Policy and Procedure Manual 2014 Version 1.13 June 2014 MHM Australasia Pty Ltd trading as The Australasian College Broadway (TAC) Registered Training Organisation 6980 Contents Access and Equity.......................................................................................................................................... 4 Additional Charges ....................................................................................................................................... 6 Assessment Moderation/Validation ...................................................................................................... 7 Assessment...................................................................................................................................................... 9 Attendance.....................................................................................................................................................14 Change of Contact Details.........................................................................................................................17 Client Feedback............................................................................................................................................18 Code of Practice ...........................................................................................................................................20 Continuous Improvement ........................................................................................................................21 Credit Transfer.............................................................................................................................................23 Critical Incident ...........................................................................................................................................26 Financial Management ..............................................................................................................................30 Form Usage and Version Control...........................................................................................................32 Graduation Policy and Procedure .........................................................................................................34 Grievance & Appeals ..................................................................................................................................36 Information Prior to Enrolment ............................................................................................................40 Interactions with the National VET Regulator..................................................................................41 Internal Audit ...............................................................................................................................................42 Issuing of Qualifications & Statements of Attainment ...................................................................43 Legislation .....................................................................................................................................................47 Management Meetings ..............................................................................................................................51 Marketing & Advertising ..........................................................................................................................54 Orientation ....................................................................................................................................................56 Partnership Agreements ..........................................................................................................................58 Policy and Procedure Development .....................................................................................................60 Privacy and Personal Information........................................................................................................62 Professional Development.......................................................................................................................65 Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)....................................................................................................67 Re-Crediting a VET FEE-HELP Balance.................................................................................................70 Refund Policy................................................................................................................................................73 Risk Management........................................................................................................................................76 Staff Management Policy ..........................................................................................................................79 Student Code of Conduct...........................................................................................................................82 Student Enrolment......................................................................................................................................83 Student Deferment .....................................................................................................................................85 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 2 of 115 Student Record Management..................................................................................................................87 Student Requests.........................................................................................................................................91 Student Selection.........................................................................................................................................92 Student Support Services .........................................................................................................................94 Student Withdrawal ...................................................................................................................................98 Students Workplace Integrated Learning .......................................................................................100 Students Under 18 years .......................................................................................................................105 Training and Assessment Strategy ....................................................................................................107 Transition to Training Packages ........................................................................................................111 MHM Australasia Pty Ltd t/a The Australasian College Broadway hereafter referred to as TAC Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 3 of 115 Access and Equity 1. Overview TAC is committed to providing all students with equal opportunity to pursue their training and development. This policy and procedure is to be used by TAC to integrate access and equity principles into all training and assessment activities it conducts or is conducted on its behalf. Access and Equity Principles include: Equity for all people through the fair and appropriate allocation of resources Equality of opportunity for all people without discrimination Access for all people to appropriate quality training and assessment services Increased opportunity for people to participate in training Discrimination can be direct, indirect or systemic. 2. Direct discrimination Direct discrimination is when someone treats someone unfairly or differently just because they belong to a particular group of people. So, direct discrimination is treating people differently because of their gender; race, colour or ethnic origin is used as an explicit reason for discriminating. 3. Indirect discrimination Indirect discrimination is treating everyone the same, but when this same treatment has an unfair effect on more people of a particular group than people outside the group. 4. Systemic discrimination ‘Systemic discrimination’ is a term which is not universally defined. The term can describe discrimination of a certain type (sex, race, homosexuality etc.) that is widespread, persistent and which entrenches inequality. Equity focuses on outcomes. Equity is not concerned with treating people in the same way; it is concerned with ensuring that all groups of people participate and benefit to the same level. Legislation includes: The Racial Discrimination Act, 1975 (Commonwealth). The Sex Discrimination Act, 1984 (Commonwealth). Disability Discrimination Act, 1992 (Commonwealth) Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW). In accordance with the Sex Discrimination Act, 1984, sexual harassment will not be accepted in the workplace, or in the training environment. Sexual harassment is when a person: Makes an unwelcome sexual advance or an unwelcome request for sexual favours. Engages in unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, and a reasonable person would have anticipated that the person harassed would be offended, humiliated or intimidated. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 4 of 115 The aim of the policy is to remove barriers and to open up developmental opportunities for all students and staff by creating a workplace and training environment that is free from discrimination, harassment, bigotry, prejudice, racism and offensive behaviour. All students will receive fair and equitable treatment in all aspects of training and employment without regard to political affiliation, race, colour, religion, national origin, sex, marital status or physical disability. All trainers/assessors are responsible to observe and be advocates for the policy. TAC procedures relating to training and assessment activities will focus on objective criteria based on merit. Any person with a grievance will be directed to use TAC Grievance Policy and Procedures. TRAINING GUARANTEE TAC guarantees that students commencing courses will have the course delivered as per the agreement entered into. If for some reason TAC is unable to fulfil this agreement, TAC will have the student transferred to another course or to another RTO to complete the course commenced as per the students request or refund of the unused tuition fee remaining in the course. The CEO will be the person responsible for the implementation and maintenance of the policy. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 5 of 115 Additional Charges 1. Scope The purpose of this policy is to acknowledge that, in accordance with legislation, MHM Australasia Pty Ltd trading as the Australasian College Broadway (TAC) (National provider code: 6980) must advise clients (students) of all fees for additional services. This information is provided prior to enrolment via the Student Handbook and Policy and Procedure Manual available on TAC website. Charges for Additional Services Students will be required to pay AUD$55.00 for each replacement testamur or statement of attainment Students will be required to pay AUD$25.00 for any replacement student ID card. Students will be required to pay AUD$25.00 for any replacement uniform T-shirt. Students enrolled in a beauty course will be required to pay AUD$50.00 for any replacement uniform tunic. Requests to have fees waived must be in writing to the CEO and will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16.3; 22.2 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 6 of 115 Assessment Moderation/Validation TAC ensures that it reviews, compares and evaluates its assessment procedures, tools and evidence (including Recognition of Prior Learning) on an ongoing basis to achieve standardisation so that the training outcomes are consistent and that assessment is valid, reliable, fair and flexible and where necessary TAC will redefine, clarify and modify its existing assessment practice. 1. Assessment Moderation/Validation TAC will conduct moderation/validation meetings at least yearly to audit current assessment procedures, tools and strategies for each qualification on its scope of registration. To ensure that the moderation process will be accurate and reliable an external consultant may be engaged to chair and conduct the meeting(s). Validation will be undertaken by industry participation to ensure currency to industry requirements is maintained and we will endeavour to have external validation by another RTO. Prior to the commencement of the meeting(s) all participants will be supplied with copies of the assessment tools to be moderated/validated, copies of the related units of competency and a copy of the assessment moderation or validation form. This form will be filled out by all participants and later used to assist in the outcome report of the moderation/validation meeting(s). The moderation process will include a sufficient number of assessors who have participated in the assessment of the particular qualification to enable informed judgments to be made. Other assessors who have not been involved in the delivery of training and assessment within this qualification may also attend this meeting to provide an ‘outside’ view of the assessment process. To this end TAC has a process where assessment material is moderated internally and then validated externally by industry representatives and also by another Registered Training Organisation using a standard validation checklist to provide further consistency of information from these external sources. The validation process shall determine whether or not the assessment procedures and materials currently in use are valid, reliable, fair and flexible in their application and whether they are considered to be suitable in light of the principles of assessment and the rules of evidence including reasonable adjustment requirements. All opportunities for improvement that are identified from within the validation process will be documented. In a situation where it is further considered that an assessment activity may pose a potential risk against the requirements for assessment (NVR Standard 15.5), then this will be noted and the documentation will be updated accordingly. The Head of Faculty will notify all trainers/assessors of any changes to assessment practices or materials arising from the moderation/validation process. This will allow for feedback from the relevant staff members that may require further improvements to be made to the practices or materials. Thus a continuous improvement process is initiated and completed regarding the assessment process and all related documentation with internal moderation and external validation undertaken. Outcomes requiring improvement are recorded in the continuous improvement registers and a moderation/validation register is completed to record the events. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 7 of 115 2. Procedure The internal moderation/validation meetings takes place at least yearly and includes trainers/assessors, the Faculty Head, and may include an external personnel and any other individual invited by TAC to participate including industry stakeholders. The outcome of each moderation/validation undertaken is recorded and any further recommendations are raised in the report for action; recorded as continuous improvement. The moderation/validation of assessment plans/tools/evidence includes the following steps: Assessment moderation/validation is scheduled to occur at least yearly. The Faculty Head liaises with assessors to decide what assessments and qualification RPL process will be put forward for moderation/validation. All relevant materials for moderation/validation are prepared and sent to all attending. Conduct moderation/validation on selected assessment tools using the Assessment Checklist. Record all improvement recommendations. All completed moderation/validation forms to be filed appropriately. Faculty Assessment Validation Register is completed. Selecting tools/evidence to be moderated or validated includes the following steps: Identify the qualification/unit to be moderated or validated. Identify assessment/assessment tools used for the qualification/unit. Locate samples of completed assessments if available. Make copies of the selected assessment tools/evidence/units of competence/checklists for all participants. Moderation/validation checklists are completed and recommendations made. The same process is followed for the internal moderation by TAC assessors and the external validation by vocational industry representatives and external Registered Training Organisations. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 15.5 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 8 of 115 Assessment The purpose of this policy is for TAC to determine whether a student who is participating in a TAC course has acquired the required competencies of the course and by establishing whether or not they have achieved the standards of performance required. 1. Assessment Policy At TAC we recognise that assessment is a core service offered to our students and is at the centre of our operation as a Registered Training Organisation. Quality assessment ensures that the skills and knowledge of candidates are assessed using four principal determinants: That assessment decisions are based on the assessment of skills and knowledge required by units of competence drawn from industry Training Packages or State accredited courses. That the target industry or enterprise requirements are contextualised and integrated within the assessment if required. That evidence is gathered that meets the rules of evidence. That assessment is conducted in accordance with the principles of assessment. Principles of Assessment In the delivery of assessment services, TAC applies the Principles of Assessment. Assessment strategies have been designed to ensure: Validity. We conduct assessment against the broad range of skills and knowledge identified within each unit of competence and which is integrated with their practical application. Reliability. We seek to gather and interpret evidence in a consistent manner that provides for reliable assessment both for the candidate and for assessors. We achieve this by using assessors who have the required competencies in assessment and the relevant vocational competencies. Our assessment resources also provide for standardised outcomes supported by model answers to guide assessors in their judgements. Flexibility. We strive to provide assessment opportunities that reflect a candidate’s needs. Our chosen assessment strategies provide for recognition of a candidate’s current competence, employ a range of methods appropriate to the context of the industry, the competency and the candidate. Fairness. Our assessment approach encourages fairness in assessment through consideration of the candidate’s needs and characteristics and through making reasonable adjustments when it is required. Assessors achieve this through clear communication with a candidate to ensure that the candidate is fully informed about, understands and is able to participate in, the assessment process, and agrees that the process is appropriate. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 9 of 115 TAC uses units of competence drawn from nationally endorsed industry Training Packages as our primary benchmark for assessment. Supporting this are industry standards or codes of practice. These and other industry specific publications inform the context and standard of performance during assessment. In order to identify the precise assessment criteria, we apply a methodology of unpacking a unit of competence in order to assess the full scope of the unit including elements of competence and performance criteria, incorporating range statement information and the specific requirements of the evidence guide. This process ensures that our assessment strategies accurately reflect the requirements of the relevant training package. 2. Engagement with industry TAC is well placed to leverage off current industry associations to incorporate industry requirements into the assessment process. Consultation with enterprises or industry will provide information about assessment requirements relevant to workplaces. Regulatory requirements that relate to specific units of competence will be incorporated to ensure our students are well prepared for their workplace duties. We will engage with industry in the ongoing validation of our assessment tools and process. 3. Collecting evidence that counts – the rules of evidence In collecting evidence, TAC applies the rules of evidence to inform the assessment strategy. Assessment strategies have been designed to ensure: Sufficiency. We prioritise the collection of enough appropriate evidence to ensure that all aspects of competency have been satisfied and that competency can be demonstrated repeatedly. Validity. We collect evidence that is specified in the benchmarks for assessment. TAC places significant emphasis on direct evidence that is gathered in our onsite simulated workplace through observation and compilation of a portfolio of work outcomes. Authenticity. We seek evidence that is authentic. To support this, assessors must be assured that the evidence presented for assessment is the candidate’s own work. Where documentary evidence is relied on it must be certified. In all instances, where work is submitted external to The Australasian College (i.e.; electronically, distance assignments, online) this is to include a signed statement by the candidate that they certify the work as their own. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 10 of 115 Currency. We must be satisfied that the candidate currently holds the skills and knowledge relating to a particular assessment. This will mostly relate to recognition applications where a candidate has been in the workplace for many years and is seeking recognition of skills and knowledge obtained through workplace experience or previous training. We will apply assessment strategies which satisfy currency through the gathering of direct evidence in the workplace. 4. Assessment context TAC recognises the importance of establishing the right context for candidates during their assessment. Assessment context refers to the physical and non-physical environment in which skills and knowledge are assessed. The non-physical environment refers to things such as workplace policy and procedure, workplace tempo and culture. Many units of competence may be applied in any workplace such as skills and knowledge relating to workplace safety or leadership. It is our responsibility to ensure that candidates are provided with the right context to undertake their assessment activities. To achieve this, we will apply the following strategies: Information provided to candidates regarding the expectations of assessors in the evidence required. Conduct of the assessment performing real workplace tasks. Integration of relevant industry codes of practice and other industry information into the assessment activity. Incorporation of industry job requirements for candidates to align with during realistic simulated workplace scenarios and case studies. Ensuring the candidate understands the requirements and feels ready for assessment. Creating assessment activities which require the candidates to conduct specific research relating to industry situations and occurrences. Provide a realistic simulated workplace within TAC facilities for assessment to occur. 