete their apprenticeship on the basis of competency, rather than the traditional time served model.
The competency based progression approach would offer the automotive industry a greater opportunity to communicate directly with their RTO and participate in a process of determining an accurate assessment of where an individual apprentice is at.
The information below demonstrates how it is proposed that competency based progression and completion arrangements could apply within the automotive trades.
Stage of apprenticeship
Stage 1 - Entry: Nil entry requirements Stage 2 - Entry: An apprentice enters Stage 2 on attainment of 25% of the units of competency for the relevant AQF qualification specified in the training plan or
12 months after commencing the apprenticeship* *whichever is earlier Stage 3 - Entry: An apprentice enters Stage 3 on attainment of 50% of the units of competency for the relevant AQF qualification specified in the training plan or
12 months after commencing Stage 2**whichever is earlier Stage 4 - Entry: An apprentice enters Stage 4 on attainment of 75% of the units of competency for the relevant AQF qualification specified in the training plan or
12 months after commencing Stage 3**whichever is earlier
Exit: Upon attainment of 100% of the units of competency for the relevant AQF qualification specified in the training plan.
So that it can be determined if this model is one that fits the needs of the automotive industry, the Automotive Training Board of NSW is seeking responses to a simple 5 question survey by September 30, 2010. To access the survey go to www.atbnsw.com.au
On the homepage on the right is the heading “Competency Based Progression Survey” and click on the link below the heading.
If you are having any difficulties accessing the survey, please contact Debbie at the ATB NSW on 02 8251 0032.
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