5. Recognition of prior learning TAC will provide all students the opportunity to seek recognition of their prior learning. Recognition is viewed simply as another method of assessment and therefore is conducted in accordance with this policy. Further information on RPL can be found in our dedicated RPL policy. 6. Credit transfer TAC will recognise and award credit for candidates presenting with current competence. Where a candidate is seeking credit for a unit of competence that is on our scope of registration and the candidate can provide satisfactory evidence that the unit has been previously awarded to the candidate by another RTO, credit will be awarded. Further information on Credit Transfer can be found in our dedicated Credit Transfer Policy. 7. Competence of assessors Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 11 of 115 The National Skills Standards Council has determined the minimum qualification for trainers and assessors and that trainers and assessors have relevant vocational competencies at least to the level being assessed*. TAC has appropriate systems in place to ensure that all staff members are appropriately qualified to meet our requirement under the Standards for NVR Registered Training Organisations. Where an assessor does not hold the required training and assessment competence, but is a recognised industry expert, we will put appropriate supervision arrangements in place to support the gathering of valid evidence. http://www.nssc.natese.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/62277/NSSC_Communique_3__December_2011.pdf 8. Assessment Documentation Procedure In 2013, a college wide procedure was instituted to have a continuous and integrated assessment system which includes templates for documentation and information flow. 1. A Pre-assessment Consent Form allows the candidate to indicate that they have received all information regarding the assessment prior to the assessment and allows the candidate to provide their consent for the assessment to take place. The form also has a plagiarism statement that the candidate signs to provide evidence that it is their own work. 2. Individual assessment tasks as part of the unit are recorded as Satisfactory or Not Satisfactory. 3. The Unit Assessment Summary form is used to record all assessment results of a candidate for a particular unit. This form has an action plan section for assessors to document action required for the candidate to overcome any Not Satisfactory recordings. In a situation of an assessment being marked as Not Satisfactory the candidate will be provided with an opportunity to redo the assessment at a mutually arranged time. All assessments must be satisfactory before a competent decision can be made. 4. The Assessment Outcome Form is where the final decision of competency is recorded for the unit with assessor comments with the candidate signing as accepting the decision or not accepting the decision and wishing to appeal that decision. 5. The Assessment Feedback Form is provided to the candidate post assessment process to gain information from their perspective to base ongoing improvement to our assessment processes. If any participant in a program is dissatisfied with the results of their assessment they have the right to appeal the results and are provided the assessment appeal form and the process follows that documented in the Grievance Policy and Procedure. TAC allows two final ‘re-sit’s’ assessments for each unit to measure the unit of competency. We highly recommend re-doing the entire unit as two ‘Not Yet Competent’ results indicate that the candidate would not benefit from further reassessment at this time. We will give the candidate a price for the re-enrolment of the unit. Assessment dates are advised in advance of these dates. In the case of absenteeism on the advised date of an assessment or a reassessment the candidate will be deemed “NOT YET SATISFACTORY”. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 12 of 115 In exceptional circumstances and provided sufficient evidence is given to support the absence, TAC may consider the rescheduling of the assessment. All assessments are based on units of competency developed by industry which may be assessed or grouped as a unit of study. Candidate abilities are assessed against these units on a ‘can do’ basis. When a candidate can demonstrate competency or show that they can demonstrate their understanding or ability, they can be assessed as competent. TAC will undertake an annual review of its assessment systems and procedures and the outcomes of assessment (including Recognition of Prior Learning process) to ensure that they are appropriate and current and in line with the requirements of the relevant industry groups. This review process is essential in maintaining the integrity of TAC assessment system. Assessment validation is undertaken yearly as a systematic approach of continuous improvement to encompass a complete validation annually of all assessments aligned with the Assessment Validation Policy and Procedure. Aligned with ASQA General Direction of 20 February 2013, we keep all assessment material and documentation for a period of six (6) months from the date of the final assessment decision was made. 9. Assessment appeals If a student is not satisfied with the outcome of an assessment they may appeal the decision within 5 days of receiving the assessment outcome by completing the Appeals Form, and speaking to the assessor or Head of Faculty to request a review of the evidence. The assessor may require the student to provide further evidence. Students appealing an assessment outcome are welcome to bring a third party to any interview or discussion relating to the appeal. If the student is under 18 years old, a parent or guardian is requested to attend the interview/discussion. Where an appeal is granted, a new assessment outcome is issued and validated by the Head of Faculty. Where an agreement cannot be reached, the CEO may appoint an independent external assessor to review the evidence. The student may be required to contribute towards the costs of the external assessor. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 15.5 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 13 of 115 Attendance 1. Purpose The purpose of this policy is to monitor student attendance to ensure compliance with academic progression. The intent is to provide all students with the best opportunity to achieve the learning outcomes of their chosen course. Trainers record the attendance of students for each session (Morning and Afternoon or Evening) to support their academic progression. The student is advised of their falling attendance rate and issued a courtesy notification which is recorded in the Student Management System (EduPoint). The notification indicates the importance of attendance in assisting the student to maintain or achieve satisfactory course progress. 2. Staff Responsibilities Staff at TAC is responsible for supporting the regular attendance of students by: Providing clear information to students and Parents and /or Guardians regarding attendance requirements and the consequences of unsatisfactory attendance Providing a caring teaching and learning environment Maintaining accurate records of student attendance Recognising student attendance that is at risk Implementing interventions to address attendance issues when they arise Advising Parents and/or Guardian promptly of unexplained absences for underage students. 3. Student Responsibilities Students are advised at orientation of their responsibility regarding attendance. Students are advised that the body of work in each discipline is such that an attendance rate of 80% is deemed the minimum to be able to achieve competence. Students are advised that failure to attend may affect the student’s right to be assessed. Students are advised the process of advising the college if not attending. If a student has a valid reason for missing class (e.g., sickness, bereavement) they are to contact TAC by telephone or by email as early as possible and definitely before the starting time of their class. Students must contact TAC by telephone when they are ill and cannot attend and provide a medical certificate for absences of two days or more, on return to college. If the student believes that special, compassionate or compelling circumstances apply to explain their inability to attend any session, the student may seek dispensation from attendance requirements prior to the absence. 4. Students receiving Department of Human Services (Centrelink) payments TAC is required to report on the attendance and progression of any student in receipt of payments to support people who are studying and receive Income Support payments like Abstudy, Austudy and Youth Allowance. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 14 of 115 If a student is in receipt of such payments, they must be making satisfactory progress with their studies to satisfy the Activity Test for their payment. A student will generally be making satisfactory progress if the time they have spent studying at their current course is not greater than the allowable time for that course. Allowable time is based on the minimum time it would normally take to complete a course by full-time study, expressed as the course duration. If attendance has not been maintained, the Department will require repayment of funds paid for the period of non-attendance and it may affect future applications for payments. It is the student’s responsibility to maintain their attendance and advise Department of Human Services if their situation changes. 5. Underage students: Parent/Guardian - It is the duty of the parent/guardian of a underage student enrolled at TAC to ensure attendance Parent/Guardian is required to notify or explain the absences of their children/ward from TAC on the day of absence. 6. Procedure Attendance is recorded and monitored for each session as one factor that may contribute to a student’s satisfactory course progress or a student being deemed academically at risk. Trainers indicate on the roll the students who are present at the beginning of a session and students that are 15 minutes late to a session are marked absent for that session, unless a reasonable and viable reason is provided. For any student under the age of 18 not present, the faculty administrator contacts the parent/guardian to notify them of the student’s absence. This is logged on the Parent/Guardian Register on the intranet and recorded in Edupoint, the Student Records Management System daily. The trainers return the roll to the Faculty Head each day. Attendance records are maintained in the Student Management System daily. 7. Students at Risk Students identified as being at risk of not having an attendance level to maintain course progress shall be sent warning correspondence with an opportunity to meet with The Head of Faculty. Students will be required to meet with the Head of Faculty to explain their reasons for not attending classes when they are: absent for more than five consecutive days at risk of not maintaining attendance level expected to complete the unit or course If attendance does not improve or the student does not make an appointment with the Head of Faculty, a second letter is sent explaining that the lack of attendance has put their continued studies at risk. If the student is under 18 years of age, then letters will be sent to the parent/guardian requesting a meeting with the Heads of Faculty. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 15 of 115 All meetings will be documented on a student interview form and noted in the Student Management System on the date of interview. All documentation is maintained in the student file. Letters used as per the policy and procedure 1st Courtesy Attendance Letter 2nd Attendance Letter Guardian Letter re attendance This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16.1; 16.5; 16.6; 17.1 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 16 of 115 Change of Contact Details Purpose and scope The purpose of this policy is to acknowledge that MHM Australasia Pty Ltd trading as The Australasian College Broadway (TAC) (National provider code: 6980) requires students to notify TAC of any change of personal details. Students will be reminded of this provision in the student handbook and students are to notify TAC of any change in their contact details that differs from that on the enrolment application and contained in the student file. This is achieved by completing a ‘Student Change of Personal Details’ form available from the intranet and sourced by a staff member or available in the forms rack next to the main reception area. Students must notify TAC in writing (via above mentioned form) as soon as practicable and within 7 days. Students can give this form to their Head of Faculty who will forward the form to Student Information Management Group Manager so all appropriate files can be updated. Providing TAC with current contact details is important as this is the address that all information will be sent to. Students are also to be reminded that they must keep current their details with the Australian Tax Office and Centrelink as required. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 17 of 115 Client Feedback TAC has defined its stakeholders as not limited to students both current and potential; yet also members of staff, employer groups, enterprises, various government agencies and bodies, professional bodies and associations, other learning Colleges, industry training advisory bodies and Industry Skills Councils. TAC conducts various types of feedback gathering activities. The feedback activity is directly linked to continuous improvement activities and is a direct result of the capturing of data and feedback from all identified stakeholders during the course of normal operations. The feedback gathering process includes but is not limited to: Regular informal monitoring and communications (emails etc.) Gaining feedback from all identified stakeholders at semi-regular intervals Random feedback gathered from time to time from the various stakeholders Feedback from moderation, validation and professional development activities Student feedback received through the enrolment process Student feedback received through the course delivery Student feedback received from assessment Information from the grievance and appeals process Quality Indicators learner and employer questionnaire feedback. Feedback is collated and tabled at regular meetings. All areas identified as potential risks will be added to the risk assessment matrix and a mitigation strategy will be created as per the requirements of the risk assessment policy. Outcomes of action resulting from any feedback are documented on the continuous improvement registers. Quality Indicators The Quality Indicators are in three parts: Learner Questionnaire Employer Questionnaire Competency Completion Rates RTOs are to collect data from all students and employers throughout each calendar year and report outcomes to the National Regulator (ASQA) by June 30th the following year. The Competency Completion Rates each year are downloaded from the Student Management System (EduPoint) and also reported electronically to the regulator by June 30th the following year. TAC has iPads with the Learner Questionnaire loaded so that students can complete the questionnaire quickly and in a user friendly mode. These same iPads also have the Employer Questionnaire indicator which TAC will use when visiting employers. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 18 of 115 These iPads are held in the Information Management Group area and ‘loaned’ to the faculty as required. Heads of Faculty will request, via email to the TAC IT Help Desk <[email protected]>, such iPads at least one week in advance for the day and time required for each class in the last month of the course duration. In this way we may capture all student feedback with the Quality Indicators. A faculty staff member will collect the iPads from the Information Management Group on the requested date and return to the same area at completion of use. This will require the completion of the Quality Indicator iPad Requisition Form (example below) in signing out and in of the iPads. TAC staff member will be with the iPads at all times and students complete the questionnaire in a class environment. For reporting purposes, faculty are to have all students in a class cohort to complete the Learner Questionnaire as a group before moving to another cohort if on the same day. This is so, via time stamping of completion, we can gather responses for each cohort. Below is the template example (which is landscaped) of the Quality Indicator iPad Requisition Form for the signing out and return of iPads each time they leave the Information Management Group secure storage. Date Time iPads Faculty CEO authorised RTO wide action reflected in procedural change and documentation updated as appropriate. Feedback provided to staff and student as a result of continuous improvement Printed name Signature iPads Date Time Printed name Signature Student feedback obtained formally and informally Reviewed at faculty level and action taken as appropriate and recorded in continuous improvement register Outstanding or ongoing action items presented at Faculty Head monthly meetings. If required action taken to CEO for implementation This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 15.1; 16.1; 16.2; 16.5; 17.1; 17.2 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 19 of 115 Code of Practice Purpose MHM Australasia Pty Ltd trading as the Australasian College-Broadway (TAC) will act in accordance with the highest level of industry standards to provide vocational education and training. TAC Code of Practice outlines our commitment to our clients – to do this we will: Advertise and market its training services with integrity, accuracy and professionalism. Recruit participants in a responsible and ethical manner on the basis of access and equity. Provide accurate, relevant and up-to-date information to prospective students. Provide qualified and experienced trainers and assessors who: o Undertake their duties with honesty, objectivity, integrity and diligence. o Maintain competency and currency with NSSC qualification requirements. o Maintain vocational and VET knowledge currency via professional development. o Act professionally and give the highest standards of service to students. o Conduct fair, flexible, valid and reliable competency based assessments. o Apply the principles of reasonable adjustment where appropriate. Provide up-to-date facilities and equipment in a safe and healthy environment. Deliver, monitor and review training and assessment services to ensure that the interests and welfare of all stakeholders are maintained. Document, trains staff in, and implement appropriate changes as required. Provide a grievance and appeals procedure and opportunities for reassessment. Recognise the rights and dignity of all, observing at all times the tenets of Anti-Discrimination and Equal Opportunity Laws. TAC prohibits discrimination and bullying in any form and it will not be tolerated. Treat students fairly with professional concern for their interests and refer students to external advice if necessary. Notify all staff and students 3 weeks in advance if TAC decides to relocate. Act in a way that promotes co-operation and good relations among the people the organisation works with. Recognise and advises all concerned of any possible conflict of interest in dealings with and behalf of TAC. Maintain accurate, confidential and secure training and financial records. Encourage feedback and evaluation from stakeholders. Observe total discretion and confidentiality in all dealings. Provide timely and accurate information to government agencies and funding bodies. Refer students to external expert advice for personal support when required. Provide academic support to students or referral to external agencies for additional learning support. Recognise current qualifications/SoA issued by Registered Training Organisations (RTO) within the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). Comply with all Commonwealth and state regulatory and legislative requirements. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 15-25 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 20 of 115 Continuous Improvement 1. Scope TAC is committed to the process of constantly improving the way in which its operations occur and its continuous compliance with the Standards for NVR Registered Training Organisations 2012. Process Through this process TAC will achieve further quality customer service and stay attuned to the current and future demands of the vocational education sector. TAC will progressively and actively seek out and eliminate all potential problems and act upon all opportunities in a way that results in the continual improvement of its training and assessment system and customer service standards along with improvement in our operational departments. TAC’s approach to quality encompasses all its operations including (yet not limited to) training and assessment services, student services, financial operations, internal and external information, facilities, resources, both human and physical, staff development and workplace health and safety. TAC’s quality system is based on adherence to the following guiding principles: A commitment by all staff to continuous improvement of operational processes, training and assessment products and services Input and involvement of all staff and students in identifying and assisting in the implementing of quality improvements Systematic use of qualitative and quantitative feedback as the basis for identifying and prioritising improvement opportunities. To achieve the process of continuous improvement TAC acknowledges that opportunities for continuous improvement can be identified from varied sources including: Formal and ad hoc feedback from students, staff and stakeholders Grievances and appeals from students and staff Benchmarking self-assessment audits against the regulatory requirements Undertaking internal and external Assessment Validation sessions Attending internal and external professional development workshops Staff performance and professional development Quality and Compliance maintains a Compliance Management Schedule over the year with compliance to individual SNR Standards being reviewed each month for continuous improvement. Sources of Continuous Improvement Opportunities Feedback and evaluations: Students and staff are encouraged to provide feedback about the quality of TAC programs, facilities and resources. Students are encouraged to provide both verbal and written feedback throughout their training through Evaluation Forms and via ad hoc feedback to their trainer/assessor, faculty head or any staff member. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 21 of 115 Students are asked to complete the quality indicators ‘Learner Questionnaire’ in the last month of their course. Trainers and assessors are encouraged to provide feedback during faculty meetings, at TAC professional development day’s and at any other time. Operational staff is encouraged to provide feedback to management during regular staff meetings and on an ad hoc basis. Series of meetings at departmental/faculty level bring continuous improvement opportunities to the departmental manager or faculty head who can initiate the improvement process or if extending beyond the departmental/faculty core function, brings the improvement request to the Senior Managers Team Meeting for general consensus and action by the CEO. Between scheduled meetings the CEO is available to all staff to receive written continuous improvement requests for consideration. A Continuous Improvement Log is maintained on the intranet to show what and how continuous improvement has been identified and dealt with. Due to the volume of input, each faculty maintains an ‘internal’ continuous improvement register. Additionally there is an Improvement Request form that may be used. If TAC receives a complaint it is dealt with under the Grievance Policy and Procedure and is fully documented and if found substantiated, the resulting action taken will form part of our continuous improvement. The Internal Audit policy and procedure process provides further opportunity to identify and remedy any improvement required. Each department also has an Operational Risk Matrix which documents identifies risks, the risk rating and consequence and preventative measures, providing additional input to our continuous improvement. TAC provides frequent professional development opportunities for all trainers and assessors in house and encourages attendance at external industry developmental opportunities. External assessment validation and moderation is undertaken yearly to strengthen our assessment process for continuous improvement. As noted, Department/Faculty Heads will collect and analyse all feedback for consideration as part of the ongoing quality improvement process and report to the Chief Executive Officer. Where possibilities for improvement are identified it will be raised and actioned via the appropriate documentation. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 15-25 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 22 of 115 Credit Transfer 1. Policy scope The purpose of this policy is to acknowledge that, in accordance with legislation MHM Australasia Pty Ltd trading as the Australasian College Broadway (TAC ) (national provider code: 6980) must recognise AQF and VET qualifications and VET Statements of Attainment issued by any other Registered Training Organisation. This policy applies to students who seek exemption from enrolment in a particular part of a vocational course as a result of recognition of a vocational unit/s of competency held. The qualification or statement of attainment must be current as per the training package requirements. 2. Definition Credit transfer is the recognition of learning achieved through formal education and training. Under the VET Quality Framework, qualifications and statements of attainment issued by any RTO are to be accepted and recognised by all other RTOs. Credit transfer allows a candidate to be credited a unit of competency based on successful completion of the same unit which has been previously awarded. Thus the student does not need to repeat the particular unit of competency in their ongoing study. Credit Transfer is not (and is a separate process to) Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). 3. Units must be the same or deemed equivalent If credit transfer is being sought for a unit of competence which has a different title or code, then it is necessary to establish the equivalence between the unit held and the unit being sought. This is achieved by either confirming unit equivalence with the National Register of Qualifications (www.training.gov.au) or by comparing mapping documents contained within the training package itself. As a general guide, if there is no such equivalence available then TAC is not obliged to recognise the unit through credit transfer. In these circumstances, the applicant should be referred for recognition in accordance with our RPL Policy and Procedures. 4. Guidelines The following guidelines are to be followed when an application for credit transfer is received: Any candidate is entitled to apply for credit transfer in a course or qualification in which they are applying for or are currently enrolled. Candidates may not apply for credit transfer for units of competence or qualification which are not included in TAC scope of registration. Whilst candidates may apply for credit transfer at any time, they are encouraged to apply before commencing a training program. This will reduce unnecessary training and guide the candidate down a more efficient path to competence. The candidate does not incur any fees for credit transfer and TAC does not receive any funding when credit transfer is granted. Credit transfer may only be awarded for whole units of competence. Where a mapping guide identifies a partial credit, this will not be considered for credit transfer and the applicant will be advised to seek recognition where the original award can contribute to a portfolio of evidence. Credit transfer will only be issued when the candidate’s enrolment includes at least one other unit of competence for which the candidate is participating in training or is seeking recognition. Candidate may not enrol only for credit transfer. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 23 of 115 5. Procedure Application for course credit is noted by ticking the RPL/credit transfer box when completing TAC’s application form. The relevant Head of Faculty will assess the application for course credit. A Credit Transfer Application Form needs to be sourced from the intranet and completed. Either the original or a certified copy of a VET qualification or Statement of Attainment must be submitted with TAC’s application form. Such documents may be verified by TAC from the issuing RTO. The student will be notified and if successful will be advised on course adjustment if required. If unsuccessful, the student may appeal the decision via the TAC appeals procedure. Head of Faculty ensures the Credit Transfer Application Form is provided to Student Information Management Group for filing into the student file. Following is a copy of the Credit Transfer Application Form to be completed by the candidate and the Head of Faculty Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 24 of 115 Full Name: Best Contact Number: Applicant information The following guidelines apply to applications for credit transfer at The Australasian College Broadway. Credit transfer is the recognition of learning achieved through formal education and training. Qualifications and statements of attainment issued by any RTO are to be accepted (when verified) and recognised by all other RTOs. Any candidate is entitled to apply for credit transfer in a course or qualification in which they are applying for or currently enrolled in. Candidates may not apply for credit transfer for units of competence or qualification which are not included in TAC scope of registration. Whilst candidates may apply for credit transfer at any time, they are encouraged to apply before commencing a training program. The candidate does not incur any fees for credit transfer and TAC does not receive any funding when credit transfer is granted. Credit transfer may only be awarded for whole units of competence. Credit transfer will only be issued when the candidate’s enrolment includes at least one other unit of competence for which the candidate is participating in training or is seeking recognition. Candidate may not enrol only for credit transfer. To apply for credit transfer, the candidate must complete and submit the following documentation to TAC: Credit Transfer Application Form (this form) Certified copy of the qualification or Statement of Attainment Enrolment Form Course title of current or intended enrolment: Name of provided unit(s) of competency: Approval of Credit transfer outcome: Approved Not approved Head of Faculty name: Date: Signature: This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 23.2 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 25 of 115 Critical Incident 1. Scope This policy aims to assist in the planning and implementation of an inclusive response to manage any critical incident effectively and to restore a sense of safety and security to TAC community. This policy is designed to ensure that MHM Australasia Pty Limited: Meets its duty of care obligations in providing the highest possible standard of health and safety for staff, students and other persons working at or visiting premises of TAC. Is able to respond efficiently in the event of a significant or critical incident. Is compliant with the relevant legislation and standards. This policy applies to all TAC staff, students, visitors and suppliers who have been exposed to a critical incident – either on-campus or off-campus including staff on business related travel interstate and overseas. Where TAC staff witness an event that may be considered a critical incident, the policy and procedures should be followed. Where staff is aware of an event which may either indicate or escalate to a critical incident, the policy and procedures should be followed. 2. Definitions A critical incident may be a traumatic event, or the threat of such (within or outside Australia), which causes extreme stress, fear or injury, and which may be regarded as outside the normal range of experience of the people affected. A Critical Incident may or may not require an emergency response. Examples of a critical incident may include (but not limited to): Any fatality, near fatality or incident likely to affect seriously a number of staff and/or students. Serious traffic accidents e.g. an accident during a student field trip. Murder or suicide involving students/staff and their family members. Development of a pandemic. Fire, explosion or bomb threat. Chemical, radiation or bio-hazard spillage. Hold-up or attempted robbery. Threats of violence to staff/students. Acts of terrorism. Major vandalism. Sexual assault. Severe Workplace Health & Safety risk. A natural or other major disaster in the community. Major failure in internal processes e.g. discovery of significant fraudulent activity. Interruption to utilities (e.g. electricity, water) for an extended period. Disruption to IT technology that impacts on the ability of TAC to deliver its services for an extended period to students or staff thus impacting on work completion. Extremely damaging media attention. Enforced College closure. The Designated Officer is any MHM Australasia Pty Limited staff member who is either a witness to, or first to be informed about an actual or potential critical incident. The Designated Officer is to assume Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 26 of 115 responsibility for alerting the most senior MHM Australasia Pty Limited staff member available as soon as possible. The Designated Officer may need to assume temporary control of a critical incident site and assign duties to available persons (such as calling emergency services, alerting other staff, assisting with first aid, crowd control etc.) For any incident occurring onsite at TAC premises, the TAC emergency Management Plan will be invoked as part of TAC Workplace Health & Safety commitment and under the direction of the Emergency Planning Committee. The procedures to be enacted in such an event will take precedence over the procedures within this Critical Incident policy and procedure. Refer to: Emergency Management Plan Emergency Procedures manual Incident Reporting Procedure 3. Policy 1. TAC will be proactive in identifying and managing incidents which have the ability to seriously impact on the safety of staff, students and other persons working at or visiting premises of MHM Australasia Pty Limited. 2. The registered provider will record all critical incidents via an incident pro forma. 3. The registered provider will provide training to all staff to create awareness and improve the provider’s management and response to a critical incident. 4. An WH&S Representative and/or Critical Incident Contact (CIC) Person is accessible to all staff in the event of a critical incident and will lead the response to a critical incident. 5. Following a significant or critical incident, clear procedures will ensure management of the immediate situation and the events that follow. 6. After recovery process has been completed, a report is to be compiled by the WH&S Representative and/or Critical Incident Team (if applicable) to evaluate the TAC’s response and provide feedback on any potential changes to policies and procedures deemed required. 4. Immediate Response (within 24 hours) 1. The Designated Officer is to assess the situation, consider any apparent risks to their own safety and instigate an appropriate response that matches the gravity of the situation. 2. Where the Designated Officer considers a critical incident to be apparent or likely, the Officer must alert the WH&S Representative and/or CIC Person. 3. Provided there is no threat to personal safety in doing so, the Designated Officer is to take steps to minimise further damage or injury. This may involve organising willing bystanders to provide support. 5. Secondary Response 1. The CEO, the WH&S Representative and/or the CIC Person, is to assume responsibility for re-assessing the incident and forming a Critical Incident Team if deemed necessary. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 27 of 115 2. As soon as practicable, the Designated Officer in liaison with any other involved staff (e.g. CEO or CIC Person) is to prepare a Critical Incident Initial Report outlining details regarding the type of incident, the exact location and details of any person or persons who might be injured, in distress or at risk. Where persons affected include students of TAC, a copy of the Report should also be placed in the student’s personal file. 6. Ongoing (Follow-up Response) 1. The CEO, WH&S Representative, CIC Person, and/or Critical Incident Team, will review the situation, set priorities, allocate tasks/responsibilities and coordinate communications (to staff, students, families of those involved, helpers, and the media as appropriate). 2. The WH&S Representative and/or Critical Incident Team are to organise ongoing Response/Follow up including staff briefing, counselling, review and reporting. 3. The WH&S Representative and/or Critical Incident Team are to organise a debriefing to evaluate response procedures and make recommendations for handling future critical incidents. 4. Any proposed changes to TAC’s policies and procedures are to be put forward at the Senior Management Team (SMT) Meeting. The outcome of the discussions is to be recorded in the minutes. Changes may be made without the SMT involvement if the CEO believes changes are required prior to the SMT Meeting. Religious Issues Contact will be made with an appropriate religious group on request from the next-of-kin, and the WH&S Representative and/or Critical Incident Team will notify staff and students as appropriate. Where the family has no wish for religious services, but there are those who may be indirectly affected, appropriate services will be contacted. Media Liaison All staff should be advised of the name and contact details of the designated Media Liaison (CEO takes this role) and all media inquiries are directed to the CEO – no staff member is too communicate with the media without CEO approval. A press release may be required. Counselling Counselling of staff and students will be a priority for incidents where trauma may be experienced. Arrange for a suitably qualified counselling service to address staff and invite staff to attend a further individual counselling session with them if required at TAC’s expense. Special leave will be considered where necessary. Legal Issues After the emergency response, the leader of the Critical Incident Team is to assess whether legal assistance might be required and refer accordingly. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 28 of 115 Insurance Where damage to building or grounds has occurred or where MHM Australasia Pty Limited may be liable for personal or property damage, the relevant insurance bodies should be informed as soon as possible. Student Records Student Records should be adjusted to reflect changes to a student’s status where applicable. Critical Incident Contact (CIC) Persons Name Title/Role Phone Maureen Houssein-Mustafa Janis Gordon CEO General Manager 0410 578 888 0450 188 158 This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16;17 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 29 of 115 Financial Management 1. Scope A Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA) certifies the accounts of TAC annually. The CEO is responsible for the effective management of TAC finances. TAC is a member of the Australian Council for Private Education and Training (ACPET). The accounts person uses financial management software and reports monthly on TAC financial position. Where necessary, meetings are held to review the financial position of TAC and any changes to financial management are documented. 2. Protection of Fees Paid in Advance The advance payment of fees are deposited and protected by a separate organisation's bank Trust account. Client fees are not drawn upon until the student has commenced their study. All fees collected will be paid into the designated account within 5 business days of receipt of the payment. TAC operates under the NVR Standard 22.3 (e) by ensuring all fees paid in advance are protected by the Australian Student Tuition Assurance Scheme (ASTAS). TAC has membership with the Australian Student Tuition Assurance Scheme (ASTAS) which is approved by the National VET Regulator. This ASTAS protects students in the event that the College cannot deliver a course and this scheme allows the student to transfer to another RTO which delivers the same course; thereby protecting their investment in education. 3. Receipt of Student Fees On payment TAC will: Issue receipts upon receiving the fees/payment Check the tax invoice attached to fees/payment if paid by representative/agents Enter data to client records Copies of receipts will record the following information: The payment amount Brief description of purpose of receipt Name of person/organisation paying Receipt date Signature of person receipting the funds Monies and receipt number is recorded on the client’s enrolment. The original copy of the receipt is distributed to the client and a copy is retained in electronic format and also in hard copy in the students file. At the time of enrolment students are required to pay the following fees: Enrolment fee, other fees (if applicable) and the tuition fee. Should fees remain overdue for more than 14 days, TAC will send a letter requesting payment of fees immediately. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 30 of 115 Whilst student fees are outstanding students may not be permitted to attend their scheduled class until such time as the outstanding fees have been paid. The payment of all fees and charges is receipted and dated at the time of payment. Records of fees receipted and dated are maintained and secured for two years after the student ceases to be a student and is kept within the financial management system software as required by taxation legislation. VET FEE-HELP The eligible student is issued with an explanation of the process for applying for VET FEE-HELP (accompanied by a booklet) the student is then given a Request for VET FEE- HELP assistance form, they are asked to fill the form out and return it with a TFN and proof of eligibility. The student is then issued with the student copy of the request for assistance application. Students are made aware of and provided information on, the requirements and responsibilities of accessing VET FEE-HELP. 4. Refunds All refunds are subject to the refund policy and the administration fee for students, which will be deducted from the refund. Refer to the refund policy and procedure which includes VET FEE-HELP. 5. Insurance All operations of MHM Australasia Pty Ltd are covered by insurance. This includes public liability for $100,000,000, general business insurance plus treatment risk insurance and worker’s compensation. Current policies are available on request. 6. Financial Viability We undertake to always be in a position to demonstrate to the National VET Regulator that it is financially viable at all times during the period of its registration. The Finance Manager has this responsibility. Prepare monthly management report with ratios analysis to insure our financial viability meet the requirements all the time Forecast financial performance and position for next two years to maintain our financial viability in the future Quarterly cash flow forecast to monitor our cash flow position and make sure our net cash flow positive all the time Periodically review our financial performance to improve financial viability Occasionally seek professional advices from external consultants This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 21; 22 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 31 of 115 Form Usage and Version Control 1. Scope All college wide forms (documents) used by MHM Australasia Pty Ltd t/a the Australasian College (TAC) are to be versioned controlled. The version format will be “n.n”. For major document change the first digit will increase by an increment of 1. Where minor amendments are made the second increment will increase by 1. 2. Example A gradual replacement of all forms not in formatted college template will take place and new version control will be instituted as per the footer of this document (see below). Policy & Procedure • V3.10 March 2014 • Page 32 of 115 The footer information is in two separate blocks. The top one is centered right so that the document name can be added which will move to the left as you type. The second block is locked so no changes can be made. If any change is required then contact Quality and Compliance Manager. All documents will be on the college wide template with the logo in the header: Any text for sequential documents (such as the policy and procedures) will be next to the logo in the header. All other text including document header will be under the footer. 3. Versions All new documents start as V1 <month year> with changes to the same document increasing by .1 i.e. 1.1, 1.2 A document that requires major revision will be signed off by the Head of Quality and Compliance and the CEO; this will change version as a new whole numeric i.e. 2 (then 2.1, 2.2). 4. Document Register A register of all college wide documents will be maintained by the Manager of Quality and Compliance. The register will include: Date the document was first created Title of the document Current version of the document Document owner Location of the document Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 32 of 115 5. Form dissemination It is critical that current forms are easily accessible by all relevant parties. When a form is created or an existing form amended, it will be recommended for approval by the Manager of Quality and Compliance and new forms forwarded to the Chief Executive Officer for approval. Once the form is approved it will be posted on the College’s intranet under Corporate – Quality and Compliance – Documents. An all staff email will then be sent advising that a new form has been created or an existing form has been amended. The Manager of Quality and Compliance is responsible for ensuring that the forms and the document register are maintained and regularly reviewed. Once the form is released staff must only refer to the intranet for the current document. Blank template documents are not to be kept on individual drivers of the electronic system as they may be out of date when used. 6. Form creation/amendment It is critical that forms are developed and or amended through a process of consultation, are checked for quality and are compliant and are approved by the Manager Quality & Compliance or delegate or the Chief Executive Officer. The document creation follows the below stated procedure using the Request to Create or Amend a Form (available from the Forms folder on the College’s intranet under Quality and Compliance). 7. Procedure for form creation/amendment 1. Any staff member can identify the need for a new form/document. 2. The staff member consults with the Department Manager or Head of Faculty regarding the need for a new form to be developed and used by the College. 3. The Manager or Head of Faculty assesses the purpose of the form and recommends development of the new/amended document, via the Request to Create or Amend a Form document. 4. The form can be developed by both the staff member and the Manager of Quality and Compliance. 5. The form is developed in line with the College’s Style Guide. 6. The Manager of Quality and Compliance reviews the drafted form and recommends a final draft for approval. 7. Final draft is approved by Manager of Quality and Compliance and sent for final proof reading by General Manager or delegate. 8. Version control applied. 9. Form is provided to CEO for approval and it is returned to the Manager of Quality and Compliance. 10. The form is added to the forms register and uploaded to the intranet. 11. An all staff email is sent from the Manager of Quality and Compliance informing staff of the new form that has been approved, how the form is to be used and the location on the new form on the College’s intranet. Note: The above instructions are for college wide forms. For documents that are faculty or department specific and used internally are to be authorised by Faculty Head or the Department Manager. Any form to be created or amended that relates to the National VET Regulator Standards must be signed off by the Manager of Quality and Compliance for compliance purposes. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 15-25 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 33 of 115 Graduation Policy and Procedure 1. Scope The purpose of this policy is to ensure TAC graduation ceremonies runs smoothly and is an enjoyable experience for students and staff. The graduation ceremony is a cultural tradition that is considered a rite of passage. The ceremony marks a transition from one stage in a student's life to another. This policy applies to all TAC faculties and departments that are involved in the graduation process. Graduation ceremony is presented by the college for students who have successfully completed a full qualification. Those awarded a Statement of Attainment will also be recognised. 2. Overview In order to graduate, students must complete all assessments as competent and have all outstanding results and any debts with the College resolved. If a student within a cohort has not completed all their assessments and has been given an extension to complete, they cannot graduate with their cohort. They will graduate once they have completed all assessments, as graduation is not a class group activity. Graduation is an individual accolade of success. Graduations will be held quarterly – March, June, September & December. There is to be a minimum of 40 students graduating per graduation. If there are insufficient numbers graduating there will be no graduation held that quarter and students are invited to attend the following graduation ceremony. Testamur and record of results generally will not be released to students prior to the graduation ceremony unless students request the issue of their qualification documentation prior to the graduation. Please see section 7a 31 Issuing Qualifications and Statements of Attainment in the TAC Policy & Procedure Manual for procedure on issuing of Testamurs and Statements of Attainment. 3. Pre graduation procedure Graduation date to be decided by CEO & Heads of Faculty (HoFs) at least 6 weeks in advance. Executive Assistant (EA) to CEO to book venue and finalise paperwork. HoF’s to provide a list of students expected to graduate to EA four (4) weeks prior to graduation date. Graduates will be sent an invitation email to the graduation ceremony and can choose to attend the ceremony or receive their testamur if they cannot, or do not wish to attend the ceremony. The invitation will also be posted on the TAC website/Facebook. RSVP’s to be sent to EA. EA to keep a record of students attending, guest payments, gown sizes and dietary requirements. HoF’s to provide completed Certificate Requisition forms to Student Information Management Group (SIMG) within a period specified by SIMG Manager. This needs to be completed no less than 5 working days prior to graduation. HoF’s to ensure that all results are loaded into the Student Information System (Edupoint) prior to Certificate Requisition forms and student files being given to SIMG. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 34 of 115 4. When a student does not attend the graduation ceremony they must request that their testamur be mailed to them. Testamurs will be posted by registered mail only after the graduation ceremony has been completed for those scheduled to attend. Testamurs will be mailed only to the student concerned. Testamurs will not be released to a family member or friend without the student’s written permission. Students must make an appointment with the SIMG to collect qualifications or arrange for them to be posted. This must not be done through individual faculties. Faculties must put a request through the helpdesk. Graduation Day procedure Students to arrive 30 minutes before the ceremony scheduled start time. Students to collect their graduation gowns and have individual photos taken prior to taking their seat. Students must sign for receiving their gown and sign again when returning the gown. Students are to sign their certificate requisition form when they collect their gown. Students and guests are to take their seat at least 10 minutes before the ceremony starts. 5. Post-graduation procedure Official photographs Whole group photographs and separate class photographs will be taken on completion of ceremony; students can then have family and friends photographs taken. College social media representative will attend with iPad to take photographs of the graduation to be uploaded to TAC website/facebook. Gown return Students must return and sign in their gown prior to leaving the graduation venue. The graduation gown remains the property of MHM Australasia Pty Ltd and is not to be removed from the graduation venue. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 23.1 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 35 of 115 Grievance & Appeals TAC ensures that any grievance from students and/or staff is handled in a constructive, timely, fair and equitable manner which is easily accessible and offered to the grievant at no charge. This policy and procedure is designed to ensure that TAC responds effectively to individual cases of dissatisfaction. 1. Definition A grievance can be defined as a student’s or staffs expression of dissatisfaction with any aspect of the TAC’s services and activities, such as: the enrolment or induction process; the quality of education provided; academic matters, including student progress, assessment, curriculum and awards in a VET course of study; handling of personal information and access to personal records; the way someone has been treated. In this document “student” refers to both students and potential students, enrolled, or seeking to enrol, in a course with the College; while staff refers to any staff member of TAC. 2. Before an issue becomes a formal grievance Students/staff are encouraged, wherever possible, to resolve concerns or difficulties directly with the person(s) concerned. A student or staff member (grievant) may raise an informal grievance by contacting their educator or alternatively any staff member with whom they feel comfortable. Staff members should contact Human Resources or the General Manager for informal resolution. At all times, each grievance brought to anyone’s attention needs to be informally resolved if at all possible prior to it becoming a formal grievance or appeal. 3. Formal procedure This procedure can be utilised to submit a grievance of an academic or non-academic nature. Grievances of an academic nature include matters related to student progress, assessment, curriculum and awards in a VET course of study. Grievances of a non-academic nature cover all other matters including grievances in relation to personal information that TAC holds in relation to the student or staff member. During all stages of this procedure TAC will take all steps to ensure that: the grievant will not be victimised or discriminated against; the grievant has an opportunity to formally present their case and each party to the grievance may be accompanied and assisted by a support person at any relevant meetings; a full explanation in writing for decisions and actions taken as part of the process will be provided if so requested by the grievant; Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 36 of 115 where the internal or external grievance handling or appeal process results in a decision that supports the grievant or appellant, TAC will immediately implement any decision and/or corrective and preventative action required and advise the grievant/appellant of the outcome. There is no cost to the grievant for utilising this grievances and appeals process. At all meetings, the grievant may have a support person present. If the student is under the age of 18, the parent or guardian must also be present. 3 a. Stage one – formal grievance: Formal grievances must be submitted in writing to the Head of Faculty on a Grievances Form available from a staff member via the intranet. Within two working days of receiving a formal grievance, Quality & Compliance Manager is to be advised that a grievance has been received. The grievances process will commence within 5 (five) working days of the receipt of the written grievance and all reasonable measures will be taken to finalise the process as soon as practicable. The grievant will also be informed within this five (5) day period of the receipt of the formal grievance. The appropriate Head of Faculty will seek to clarify the outcome that the grievant hopes to achieve. If the grievance concerns the Head of Faculty then the grievance may be heard by the General Manager or Human Resource Manager. Such clarification may be sought by written or verbal request or by a face-to-face interview with the grievant. When such clarification occurs in a face-to-face interview the grievant or respondent may ask another person to accompany them and there is no cost to the grievant for the process. The Head of Faculty, General Manager or Human Resources Manager or their nominee will endeavour to resolve the grievance and provide in writing to the grievant the steps taken to address the grievance, including the reasons for the decision, within 5 (five) working days of the grievance process commencing. A grievant may appeal the grievance outcome decision. 3b. Stage two – internal appeal: If a grievant is dissatisfied with the outcome of their formal grievance process they may lodge an appeal with the CEO (who is senior to the original decision maker) within 5 (five) working days of the grievance process outcome. The CEO may decide on the appeal or convene an independent review panel (who are not party to original grievance) within 5 (five) working days of receiving the written request. If heard by a review panel, the panel will review the dispute between TAC and the appellant; reporting to the CEO within 5 (five) working days of receiving the appeal. The CEO will provide a written report which is part of the Appeals Form to the appellant advising the outcome of the appeal, additional steps taken to address the grievance and the reasons for the decision within 5 (five) working days of receiving the appeal decision. The report will further advise the appellant of their right to access the external appeals process if they are not satisfied with the outcome of their appeal. 3c. Stage three – external appeal: Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 37 of 115 If the matter remains unresolved after the review panel or CEO presents the appeal process findings, the appellant may make a written request to the CEO that they wish the matter be dealt with through an independent external dispute resolution process. TAC, in consultation with the appellant, will appoint a mutually agreed independent external mediator within 5 (five) working days. It is then up to the mediator, the appellant and TAC to resolve the grievance. TAC will bear any costs associated with the mediation. The appellant or the respondent may ask another person to accompany them to meetings with the mediator. The mediator will report to the CEO, the outcome of the mediation, including any recommendations arising, within 5 (five) days of the completion of the review. Once the CEO, receives the report of the outcomes from the independent mediator, they will provide a written report to the appellant within 5 (five) working days on the recommended actions to resolve the appeal. TAC agrees to be bound by the independent mediator’s recommendations and the CEO will ensure that any recommendations made are implemented within 5 (five) days of receipt of such decision. The procedures set out in this document do not replace or modify procedures or any other responsibilities which may arise under other policies or under statute or any other law. Nothing in this policy and procedure limits the rights of individuals to take action under Australia's Consumer Protection laws. Also, these procedures do not circumscribe an individual's rights to pursue other legal remedies. 4. Enrolment/Employment Status Where a student chooses to access this policy and procedure, TAC will maintain the student’s enrolment while the grievances and appeals process is ongoing. Where a staff member chooses to access this policy and procedure, TAC will maintain the staff members’ employment while the grievances and appeals process is ongoing. 5. Process outcome If the decision supports the student/staff member, then TAC will immediately implement any decision and corrective action required. This action will be notified to the student/staff member. 6. Record keeping & confidentiality A written record of all grievances handled under this procedure and their outcomes shall be maintained for a period of two years to allow all parties to the grievance appropriate access to these records, upon written request to the CEO. These records will be maintained at Building 1, 87 Bay Street, Glebe, NSW 2037. 7. Assessment Appeals If a candidate is not satisfied with the outcome of an assessment they may appeal the decision within 5 (five) days of receiving the assessment outcome. This involves speaking to the assessor to request a review of the evidence. The assessor may require further evidence. Candidate’s appealing an assessment outcome (documented on the Appeal Form) are welcome to bring a third party to any interview or discussion relating to the appeal. If the candidate is under 18 years old, a parent or guardian is requested to attend the interview/discussion. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 38 of 115 Where an appeal is granted and the candidate is found competent, a new assessment outcome is issued and validated by the Head of Faculty. Where an agreement cannot be reached, the CEO may employ an independent and external assessor to review the evidence. This may require the candidate to undertake the assessment again in providing evidence of their competency to the appointed assessor. The candidate may be required to contribute towards the costs of the external assessor. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16.7 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 39 of 115 Information Prior to Enrolment MHM Australasia Pty Ltd (TAC) upholds the principle that all applicants seeking to enrol are treated fairly and equitably. TAC has open, fair, clear and transparent procedures that are based on clearly defined entry criteria for making decisions about the selection of students. Students will be selected on merit based on the published criteria. TAC will ensure that throughout the process of selection and admission, applicants are treated courteously and expeditiously. Entry criteria and application procedures are published in TAC’s Course Information Brochure/s and on TAC’s website for the information of those seeking to enrol with TAC. Student handbook is also on the website so prospective students can gain an understanding of the rights and responsibilities as a student at the College. The opportunities and benefits of Commonwealth assistance will be made equally available to all eligible students upon enrolment in applicable courses. Process TAC provides information to all applicants to allow them to make an informed decision about enroling at TAC. Applicants are requested to come to the campus for an interview so they can see TAC in action, touring the location and facilities, the equipment used and all questions are answered. All enquiries for enrolment are provided with the Course Information Brochure/s, which are available on the college website. Access to the courses is open to all applicants subject to meeting the course entry requirements. Enrolment is available according to each Faculty’s schedule where places are available. Prospective students are advised to review the Student Information Handbook, available on the website or in print if requested, for further information. Before an applicant is accepted as a student they receive the following information: An itemised list of all fees associated with undertaking the course. Course outline. Name of qualification. Duration of course. Teaching methods. Assessment methods. If there are any other providers involved in the delivery of the course. Facilities available. Equipment available. Learning resources available. Refund policy. Information about what happens in the event that TAC is unable to provide their course in full. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16.3 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 40 of 115 Interactions with the National VET Regulator The CEO has responsibility for interaction with the regulators in ensuring information currency and accuracy. The CEO will ensure that TAC complies with the VET Quality Framework. This applies to all of the operations within the NVR registered training organisation’s scope of registration, as listed on the National Register. The CEO is assisted with the compliance and interactions with the National VET Regulator and other agencies by the Quality and Compliance Manager. The CEO will also ensure that TAC co-operates with the National VET Regulator: (a) in the conduct of audits and the monitoring of its operations; (b) by providing accurate and timely data relevant to measures of its performance; (c) by providing information about significant changes to its operations; (d) by providing information about significant changes to its ownership; and (e) in the retention, archiving, retrieval and transfer of records consistent with the National VET Regulator's requirements. In addition TAC will always be able to demonstrate to the National VET Regulator that it is financially viable at all times during the period of its registration. TAC will provide returns of its client records of attainment of units of competence and qualifications to the National VET Regulator on a regular basis, as determined by the National VET Regulator. TAC will advise the designated authority in writing of: any prospective changes to the ownership or address of the registered provider as soon as practicable prior to the change taking effect. National VET Regulator will be advised as required by the VET Quality Framework, particularly the Fit and Proper Person requirements. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 19 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 41 of 115 Internal Audit TAC is fully committed to ensuring its compliance with the requirements of being a RTO. This is achieved and maintained by monthly internal self-assessment audits as stated in the scheduled activities as per the compliance calendar. This audit process is carried out by the Manager Quality & Compliance with help by delegation. When conducting the internal self-assessment audit, each month selected NVR Standards will be audited so that over a 12 month period, all standards are audited. The audit team may use the processes outlined below to ensure that policies and procedures have been audited and implemented consistently throughout TAC and that these policies and procedures are fully compliant as required by the NVR Standards: Examination of documents and systems that pertain to the policies and procedures, student handbook, relevant components of the business plan, trainers/assessor qualifications, records of training and assessment. Perusing a sample of student files. Analysing resources for delivery and assessment required by the relevant National Training Package or course, including training materials and assessment tools. Holding interviews as required with administration staff, trainers and students. Auditing processes such as assessment and learning activities. Examination of existing facilities required by the relevant National Training Package or course. Review of processes with senior management. Job Descriptions. At the completion of the internal self-assessment audit a report will be generated on TAC compliance which is prepared and presented by the audit team to the CEO. This report will make recommendations on any non-compliance found and the required rectification to bring these areas of non-compliance to become fully compliant. Where improvement actions eliminate a potential risk as define under the risk management process the risk matrix will be updated accordingly. In 2014 an external auditor will also undertake audits of selected standards on a monthly basis. This auditor has full access to all staff and files. A report will be provided to the Manager Quality & Compliance and the CEO. This audit process is in addition to any other audit processes undertaken internally. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 15-25 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 42 of 115 Issuing of Qualifications & Statements of Attainment 1. Scope TAC adheres to the requirements of the Australian Qualifications Framework and the AQF Qualifications Issuance Policy for issue of: AQF testamurs AQF record of results AQF Statements of Attainment. The purpose of this policy and procedure is to define the rules for the assessment and issuance of AQF vocational education and training testamurs, records of results and statements of attainments. A student who is enrolled in an accredited vocational education and training course/qualification and has successfully completed all the required units of competency are entitled to receive the following certification documentation upon completion: a testamur a record of results A student who has successfully completed a number of units of competency within an accredited vocational education and training course/qualification but does not meet the requirements of the full qualification is entitled to: a Statement of Attainment 2. Specifications In order to comply with AQF specifications for defining the form of testamurs and records of results and to protect the authenticity of certificates and reduce fraud the following will be included in all AQF testamurs: the legal name of the College: MHM Australasia Pty Ltd the College’s trading name: The Australasian College Broadway the College’s National Provider Number (6980) the College’s ABN: 61 066 062 888 the College’s address and contact details including website the graduate’s full name in the order of: first name/s followed the surname the AQF qualification title and national qualification code date of issue/award/conferral TAC logo the name and signature of the member of TAC authorised to issue the testamur (CEO) the Nationally Recognised Training (NRT) logo the language of delivery (if not in English) a unique certificate number a unique student number In order to comply with AQF specifications for defining the form of Statements of Attainment and to protect the authenticity of certificates and reduce fraud the following will be included in all AQF Statements of Attainment: the legal name of the College: MHM Australasia Pty Ltd the College’s trading name: The Australasian College Broadway Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 43 of 115 the College’s National Provider Number (6980) the College’s ABN: 61 066 062 888 the College’s address and contact details including website the statement: A Statement of Attainment is issued by a Registered Training Organisation when an individual has completed one or more accredited units the words: These competencies form part of (the National Course Code and the qualification/course name) the graduate’s full name in the order of: first name/s followed the surname date of issue/award/conferral TAC logo the name and signature of the member of TAC authorised to issue the SoA (CEO) the Nationally Recognised Training (NRT) logo the language of delivery (if not in English) a unique SoA number a unique student number a list of competencies. Skill Sets When Statements of Attainments are issued to recognise achievement of a skill set identified in a particular Training Package, the Statements of Attainment is to contain the name of the skill set and a statement using the wording given in the Training Package to indicate whether the skill set meets a licensing or regulatory requirement or an identified industry need. 3. Qualifications register In keeping with the principles of best practice and the requirements of the AQF Qualifications Register Policy for Registered Training Organisations, TAC maintains a register of all AQF qualifications issued to graduates. The Qualifications Register will include the following: students full name the name of the Qualification and the national code of the qualification date of issue/award/conferral. In accordance with the Data Provision Requirements 2011 for Registered Training Organisations TAC will report on all AQF qualifications issued to graduates at the request of the National Vocational Regulator. 4. Retention of records In accordance with the Standards for NVR Registered Training Organisations 2012, TAC will retain student records of attainment of AQF units of competency and qualifications for a period of 30 years. This is to ensure the ability to re-issue the original qualification document (not ‘updated’ to the current qualification) if required. 5. Presentation Certificates may be issued: Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 44 of 115 in person at a graduation ceremony in absentia (email or mail) at the request of the student where the student has indicated in writing. by proxy with written permission from the student and ID displayed upon collection. 6. Revocation TAC may revoke or require a certificate to be returned in the following circumstances: fraud or dishonesty (i.e. where it becomes evident that the award was inappropriately obtained) when the original certificate has been damaged or a change in legal name with a request for a new one the testamur has been issued with error 7. Application for reissuance TAC will reissue a certificate in the following circumstances: when a request is made in writing to TAC Student Relations Department when a replacement fee (AUD$55.00) is paid if the original (if possible) is returned. The Student Information Management Group Manager will validate the reissuance of a certificate by referring to the Qualifications register. The re-issue is the same as the original document that was issued, not altered in any way. Students are made aware of their entitlement to a certificate in the student handbook, during orientation and TAC website: www.tac.edu.au 8. Responsibility The Student Information Management Group Manager is responsible for the implementation of this policy and procedure and for ensuring that staff and students are aware of its application and procedures. The Student Information Management Group Manager is responsible for ensuring that qualifications or Statement of Attainments issued are from current or valid training packages. Qualifications or Statements of Attainment can be issued from superseded training packages so long as the issuance of these falls within the guidelines of the ASQA General Direction on Transition and Teach-out. 9. Procedure Heads of Faculty are responsible for ensuring that the outcome for each assessment is entered into the College’s secured student records management database: EduPoint. Educators and Heads of Faculty must finalise the assessments within fourteen (14) days of the course completion or where a student voluntarily withdraws from a course. Educators must file all outstanding documents, including assessments on the students file prior to any certificate being generated. Educators complete the Certificate Request Form which is in the student file. The Form is to be completed in the Student Information Management Group (SIMG). The form is then checked and signed off by the Head of Faculty. The Head of Faculty returns the Certificate Request Form to the Student Information Management Group (SIMG) with all student material (i.e. file, assessments). Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 45 of 115 SIMG to verify with Finance department that all monies have been received in full. Finance to follow up on outstanding monies before any qualification is processed and issued. The student file is returned to the Student Information Manager for further discussion with HOF. If all monies are paid in full; Finance department to sign the Certificate request form where applicable. SIMG to verify all results have been entered into EduPoint as per the Certificate Request form. SIMG to notify Student Information Management Manager of any discrepancies for further discussion with HOF. Alternatively if all results are entered correctly, the qualification is printed. Certificate / SOA number is noted on the Certificate Request form and signed as processed by SIMG. SIMG to ensure the qualification/Statement of Attainment is signed by the CEO. SIMG is to record details of student ID, student name, course code, name of course, issuing date and Certificate / SOA onto the Certificate Register. SIMG to enter Certificate / SOA number on EduPoint and course is marked as finished in EduPoint. SIMG to photocopy the original qualification and copy is placed in student file. SIMG to contact student to arrange collection if no graduation is to be attended by student. For graduating students, SIM to organise collection of certificates with the Head of Faculty. Student to sign the Certificate Request form as collected. Alternatively student has the option to request qualification be posted to the address on file, request must be in writing. SIMG files the Certificate Request form in the student file. Student file archived and EduPoint noted as such. SIMG to notify SIMG Manager of completion. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16.3; 23 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 46 of 115 Legislation 1. Scope TAC will ensure compliance with all Commonwealth, State/Territory legislation and regulatory requirements relevant to its operations and ensures this is integrated into its policies and procedures. TAC in particular is bound by and operates within the following legislative and regulatory requirements: Work Health and Safety Act 2011 Child Protection (Prohibited Employment) Act 1998 Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 Privacy Amendment Act 2004 and Privacy Amendment (Enhancing Privacy Protection) Act 2012 Disability Discrimination Act, 1992 Public Health Act 2010 and Public Health Regulations 2012 National Vocational Education and Training Regulator Act 2011 Copyright Act 1968 The Hairdressing Act 2003 Public Health Act 2010 and Public Health Regulations 2012 Apprenticeship and Traineeship Act 2001 The Racial Discrimination Act, 1975 (Commonwealth). The Sex Discrimination Act, 1984 (Commonwealth). Disability Discrimination Act, 1992 (Commonwealth) Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW). Copies of these are located in the Quality & Compliance office and students and staff can request to access them at any time or they can be accessed on the web: http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au www.austlii.edu.au www.comlaw.gov.au TAC ensures that all: Staff is provided with information about legislation that significantly affects their duties at induction Students are provided with information about legislation that significantly affects their participation in their study program. Any changes to legislation will be advised to all staff and students with amendments made to all appropriate documentation as part of the ongoing continuous improvement process. Work Health and Safety Act 2011 TAC guarantees to meet its Duty of Care obligations to staff, students and visitors by providing facilities and a safe and healthy learning environment in accordance with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. Emergency evacuation procedures are covered during Student and staff Induction. In an emergency situation students and staff are to make their way quickly and calmly to the nearest exit where all meet with educator and other students for a roll call check. Evacuation meeting point is in Wentworth Park, across from TAC. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 47 of 115 First Aid Kits are located in every faculty of TAC. Students and staff are reminded to observe safe work practices whilst at TAC. All students and staff are responsible for: Always conducting yourself in a safe and healthy manner Ensuring the prevention of injury and disease to self, trainers, clients and students Identifying and reporting to the management team any possible hazards from equipment, facilities and the environment Refraining from smoking Refraining from drinking and/or eating in the classrooms and practical simulated workplace areas. Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 TAC is committed to providing a fair and equitable school for its students and visitors. Any discrimination or harassment of staff, students or visitors because of their sex, pregnancy, race, colour, religion, nationality, ethnic or ethno-religious background, marital status, physical or intellectual or psychiatric disability, homosexuality or age will not be tolerated. All are responsible for: Ensuring non-discriminatory or harassing behaviour at all times to other students, staff or visitors Reporting any discriminatory behaviour or harassment. Privacy Act 1988 It is an Australian Government requirement that we keep records of each student’s current residential address, the student’s full name, date of birth, nationality, the start and completion day of the student’s course, attendance and academic performance, details of payments received. We must also keep a record of the reason for a student’s termination of studies. Records are confidential and available on request to the person the file pertains to. Records of attendance, assessment outcomes and qualifications issued are kept accurate, up-to-date and secure. Personal information may be made available to Commonwealth and State Agencies as required by legislation. We keep copies of award records for a period of 30 years. A fee of $55.00 is charged for a duplicate copy of a student’s Qualification/Certificate/Transcript/Statement of Attainment. Students may access their records on request. Records are kept confidential and require written permission by the student prior to release of any information in their records. Students under 18 years of age, by signing the Declaration of Understanding, give consent for TAC to contact parent/s or guardian/s, if required. MHM Australasia will not disclose or use any information, personal or otherwise, without the express written consent of the individual. If the student is under 18, the approval for access to the relevant file is granted to the parent or guardian who is signatory to the enrolment. To request a student file, contact the Student Information Management Group. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 48 of 115 Privacy Amendment Act 2004 and Privacy Amendment (Enhancing Privacy Protection) Act 2012 These two amendment Acts are revisions of, not replacement of, the Privacy Act 1988. From 12 March 2014, the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) will replace the National Privacy Principles and Information Privacy Principles and will apply to organisations, and Australian Government (and Norfolk Island Government) agencies. This privacy fact sheet provides the text of the 13 APPs from Schedule 1 of the Privacy Amendment (Enhancing Privacy Protection) Act 2012, which amends the Privacy Act 1988. Further information regarding privacy provisions can be found via the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner at http://www.oaic.gov.au/ The Hairdressing Act 2003 From 15 December 2006, a regulation was made to allow an employer to employ a person under the age of 21 years as a Hairdresser if they had successfully completed the Certificate III in Hairdressing through a nonapprenticeship pathway. In November 2007, a regulation was amended to also include that an employer be allowed to employ a person under the age of 21 years as a beauty therapist, if they had successfully completed the Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy through a non-apprenticeship pathway. Public Health Act 2010 and Public Health Regulations 2012 Part 3 Environmental Health Division 4 of the Act defines the Control of Skin Penetration Procedures (this replaces the previous Skin Penetration Guidelines). The new Regulation replaces the Public Health (Skin Penetration) Regulation 2000. The revised Regulation is designed to better protect public health by formalizing infection control requirements. The Regulation will also allow more streamlined and flexible enforcement practices and the penalties for breaches have been significantly increased. The Skin Penetration Regulations regulates body decorating and grooming practices carried out by people who are not registered as health professionals. The regulated body decorating and grooming industries include: acupuncture beauty treatments body, nose and ear piercing cosmetic enhancements colonic lavage tattooing; and blood cholesterol and glucose measurement Hairdressing and other body decorating and grooming practices which do not deliberately pierce the skin are not regulated. The regulation specifies procedures to prevent disease transmission, requires operators to be registered with the local council and empowers environmental health officers to carry out inspections. http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/phact/Documents/is3-skin-penetration.pdf Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 49 of 115 Apprenticeship and Traineeship Act 2001 An amendment to Section 25 of this Act has removed the condition that those under 21 years of age must be an apprentice until turning 21. This means that once a person has a Certificate III in Hairdressing or Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy, regardless of age, that person is defined as qualified. National Vocational Education and Training Regulator Act 2011 This Act provided a National VET Regulator (ASQA) for the VET sector, removing regulation from the states. This regulator provides registration to training organisations to undertake and award nationally recognised training. The Standards for NVR Registered Training Organisations 2012 are the present standards that all RTOs need to comply with. Copyright Act 1968 We are aware of copyright requirements and TAC takes its obligations to preserve copyright seriously. Students are advised to consult their trainer as to their obligations under copyright. TAC has a Copyright Agency License (CAL) to protect students and staff from copyright infringement. It is the responsibility of all staff to ensure the requirements of relevant legislation are met at all times. Use the web sites indicated, or contact the Quality & Compliance Manager 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 of study. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 20 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 50 of 115 Management Meetings 1. Scope The purpose and scope of this policy and procedure is to provide a coordinated and consistent flow of information concerning the operations of The Australasian College Broadway (TAC) by allowing personnel to present information via Departmental Managers/Heads of Faculties to the CEO. The CEO uses this information to make informed decisions and recommendations regarding the continuing compliant operation of the RTO. 2. Meeting cascade The operational department managers meet with their teams on a frequency as nominated by the department head. The purpose of these departmental meetings is to discuss operational matters arising within the department’s area of responsibility. Faculty Heads conduct team meetings on a two weekly basis with trainers and assessors. The purpose of these meetings is to coordinate the activities of the individual faculties, for trainers and assessors to report on student related issues such as attendance, misbehaviour and progress. Meetings also allow trainers and assessors to provide feedback regarding quality of training and assessment material, college facilities and equipment. The department and faculty meetings are an opportunity for all to raise Continuous Improvement matters. These matters are discussed and if determined that implementation would be beneficial or address non-compliance they will either be actioned at department or faculty level or referred to the next level of meeting if requiring a college wide response. Heads of Faculty Meeting consists of the Heads of Faculty with the Managers of Sales and Marketing, Social Media, Student Information Management Group, Human Resources, Quality and Compliance and General Manager meeting with the CEO. This meeting allows the faculties to discuss issues with other department heads to quickly solve any requirements and so all are aware of the issues that face each faculty. The Senior Management Team is the Chief Executive Officer, General Manager, Quality & Compliance Manager, Sales and Marketing Manager, Chief Information Officer, Facilities Manager, Social Media Manager, Human Resources Manager, Financial Controller, Student Information Management Group Manager and Heads of Faculty. Senior Management Team meetings are held at least once every three months and as required if considered necessary by the CEO. The purpose of the Senior Management Team meeting is to coordinate the governance arrangements of The Australasian College Broadway. This is achieved by allowing key personnel to present status report to the CEO, to review the implementation of the ongoing business plan and to undertake a review of management arrangements relating to compliance requirements of the RTO. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 51 of 115 The Senior Management Team meeting is intended to compliment the quarterly Continuous Improvement Committee meeting and it is expected that opportunities for improvement will often be identified during management meetings and will feed into the continuous improvement process. Depending on the urgency the Department Head or Head of Faculty can refer the continuous improvement matter directly to the Quality and Compliance Manager or CEO for approval and implementation. 3. Meeting information flow Senior Management Team Meetings Meetings Chief Executive Officer General Manager Quality & Compliance Manager Chief Information Officer Social Media Manager Human Resources Manager Facilities Manager Financial Controller Student Information Management Group Manager Heads of Faculty Meetings Chief Executive Officer General Manager Heads of Faculty Student Information Management Group Team Faculty Trainer and Assessors Sales & Marketing Information Technology Human Resources Finance Quality & Compliance Social Media Social Media Sales & Marketing Student Information Management Group 4. Continuous Improvement Committee Beyond the above meetings there is a quarterly Continuous Improvement Committee meeting (CIC) which meets to review the implemented improvements and to ensure the college wide implementation has taken place and to strategically forward think and plan for system wide improvements as a result of upcoming operational or legislative requirements. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 52 of 115 5. Communication of meeting outcomes All meetings have minutes taken with action points documented and responsibility assigned. Minutes are distributed to all meeting members. 6. Management review of compliance elements As part of the standing agenda of all management meetings, the management team will review and record Continuous Improvement requests to improve and maintain compliance. The purpose of reviewing compliance is twofold: It acts as an ongoing educational opportunity for the management team to consider the management responsibilities in complying with specific elements of compliance. It allows the opportunity to undertake a deliberate analysis of The Australasian College Broadway management arrangements that support compliance and to identify opportunities for improvement that can improve compliance and the quality of training, assessment and client services. This process results in the flow of information from trainers/assessors and administrative staff (via the Heads of Faculty and Department Heads) to the CEO. With the combined information flow from all areas of the college, the CEO remains constantly informed as to any compliance issues arising and any other operational matters impacting on the RTO. Using this information the CEO is able to make strategic decisions and recommendations affecting the continued compliant operation of the RTO, based on feedback received from trainers and assessors and other staff members. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 17.2; 18.1; 18.2 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 53 of 115 Marketing & Advertising 1. Scope It is the policy of TAC to ensure that all marketing of training activities will be conducted with integrity, accuracy and professionalism; avoiding vague, misleading or ambiguous statements. All information must be accurate, professional and in plain English. All final marketing and advertising of TAC training delivery and assessment services is the responsibility of the CEO via the work of the Sales and Marketing Manager and Social Media Manager, with course specific information coming from the relevant Head of Faculty. 2. Process The Sales and Marketing Manager along with the Social Media Manager will ensure the following practices are adhered to by: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Obtaining written permission before use of information about any individual or organisation in any marketing materials, (this includes newspapers, social media, magazines, brochures, flyers, radio and television advertising) and will abide by any conditions that are placed upon the use of that information. Accurately representing all of its training and assessment services to all prospective clients and stakeholders at all times. Ensuring that all individuals or organisations are provided with full details of any conditions in any contractual arrangements related to marketing and advertising. Defining AQF qualifications only if TAC is registered with the scope to deliver those qualifications. Clearly identifying nationally recognised training products (AQF qualifications) separately from courses without such recognised status. Adhering to the guidelines and specifications of use in marketing and advertising materials of the Nationally Recognised Training logos. Using the correct codes and titles of all training package qualifications as on the TAC scope of registration. Ensuring that TAC provider number is displayed on all appropriate marketing and advertising materials. Ensuring all marketing or promotional literature and general media advertising will not: o Encourage unrealistic expectations about the level of qualifications attainable and the facilities and equipment provided o Make any claim of approval or recognition that is inaccurate or use misleading or false comparisons of courses provided by competitors o Make any misleading statements concerning the qualifications or experience of its staff o Make misleading or false statements about the prospects of employment of graduates following the completion of training. 3. Marketing Approval Procedure All prospective advertising and marketing activities are initiated by Sales and Marketing Manager, Social Media Manager and the CEO. CEO, General Manager, Sales and Marketing Manager and Social Media Manager are responsible for the final content with Heads of Faculty providing specific qualification information as required. Request to Create or Amend a Document sheet is attached to the proposed marketing and advertising collateral/documentation. For course brochures the use of the Brochure Checklist Form is used to check process for new/revised course brochures. Final draft copy provided to Quality and Compliance Manager for compliance check and version control and listed on appropriate version control register if required. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 54 of 115 6. Final draft copy with version control provided to General Manager for final proof reading. 7. RTO Manager signs a hard copy of the document as complete and final document is provided to CEO. 8. The final version of the marketing material is then approved by the CEO for publication. 9. Final document provided to Information Systems Manager and Social Media Manager (as required) or designate to disseminate in electronic or print media. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16.3; 24 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 55 of 115 Orientation 1. Purpose The purpose of the student orientation is to ensure that every student has all the required information and understanding of their rights and responsibilities while a student at TAC and TACs rights and responsibilities to them as students. For many students starting study again is an exciting, challenging and sometimes confusing time. It involves meeting lots of new and varied people, perhaps changing lifestyle, getting used to a new environment and learning new things in new ways. It's frequently a challenging time – whether making the move from high school or returning to study as a mature age student. The TAC orientation is designed to make this transition to study a lot easier, providing the opportunity on the first day to meet other students and become familiar with the campus and training staff according to area of study. In this way the student’s connection and immediate involvement with the facility and faculty, as well as their subsequent learning opportunities, will be more easily facilitated. It is TACs intent that during orientation students will be able to sort out any concerns, make sense of their timetable and get answers to questions about how things work at TAC. Our aim is for each student to feel confident about being a student and starting classes with us. 2. Orientation Notified Prior to orientation and at the time of enrolment, prospective students are provided with all relevant documentation and information for orientation. All students are advised of the date and time of their orientation on completion of the enrolment process. Students are again advised of the date and time of orientation via a Confirmation of Enrolment letter sent to the address nominated on the enrolment form. 3. Procedure All students attend an orientation on their first day at TAC. Students are met at the main reception on the day, where they sign into the building and are guided to the designated area for the face to face facilitation of the orientation program. Any outstanding documentation, TFN, proof of citizenship etc. must be provided prior to orientation commencement. SIMG staff will assist in this process. Sales and Marketing Manager is responsible for the orientation and guides students via the orientation program timetable. The student is provided with a copy of the current student handbook which provides a base for the information covered. Students are made aware of the contents of the handbook and in particular their rights and obligations while being a student at TAC. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 56 of 115 TAC, in providing an overview of the college as the first part of the orientation, covers subjects such as physical site, amenities, the emergency evacuation procedure, attendance requirements, Workplace Health and Safety, personal safety and the TAC Code of Practice. Students are advised of their rights and responsibilities and specifically as it relates to legislation such as antidiscrimination and privacy provisions. Orientation program takes the students through salient points in the student handbook and the student is required to sign the Declaration of Understanding at the back of the handbook to acknowledge that they have read, understood and agreed to the code of conduct and expectations of students on campus. The original is photocopied and placed in the students file. The student is provided with the copy for their reference. Those students under 18 years, will have the Declaration of Understanding posted (with cover letter) to the parent/guardian for them to sign as acknowledgement of such a document that their child/ward has signed as having read and understood the contents. Students are issued with a uniform and any consumables relevant to their course of study. Students are introduced to the relevant Head of Faculty for an extended faculty orientation to guide the student through subject matter specific to the faculty and the students study. All orientation paperwork is given to Student Information Management Group (SIMG) and is filed into the individual student file. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16.1; 16.5; 17.1 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 57 of 115 Partnership Agreements 1. Scope This policy and procedure applies to TAC and outlines the requirements of a partnership agreement for the delivery of training and assessment of any course or unit(s) of competency. 2. Definitions A VET Partnership is an agreement with another organisation or individual for the delivery and assessment of a qualification and/or a unit(s) of competency on TAC scope of registration. A document called “Partnership Agreement” will be used to define the context of the agreement. 3. Partnership Agreements TAC has, and complies with, a written agreement with each organisation or individual that provides training and/or assessment on behalf of TAC. The agreement specifies how each party to the agreement will discharge its responsibilities for compliance with the Standards of the National VET Regulator (SNR). TAC will only permit provision of training and assessment services in a partnering arrangement with partners that are a signatory to a Partnership Agreement that is current at the time of service provision. Partnership Agreements are deemed current only if signed by all parties. 4. Process for Partnership Approval TAC CEO is the only person authorized to approve a Partnership Agreement on behalf of TAC. TAC CEO and authorized person from the proposed partner discuss all requirements for a partnership to be documented. A Partnership Agreement is entered into with all stipulations documented and signed by both parties to the agreement. Specifically, consideration will only be given to partnering requests where the following is satisfied: All resources used are compliant to SNR 15.3 All trainers/assessors met the requirements of SNR 15.4 The proposed agreement satisfies all requirements of the SNRs. 5. Recording Once a Partnership has been documented and approved, it will be recorded in the Partnership Register. 6. Process for Partnership Monitoring Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 58 of 115 All partners will use the TAC approved training and assessment tools and appropriate forms for recording these activities. TAC will conduct regular monitoring (six monthly) of all training and assessment conducted by its partners. A yearly audit may be undertaken be against all aspects of SNR as appropriate to the partnership agreement. Such an audit will have particular attention to the delivery of training and the process of assessment. Where there is an identified weakness in the system this will be rectified as soon as possible. 7. Issuing of Qualifications or Statements of Attainment For the actual issuing of Qualifications or Statements of Attainment, the partner organisation is to provide TAC with details of students that have successfully completed courses. Based on this data TAC will prepare and issue qualifications or statement of attainment. The partner organisation may then provide these RTO issued SoAs or qualifications to the student. If the partner is a RTO then a Statement of Attainment will be issued by the RTO undertaking the training/assessment on TACs behalf. This SoA will then be recognised under TAC Credit Transfer policy and procedure. 8. Current Partnerships At this time TAC maintains only one partnership agreement. NSW Surf Life Saving undertakes training and assessment of the First Aid unit for Diploma of Beauty Therapy students. This is delivered and assessed by their trainers at TAC premise. SoA is awarded which is then seen as a Credit Transfer. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 17.3 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 59 of 115 Policy and Procedure Development 1. Purpose For the purposes of this policy, Policy and Procedure documents relate to individual aspects of TAC operations aligned with the requirements of the VET Quality Framework and in particular the Standards for NVR Registered Training Organisations. This policy and procedure has been created to ensure consistency in policy and procedure documentation and issue. 2. Policy and Procedures TAC has various policy and procedures in place which are accessed via the intranet by staff and for students as required. These are presented in two ways: individual policy and procedures or via the complete document as the Policy and Procedure Manual. These documents are to be kept current by the Quality and Compliance Manager. 3. Individual Department/Faculty Policy and Procedures Each faculty or department will keep separate to the Policy and Procedure Manual, procedural documents that affect only their own work requirements. 4. Policy and Procedure Creation As part of TAC continuing improvement process, any staff member can recommend that a Policy and Procedure is required to cover an aspect of TAC wide operations as an RTO. Such requests will come through the Continuous Improvement process in place. If a Policy and Procedure is required the decision to create such a document is taken by either the CEO, General Manager or Quality and Compliance Manger. Creation of a new Policy and Procedure is undertaken by the Quality and Compliance Manager with content input from the request originator as to the content and procedure required. 5. Procedure These procedural steps apply for both a new or revision to an existing Policy and Procedure. Staff member will consult with relevant Head of Faculty or Department Head as to the need for a college wide Policy and Procedure to be created. If agreed, the Faculty/Department Head will discuss the matter with the CEO, General Manager or Quality and Compliance Manager. If a decision is to continue the development of a new Policy and Procedure, the framework of required text is discussed with the originator. First draft is provided and review of this undertaken by the Quality and Compliance Manager in consultation with the document content owner. Amendments are made and a final draft is prepared along with a Request to Create or Amend a Document. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 60 of 115 Documents are provided to the General Manager or delegate for final proof reading and checking. Policy and Procedure is returned to the Quality and Compliance Manager, who adds appropriate template and version control. The individual Policy and Procedure is added to the Policy and Procedure Manual and changes added to the intranet. The Policy and Procedure is provided to the Chief Information Officer or delegate for uploading to the website. A TAC wide email is sent by the Quality and Compliance Manager advising of the new or revised Policy and Procedure being available. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 15-25 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 61 of 115 Privacy and Personal Information 1. Policy scope This policy applies to all individuals who provide personal information to TAC for the primary purpose of education delivery and associated government requirements and is interpreted to conform to the requirements of the Privacy Amendment (Enhancing Privacy Protection) Act 2012 and the Privacy Regulations 2013. The legislation is held electronically by TAC and is accessed by request to the Manager Quality & Compliance. 2. Collection and use of information The information that an individual provides to TAC may be shared with the Commonwealth, State Governments and designated bodies only as required by legislation. Some sensitive information (i.e. health, LL & N levels) is required to help our duty of care to students and staff with all information being solicited for the intended purpose. We do not receive unsolicited information. Anonymity of, and use of pseudonymity by, the individual is not permitted as it is impracticable for TAC to deal with individuals who have not identified themselves or who have used a pseudonym. Students will have an individual student identification number which is used for identification purposes only and if the government requires own identifier (i.e. Unique Student Identifier) this will be separate to the TAC internal identifier. TAC will not disclose an individual’s personal information to an individual or an organisation other than as required by legislation unless: written consent has been provided by the individual to disclose personal information to another person TAC believes there are reasonable grounds that the disclosure is necessary to prevent or lessen a serious and imminent threat to the life or health of the individual or of another person the disclosure is reasonably necessary for the enforcement of the criminal law or of the law imposing a pecuniary penalty, or for the purpose of the protection of the public revenue. There are no circumstances where TAC provides any information collected to any entity that is not onshore. Where personal information is disclosed for the purposes of enforcement of criminal law or of a law imposing a pecuniary penalty, or for the purpose of protection of public revenue TAC will retain a record and the circumstances in which the information has been disclosed. TAC will not use personal information for any marketing purpose unless consent is obtained from the individual. TAC is required to keep information regarding qualifications gained by students for a period of 30 years. This information is to re-issue the original qualification(s) or Statement of Attainment. 3. Australian Privacy Principles TAC adheres to the requirements of the 13 Australian Privacy Principles from Schedule 1 of the Privacy Amendment (Enhancing Privacy Protection) Act 2012. A copy of the 13 Australian Privacy Principles can be downloaded from: www.oaic.gov.au being the site of the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 62 of 115 All information is in individual student or staff files under locked access. Electronic data is held via password protected computer access with restricted access. Staff information is held by the Human Resource Manager and student information is held by the Student Information Management Group. All information is disposed of when no longer required – refer to Student Record Management Policy and Procedure. 4. VET FEE-HELP assistance Personal information will be collected to assess an individual’s entitlement to Commonwealth assistance under the Higher Education Support Act 2003 (HESA) and to allocate a Commonwealth Higher Education Student Support Number (CHESSN). TAC will disclose personal information as required to the appropriate Commonwealth Department for this purpose, who will store such personal information in the VET FEE-HELP database. As VET FEE-HELP assistance relates to government student loans personal information will also be disclosed to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). The Request for VET FEE-HELP Assistance form is a Commonwealth record, subject to the Archives Act 1983 which is required to be kept for 7 years after the student has completed their course, this does not include the student’s TFN. Further information can be obtained from: http://www.innovation.gov.au/HigherEducation/TertiaryEducation/ProviderInformation/ApprovedVETProvid erInformation/Pages/default.aspx 5. Students receiving Centrelink payments On request TAC must provide to Centrelink personal information regarding students that are enrolled in Centrelink student payment approved courses. This includes evidence of enrolment, attendance and course progression. 6. Access to personal information Students are entitled to have access to their student record on request and there is no charge for this access. To facilitate this, students who request to access their records are to be provided with this access at the earliest opportunity. They may view their record in the presence of a representative from TAC. Students who wish to access or peruse their computerised or paper record retained by TAC will be permitted to do so during office hours (9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday). Access will need to be arranged prior with the Head of Faculty and Student Information Management Manager. Records may not be removed from TAC. Students are permitted to take notes on information appearing on their record. The file remains the property of TAC and is to be retained to comply with regulatory requirements. Requests by students to access records are to be dealt with quickly and in a friendly and professional manner. If an individual identifies that there is error with the personal information being kept by TAC a request to amend the information can be made. Corrections will be made within seven days from the error being identified and a notation will be made on the individuals file. Written requests should be sent to: Student Information Management Manager Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 63 of 115 MHM Australasia Pty Ltd 87 Bay Street GLEBE NSW 2037 The Student Information Management Manager will process this request within seven days on receipt of the written request. 7. Staff access to records Staff are entitled to have access to their records on request and there is no charge for this access. To facilitate this, staff who request to access their records are to be provided with this access at the earliest opportunity as determined by Human Resource Manager. They may view their record in the presence of a representative from TAC. Records may not be removed from TAC. Staff are permitted to take notes on information appearing on their record. The file remains the property of TAC and is to be retained to comply with regulatory requirements. Staff can request any outdated or inaccurate information be corrected in their staff file. TAC has an open and transparent methodology in the collection and maintenance of records. If a complaint is raised in regard to the Privacy of Personal information, the complainant may in writing provide their compliant to the General Manager who will respond as per TAC Grievance and Appeal policy and procedure. 8. Australian Privacy Principles Australian Privacy Principle 1 — Open and transparent management of personal information Australian Privacy Principle 2 —Anonymity and pseudonymity Australian Privacy Principle 3 — Collection of solicited personal information Australian Privacy Principle 4 —Dealing with unsolicited personal information Australian Privacy Principle 5 — Notification of the collection of personal information Australian Privacy Principle 6 — Use or disclosure of personal information Australian Privacy Principle 7 — Direct marketing Australian Privacy Principle 8 — Cross-border disclosure of personal information Australian Privacy Principle 9 — Adoption, use or disclosure of government related identifiers Australian Privacy Principle 10 — Quality of personal information Australian Privacy Principle 11 — Security of personal information Australian Privacy Principle 12 — Access to personal information Australian Privacy Principle 13 — Correction of personal information This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16; 17 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 64 of 115 Professional Development 1. Purpose To affirm the entitlement of all employees to targeted professional development and to provide information on various professional and capability development options that may be utilised with and by all employees. In providing professional development opportunities TAC recognises that learning occurs over time and is best when it is experiential and embedded in workplace practices that emphasise personal growth, collaborative learning, cross-cultural training, timeliness, inclusiveness and relevance. 2. NVR Standards The Standards for NVR Registered Training Organisations 2012 are explicit in the requirements of trainer professional development. NVR Standard 15.4 Training and assessment is delivered by trainers and assessors who: (a) have the necessary training and assessment competencies as determined by the National Skills Standards Council or its successors; and (b) have the relevant vocational competencies at least to the level being delivered or assessed; and (c) can demonstrate current industry skills directly relevant to the training/assessment being undertaken; and (d) continue to develop their vocational education and training (VET) knowledge and skills as well as their industry currency and trainer/assessor competence. 3. Performance Development Section 5 Performance Development of the Staff Management Policy states “As part of it overall continuous improvement system designed to improve its delivery of educational services, TAC has a program of continuing performance development for its trainers which includes: 1 Regular Professional Development days designed to enhance or acquire skills required to maintain productivity and competency. 2 Annual performance reviews and annual performance planning, with quarterly progress meetings”. TAC provides professional development days for training staff throughout the year and staff are encouraged also to obtain external professional development opportunities such as team teaching and assessing participating in training opportunities networking with other training providers subscribing to trade magazines Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 65 of 115 attending industry conferences liaising with the relevant Industries Skills Council 4. Record of Continuing Professional Development All trainers are to self-manage their Record of Continuing Professional Development document, recording professional development under the heading of: Date Activity Type Presenter Topic This document is to be completed and provided to Human Resources each December for filing in their employee records with a second copy provided to Quality and Compliance to compile into one continuous folder to show the combined professional development of trainers. A hard copy folder held with Quality and Compliance has copies of the information provided at each TAC organised professional development event, which includes the attendance list and program. Electronically held information regarding each professional development event is also held by Quality and Compliance. All non-training staff are encouraged to participate in professional development relative to their area of expertise and interest and discussion pertaining to these events are included in the annual review by the Human Resources department. Assessors benefit from industry input in the assessment validation undertaken yearly and Heads of Faculty interact with industry in the development of the Training and Assessment Strategies. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 15.4; 17; 20 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 66 of 115 Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) The purpose of this policy is to acknowledge that, in accordance with legislation, MHM Australasia Pty Ltd trading as the Australasian College Broadway (TAC) (National provider code: 6980) must recognise Recognition of Prior Learning for individuals who have had previous formal and informal learning which when assessed have achieved the required learning outcomes in order to gain competency for a unit/s or qualification. Procedure The total RPL kit developed by TAC is in three sections: Section 1 – Application Pack (for candidates) Section 2 – Unit Evidence Pack (for candidates; received at interview) Section 3 – Assessor Recording Pack (for college use) Application for Recognition of Prior Learning begins by ticking the RPL/credit transfer box when completing TAC’s application form. The Enrolment Officer will notify relevant Head of Faculty as to the student’s intention for RPL application. The Head of Faculty will provide the candidate with the Application Pack (Section 1 of the kit). The applicant provides more specific indication of the units they are wishing to apply RPL on the application form, which is returned to the Head of Faculty. The Head of Faculty will contact and meet with the candidate to discuss the application and explain the RPL process in more detail applicable to the candidate’s individual circumstances. Head of Faculty provides a customized RPL Unit Evidence Pack (Section 2 of the RPL kit) The candidate will be required to complete the Unit Evidence Pack and submit valid, sufficient, current and authentic evidence that meets the unit requirements to demonstrate competence. All evidence must be submitted within 3 months from application. The candidate may be required to undergo additional assessment such as a practical skill demonstration if evidence is not sufficient. The assessor (generally the Head of Faculty) completes the Assessor Recording Pack (Section 3 of the RPL kit). The candidate will be advised in writing of the outcome and the course is adjusted as required. A candidate wanting to appeal a decision can do so by referring to TAC’s grievance policies. Within the Application Pack is the information the candidate will need in understanding the initial process of application as the pack contains: Initial information of the RPL steps Glossary of terms Evidence that may be required Appeals policy and procedures Application for recognition form Self-assessment of units applying for Referees contact information. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 67 of 115 The personal interview with the Head of Faculty is required to better understand the candidate’s intention and circumstances to inform the units that may be applied for. The Head of Faculty provides the required units in the Unit Evidence pack which has the unit information that the candidate is required to show evidence against. The individual cost is calculated per unit of competency being applied for (generally $250 per unit) and advised to the candidate. Ongoing Improvement The Recognition of Prior Learning process will be assessed and revised yearly and as required if earlier. The RPL process in being candidate centred is subject to ongoing improvement as notified from the validation exercise and via ad hoc feedback from candidates and assessors using the process. The following page has a schematic overview of the RPL process. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 68 of 115 Flow chart of RPL Process Complete the application form ↓ Meet with Head of Faculty ↓ Receive the RPL Unit Evidence Pack ↓ Assemble evidence ↓ Submit evidence ↓ Additional assessment (if required) ↓ Result ↓ RPL granted RPL declined ↓ Advised in writing ↓ ↓ Option to appeal ↓ Recorded on file ↓ Course adjustment made as required Outcome recorded on file ↓ Course adjustment made as required if successful This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 15.5 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 69 of 115 Re-Crediting a VET FEE-HELP Balance 1. Policy MHM Australasia Pty Limited (TAC) will conduct this procedure in compliance with Schedule 1A of the Higher Education Support Act 2003 (HESA) and the VET Provider Guidelines. For the purposes of this procedure an eligible student is an Australian citizen or an Australian resident permanent humanitarian visa holder enrolled in a VET FEE-HELP enabled course with TAC. TAC will ensure that all eligible students are informed of the census dates for each VET FEE-HELP unit of study by the prescribed dates and the procedures for the re-crediting of a VET FEE-HELP balance. If an eligible student who has requested VET FEE-HELP assistance withdraws from a VET unit of study on or before the census date for that VET FEE-HELP unit of study, the eligible student will not incur a VET FEE-HELP debt for that VET FEE-HELP unit of study. If an eligible student who has requested VET FEE-HELP assistance withdraws from a VET FEE-HELP unit of study after the census date for that VET FEE-HELP unit of study, the eligible student will incur a VET FEE-HELP debt for that VET FEE-HELP unit of study. 2. Re-crediting a student’s VET FEE-HELP balance If a student withdraws from a VET unit of study after census date, or has been unable to successfully complete a VET FEE-HELP unit of study, and believes this was due to special circumstances then the student may apply to have their VET FEE-HELP balance re-credited for the affected units. TAC will re-credit the student’s VET FEE-HELP balance if it is satisfied that special circumstances apply that: are beyond the student’s control; and did not make their full impact on the student until on or after the census date for the VET unit of study in question; make it impractical for the student to complete the requirements for that VET unit of study. TAC will be satisfied that a student’s circumstances are beyond the student’s control if a situation occurs that a reasonable person would consider is not due to the person’s action or inaction, either direct or indirect, and for which the student is not responsible. The situation must be unusual, uncommon or abnormal. Each application will be examined and determined on its merits by considering a student’s claim together with independent supporting documentation substantiating the claim. Initial applications for the re-crediting of a student’s VET FEE-HELP balance are to be made, in writing, to: VET FEE-HELP Administrator MHM Australasia Pty Ltd 1/87 Bay Street GLEBE NSW 2037 The VET FEE-HELP Administrator is also the Student Information Management Manager. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 70 of 115 The procedure for the re-crediting of a VET FEE-HELP balance is as follows: (a) when a student withdraws from a VET FEE-HELP unit of study, TAC shall confirm the withdrawal by giving notice to the student in writing stating the date at which the withdrawal has taken effect; (b) when a student fails to meet the requirements of a VET FEE-HELP unit of study, TAC shall confirm the failure by giving notice to the student in writing of the final result for that VET FEE-HELP unit of study after results for the VET FEE-HELP unit of study have been properly approved; (c) the student must apply in writing to the VET FEE-HELP Administrator within 12 months from the date specified in the notice as the day of withdrawal or the date of receiving their final results for the VET unit of study. TAC may exercise its discretion to waive this requirement if in its opinion it was not possible for the application to be made before the end of the 12 month period; (d) The VET FEE-HELP Administrator shall advise the student of the outcome of the application within 28 days stating the reasons for the decision; (e) The VET FEE-HELP Administrator shall also advise the student of their rights for a review of the decision if they are not satisfied with its outcome. The VET FEE-HELP Administrator will consider the application and will agree to such requests if they are satisfied that there were special circumstances in the student’s case. If a decision is made to re-credit the student’s VET FEE-HELP balance, TAC will notify required authorities (i.e. Australian Taxation Office) and will repay to the Commonwealth any VET FEE-HELP assistance received on the student’s behalf and the student’s VET FEE-HELP debt for those units of study will be removed. 3. Review of a decision If a student is not satisfied with the decision made by the VET FEE-HELP Administrator in relation to recrediting their VET FEE-HELP balance they may request a review of the decision. The review shall be carried out by the Review Officer (CEO) who is senior to the original decision maker. Any such request must be submitted to the Review Officer in writing and: (a) must be lodged within 28 days of receiving notice of the original decision, unless the CEO allows a longer period; and (b) must specify the reasons for making the request. The Review Officer is: Chief Executive Officer MHM Australasia Pty Ltd 1/87 Bay Street GLEBE NSW 2037 The Review Officer shall acknowledge receipt of an application for a review of the refusal to re-credit a VET FEE-HELP balance in writing and inform the applicant that if the Review Officer has not advised the applicant of a decision within 45 days of having received the application for review, the Review Officer is taken to have confirmed the original decision. The Review Officer shall: (a) seek all relevant information from the person who made the original decision; (b) review the case within three weeks and advise the student of the decision in writing giving the reasons for the reviewer’s decision. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 71 of 115 The Review Officer may: (a) confirm the original decision; (b) vary the original decision; or (c) set the original decision aside and substitute a new decision. The Review Officer will give written notice of the decision setting out the reasons for the decision. The applicant shall also be advised in the decision of the right to apply to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal for a review of the decision; and be provided with the contact details of the closest Administrative Appeals Tribunal Registry and the approximate costs of lodging an appeal. Where a student is dissatisfied with the reviewed decision they may apply to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal for consideration of TAC’s decision to refuse to re-credit their VET FEE-HELP balance. The student may supply additional information to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal which they did not previously supply to TAC either in the original application or the request for review. The direct link for the Administrative Appeals Tribunal ‘Applying for Review’ information is: http://aat.gov.au/ApplyingForAReview/WhenCanTheAATHelp.htm The direct link for the Administrative Appeals Tribunal ‘Forms and Fees’ information is: http://www.aat.gov.au/FormsAndFees/Fees.htm#reduced (The full fee as of January 2014 is $816.00, which may be reduced by the AAT Registrar) This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16.1; 16.3; 16.7; 17.1; 17.4; 22.2 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 72 of 115 Refund Policy 1. Non VET FEE-HELP Enabled Course 1.1 Scope The purpose of this policy is to acknowledge that, in accordance with legislation, MHM Australasia Pty Ltd trading as The Australasian College Broadway (TAC) must provide TAC’s refund policy applicable to students enrolled in TAC. This policy applies to full fee paying students who are enrolled in TAC. This refund policy is not applicable to students that who have applied for VET FEE-HELP assistance, are eligible and are enrolled in a VET FEE-HELP course of study. 1.2 Policy The course cost fee is made up of two components. Registration represents 20% of the fee and is nonrefundable. The remaining 80% of the total fee represents the tuition fee. Once a student has paid a deposit, or paid for their course in full, it is understood that the student has seriously considered all aspects of their chosen career path and has made a commitment to TAC to complete their course. On receipt of such money and commitment, TAC has financial procedures to ensure adequate staff is employed; resources, materials, products and equipment are available for the number of students enrolled. All refund applications must be discussed with the CEO. In the event that a student wants to cancel their course 28 days prior to the course commencement, all prepaid tuition fees are fully refunded. This excludes the 20% registration fee which as stated is not refundable. In the event that a student wants to cancel their enrolment in the course having given less than 28 days’ notice prior to the course commencement date, no refund will be given. No refunds will be made after the course commences unless TAC defaults in the delivery of the course (see guarantee). Refunds will be paid within 14 days after TAC receives the written request and it is assessed. All refunds will be paid to the person named on the enrolment form unless TAC is advised in writing by the person named on the enrolment form to pay the refund to someone else. Students under 18, refunds will be paid to the parent or guardian named on the enrolment form. Refunds will be paid in Australian dollars (AUD$) and a written statement detailing how any refund amount has been calculated will be provided. Requests for a refund based on extenuating or compassionate circumstances will be considered on a case-bycase basis. If an enrolment is cancelled by TAC for breaching the Student Code of Conduct, no refund of the tuition fee will be given. Outcome of the application is to be provided to the applicant in writing within 14 days from TAC receiving the refund request. If a refund is granted, payment will be made by electronic transfer into the applicant’s nominated bank account. 1.3 Definitions Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 73 of 115 Guarantee Refers to TAC’s guarantee that the course will be delivered in full. In the event that the course cannot be delivered, students are protected by ACPETS Tuition Assurance Scheme which TAC is a full member of. The student will be placed in a suitable alternative course within the RTO or in an external RTO delivering the same course so that the student may continue to complete the course. If this cannot be arranged, the student will be entitled to a refund of the portion of the course content tuition not delivered. Start date Refers to the start date of the course as appears on the Letter of Offer provided to each student when accepted into TAC /course. 1.4 Procedure Application for a refund is to be put in writing to: Chief Executive Officer MHM Australasia Pty Ltd 87 Bay Street GLEBE NSW 2037 2. Refund Policy – VET FEE-HELP Enabled Course 2.1 Scope The purpose of this policy is to acknowledge that, in accordance with legislation, MHM Australasia Pty Ltd trading as the Australasian College Broadway (TAC) must provide TAC’s refund policy applicable to VET FEEHELP. This policy applies to eligible students who are enrolled in VET FEE-HELP enabled course/s. All Diploma and above level courses delivered by TAC are eligible for VET FEE-HELP. An eligible student under HESA is: An Australian citizen or a permanent humanitarian visa holder who will be resident in Australian for the unit of study enrolled in. 2.2 Procedure Request to withdraw from a unit/s of study must be put in writing to the Sales and Marketing Manager. (See Student Withdrawal policy and procedure). Where tuition fees are being paid in instalments and by census date the student is either ineligible or evidence of illegibility for VET-FEE HELP assistance has not been provided to TAC no refund will be given. 1. In the event of a student withdrawing from a VET FEE-HELP unit of study prior to the census date for that VET FEE-HELP unit of study: a. 100% of the tuition fees paid for that FEE-HELP unit of study will be refunded to the student; and b. the student will not incur a VET FEE-HELP debt. 2. In the event of a student withdrawing from a VET FEE-HELP unit of study after the census date for that VET FEE-HELP unit of study: a. no refund is applicable; and b. the student will incur a VET FEE-HELP debt. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 74 of 115 3. A student who withdraws after the census date for a VET FEE-HELP unit of study, may apply for special consideration in line with the Student Review Procedures for Re-crediting a FEE-HELP Balance. 4. TAC’s current Student Review Procedures for Re-Crediting a FEE-HELP Balance, is available to students and prospective students on TAC website: www.tac.edu.au The ‘census date/s’ for each unit of study is reflected in the Schedule of Tuition Fees and census dates are provided to all students at time of application. Where a refund is applicable, it will be paid within 14 days after TAC receives the written request and only if the census date has not been reached. Any refund will be paid to the person named in the student’s enrolment unless TAC is advised in writing by the student to pay the refund to someone else. Refunds will be paid in Australian dollars (AUD$) and a written statement detailing how any refund amount has been calculated will be provided. If a student’s enrolment is cancelled by TAC for breaching the Student Code of Conduct, no refund of the tuition fee will be given once the census date for the VET FEE-HELP unit/s of study enrolled have been reached. ACPET Australian Student Tuition Assurance Scheme (ASTAS) TAC has full membership of the ACPET ASTAS which protects students undertaking VET FEE-HELP enabled courses in the unlikely event that TAC cannot deliver the course to completion. In such a case ASTAS approved under the HESA Act 2003 provides means where the student may receive a refund of the unused tuition fees. Application for refund is to be put in writing to: Chief Executive Officer MHM Australasia Pty Ltd 87 Bay Street GLEBE NSW 2037 Outcome decision is to be provided to the student in writing within 14 days from TAC receiving the refund request. 2.3 Definitions Withdrawal Refers to withdrawal from a Unit of Study for the purposes of VET FEEHELP loan assistance. HESA Higher Education Support Act 2003 Unit of Study Terminology used by the Australian government to define a Unit of Study (which can include one or more units of competency) for the purposes of VET FEE-HELP. This has no relevance to the actual qualification or to the units of competency in order to gain the award Start date The start date is the start date of the course as provided to each student when accepted into TAC /course. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 22.2 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 75 of 115 Risk Management 1. Policy This Risk Management Policy and Procedure provides a commitment to a culture in which opportunities may be seized, and risks may be taken, in a risk aware way across the operation of TAC, with risk management being integral to management practice. TAC is committed to building an organisational culture where risk awareness and active, effective risk management form an integral part of all activities and are a core management capability and responsibility. TAC identifies and controls all possible and potential risks associated with its operation of a Registered Training Organisation and the maintaining of compliance. Identification and analysis of risks will be completed in accordance with the Risk Management Procedure, and is included in the Risk Assessment Matrix. Risk management is the systematic management of activities that involve a material degree of risk of loss or other damage to TAC. The purpose of this plan is to ensure that risk identification, assessment and mitigation are incorporated into the planning and management processes of the organisation to minimise risk and improve performance. Each operational area of the College will construct an Operational Area Risk Management Plan to identify possible risks and the mitigation action taken to control or remove the risk. This risk management is documented on the Operational Area Risk Matrix and is completed every 6 (six) months. The Operational Area Risk Matrix is to be sent to Manager Quality and Compliance by June 30 th and December 30th each year. Risks can emanate from internal and external sources. Risks can include issues such as client dissatisfaction, adverse publicity, physical safety and security of staff, low performing management and staff, equipment or computer failure, legal and contractual matters. It is not possible to have a totally risk free environment. Many decisions involve managing risks according to TAC assessment of what constitutes an acceptable level of risk and its judgments about the costs and benefits of particular courses of action. TAC objectives in adopting a risk management plan are to: Ensure that the major risks faced by TAC are identified, understood and appropriately managed; Ensure that TAC planning and operational processes focus on areas where risk management is needed; and Create an environment where staff takes responsibility for identifying and managing risk. 2. Procedure This procedure expresses our commitment to manage risks in accordance with a systematic risk management process encompassing: The identification of potential risks. The analysis of potential risks. The assessment and prioritising of potential risks. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 76 of 115 The development of a risk management matrix to treat risks. The monitoring of risks and review of risk management strategies. The provision of feedback to improve risk management. Integration of risk management into our business planning and monitoring processes. We recognise the need to prioritise the treatment of risk, to concentrate on those risks that have a greater likelihood of occurring and/or more severe consequences when they do. The matrix shown below is derived from the Australian Standard for Risk Management and indicates management action prescribed within our organisation to address categories of risk: 3. Risk matrix Consequences Likelihood Insignificant Minor Moderate Major Catastrophic Almost certain High Risk High Risk Extreme Risk Extreme Risk Extreme Risk Likely Moderate Risk High Risk High Risk Extreme Risk Extreme Risk Possible Low Risk Moderate Risk High Risk Extreme Risk Extreme Risk Unlikely Low Risk Low Risk Moderate Risk High Risk Extreme Risk Rare Low Risk Low Risk Moderate Risk High Risk High Risk Our response to risk: Extreme risk - all possible action is taken to avoid and insure against these risks. High risk – management is accountable and responsible for ensuring that these risks are managed effectively. Moderate risk - accountability and responsibility for effective management of these risks is delegated to staff at an appropriate level. Low risk - these risks are managed in the course of routine procedures, with regular review and reporting through management processes. 4. Mitigation Risk is identified and/or reviewed at regular meetings at a faculty or department level with escalation as required through Heads of Faculty or Senior Management Team Meetings with the CEO. This is to ensure that risk is managed in a timely manner and that the team is totally involved within the entire risk management process. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 77 of 115 TAC has a separate Workplace Health & Safety Manual which outlines how we manage and undertake these specific WH&S responsibilities. 5. Risk ratings Description Rating Slight inconvenience/difficulty in operational performance of a specific area of the Low College. Some accountability implications for the specific area of the College, but would not affect the College’s ability to meet key operational requirements. Recovery from such consequences would be handled quickly without the need to divert resources from core activity areas. Public perceptions of the College may alter slightly, but no significant damage or disruption occurs. Operational performance of the College would be compromised to the extent that Moderate revised planning would be required to overcome difficulties experienced by a specific area of the College. The College would experience some minor difficulty in complying with key regulatory requirements, which would require immediate revision with achieved recovery. Stakeholders may experience some difficulty pursuing their rights and entitlements. Considerable adverse public reaction may result in some damage and disruption to the College. Operational performance of a specific area of the College would be affected with the High College possibly unable to meet a major portion of its obligations and liabilities. The College’s asset/resource base may be significantly depleted. Recovering from consequences would be highly complicated and time consuming. Stakeholders would be unable to pursue their rights and entitlements. Public reaction would result in major disruptions. The College would be rendered dysfunctional in some manner. Extreme Operational performance would be compromised to the extent that the College is unable to meet obligations and liabilities in some activity areas. Severe accountability implications would result in the College possibly being unable to meet regulatory requirements. The College would incur significant financial losses. The College would be unable to recover from such consequences in time; however stakeholders would possibly face major consequences. Major adverse repercussions would affect the public standing of the College. The College would not be able to comply with many of its regulatory requirements effectively. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 15-25 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 78 of 115 Staff Management Policy 1. scope TAC places a high priority on attracting, recruiting and retaining skilled and competent staff in order to continue to deliver quality outcomes to its students. As such, it has dedicated process and resources to assist in managing its workforce to ensure ongoing productivity and sustainability of its operations. 2. Recruitment of Staff TAC is an equal opportunity employer and bases its recruitment decisions on merit, factoring in qualifications, experience and the competency required for each position. Employment decisions are not based on unlawful grounds of discrimination such as gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, age or disability. TAC has structured recruitment processes which are maintained and managed by its Human Resources department and implemented in conjunction with recruiting managers. These processes include: 1 2 3 4 5 An ‘authority to recruit’ process whereby the creation of new positions within the organisational structure are authorised by the CEO. This process requires the business case for the new position, a documented position description with selection criteria, which include the qualifications necessary for the particular role. An ‘authority to recruit’ process to fill vacancies for existing positions. This process includes a review of the position to ensure appropriateness to organisational needs and a review of the position description and selection criteria. A selection procedure which encompasses internal / external advertising, behavioural-based panel interview(s), relevant assessment, reference checks and qualification verification and communication with unsuccessful applicants. Records of the selection process are maintained by Human Resources in personnel files. Request for Contract of Employment/New Starter Authorisation form completed by Human Resources and approved by CEO. An offer of employment and the issuing of TAC’s employment contract. An executed copy of this employment contract is stored in the employee’s personnel file. 3. Qualifications Where applicable, successful applicants must hold the qualifications stipulated in the selection criteria for the position. Applicants are to provide evidence of their qualifications by providing a certified copy at first interview or providing the original for the interviewer(s) to sight and copy at first interview. For successful applicants, copies are maintained in personnel files. Where necessary, TAC will verify qualifications and details of the verification process will be stored in the employee’s personnel file. TAC’s recruitment processes ensure that staff are employed with the qualifications and experience required by the National Standards, AQF and relevant training packages. To this end, all educators (trainers and assessors) will hold a TAE 40110 Certificate IV in Workplace Training & Assessment (or current equivalent), hold the actual qualification they will deliver and have current industry knowledge. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 79 of 115 In some cases trainers may be hired initially without the TAE40110 qualification while they obtain such qualification and will be under the supervisor of a qualified trainer/assessor. A Trainer Direct Supervision Plan will be undertaken along with the completion of a Trainer Direct Supervision Meeting Record. Such supervised trainers will complete at least the Enterprise Trainer Skill Set or the complete TAE qualification. 4. Staff Induction All new staff completes TAC’s Staff Orientation Program which includes the following elements: Week 1 1 2 3 4 5 Introduction to the organisation, its mission, vision, values and strategic priorities. A review of the employee’s position description and clarification of expectations and key performance indicators. Introduction to the TAC team and departmental facilities. An introduction to the regulatory environment for vocational education and training including AQF requirements and responsibilities and other relevant legislation. College facilities including building facilities, general introduction to information and communications technology, and site safety (emergency procedures, etc.) Weeks 2 to 12 6 Workplace policies covering equal employment opportunity, bullying, harassment and discrimination, conditions of employment, performance development, disciplinary processes, workplace health and safety and other related policies. 7 Operational procedures relevant to the role. 8 Other specific requirements for the role e.g., particular software. The completion of the staff orientation program is monitored by the employee’s line manager who updates the Staff Induction Checklist to record progress. The program is required to be completed in accordance with the timetable developed upon commenced. During an employee’s first three months of employment, the line manager conducts a probationary review to monitor performance, provide feedback and ensure that induction training is progressing towards completion. 5. Performance Development As part of it overall continuous improvement system designed to improve its delivery of educational services, TAC has a program of continuing performance development for its staff which includes: 3 Professional Development days, for which attendance is compulsory, are designed to enhance or acquire skills required to maintain productivity and competency. 4 Annual performance reviews and annual performance planning, with quarterly progress meetings. The annual performance review identifies achievements and challenges faced by each employee over the previous year. Performance is measured against previously agreed performance targets and evidence of Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 80 of 115 performance is gathered from a number of sources including line manager feedback, student evaluation surveys, student retention figures and students results for trainers. The annual performance plan identifies and documents agreed performance targets and professional development needs for the coming year. A range of professional development activities are available to all staff and include attending training courses, professional reading, attending conferences or industry functions or mentoring. The annual performance plan is supported by a process of quarterly progress reviews for each employee. At these informal reviews, progress towards achieving performance targets and completion of professional development activities is discussed between employee and line manager. 5 A Professional Development Policy (contained in the Workplace Handbook) under which employees can apply for assistance with professional development activities. 6 A requirement for all educators to maintain currency with industry knowledge and technical expertise. Evidence of this is provided by each educator on an annual basis and stored in the personnel file. 7 The maintenance of a staff matrix for educators detailing all professional development activities. 8 All line managers are provided with training on performance development and are provided with ongoing support as required. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 15.3; 15.4 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 81 of 115 Student Code of Conduct Purpose The purpose of this policy is to advise students enrolled at MHM Australasia Pty Ltd trading as the Australasian College Broadway (TAC ) (National provider code: 6980) of TAC ’s Student Code of Conduct. Student Code of Conduct scope This Student Code applies to all students enrolled at TAC. A breach of the Student Code of Conduct may result in either suspension or cancellation of enrolment. The following appears in the student handbook. Student Code of Conduct Whilst I remain a student at TAC it is my responsibility to: Attend class regularly, punctually and advise TAC of any absences. Maintain study as per course timetable. Maintain attendance across the duration of the course. Wear TAC uniform and comply with TAC’s dress code. Comply with and assist in TAC’s emergency procedures. Conduct myself in a safe and healthy manner and behave in a manner which prevents injury and disease to myself, my trainer, models and fellow students. Identify and report to a trainer any possible hazards from equipment, facilities and the environment. Pay fees on or before the due date. Ensure non-discriminatory or harassing behaviour to other students, staff or visitors to the school. Report any discriminatory behaviour or harassment to a trainer. Register complaints, disputes or grievance with a trainer or other staff member. Refrain from smoking anywhere in TAC building or immediate vicinity (e.g. outside the building). Refrain from drinking and/or eating in the classrooms and salons. Refrain from unacceptable behaviour including the use of bad language. Refrain from taking or supplying any non-prescription drugs and/or alcohol. Refrain from the use of devices which may disrupt class’s e.g. mobile phones and pagers unless discussed with my trainer. Not to leave TAC without notifying my trainer. Comply with the assessment information and process. Abide by TAC Policies & Procedures outlined in the Student Handbook. Notify TAC in writing within 7 days of any change of address and contact details. Students not following the Student Code of Conduct will face disciplinary action which may result in suspending or cancelling the student’s enrolment. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 82 of 115 Student Enrolment 1. Policy This policy simply outlines the process by which we enrol students into the courses on the scope of registration. Applicant contacts TAC by telephone, fax, email, on-line or in person. College follows-up with phone call or email to applicant to identify needs. Applicant is invited in for a personal interview. Applicant is provided with the Course Information Brochure/s detailing information on TAC, fee structure and refund policy. (These are available on the website www.tac.edu.au). Applicant is advised of the Student Information Handbook (also available on the website). Applicant completes and signs enrolment form, which has required AVETMISS data collection questions. Applicant is enrolled as a student, given an identification number and a database record is established. Student attends an orientation prior to commencing the course. 2. Enrolment of students under 18 years Enrolment of students under 18 years of age require parent/guardian permission and the parent/guardian is required to attend the interview and we obtain the parent/guardian written permission for the prospective student to enrol understanding all the rights and responsibilities. 3. Fee payment Prospective students are advised of the course fee and any other fees associated with their enrolment. Payment terms are explained and a college wide Student Payment Plan is entered into if required. TAC abides by the requirements of NVR Standard 22.3 in regard to fees paid in advance. VET FEE-HELP is available for Diploma and above courses and all applicable information is provided. 4. AVETMISS data collection We collect from each enrolling student, all information required in the collection of full data via the Australian Vocational Education and Training Management Information Statistical Standard (AVETMISS). This data will be reported to the National VET Provider Collection. Our student management system EduPoint is fully compliant with all AVETMISS data collection requirements. 5. Once enrolled All students have an orientation program provided where all requirements, rights and obligations are explained with students signing a Declaration of Understanding and Student Acknowledgement at the conclusion of the orientation program. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 83 of 115 6. TRAINING GUARANTEE TAC guarantees that students commencing courses will have the course delivered as per the agreement entered into. If for some reason TAC is unable to fulfil this agreement, TAC will have the student transferred to another course or to another RTO to complete the course commenced. If not able to be placed in a suitable alternative course, a refund of the unused tuition fee remaining in the course will be offered. TAC is a financial member of ACPET and has coverage under the Australian Student Tuition Assistance Scheme (ASTAS). The ASTAS protects the student in the unlikely event that TAC cannot complete the course delivery. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16.3 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 84 of 115 Student Deferment 1. Scope The purpose of this policy is to acknowledge that at times a student may need to defer their commenced studies to a later time. This Policy and Procedure outlines the process for student and staff to take in such a situation. This policy and procedure relates only to students who have commenced their studies at TAC. If a student wishes to defer their actual start date, this is an administrative function of postponing the start date by the enrolment team and is not part of this policy and procedure. 2. Deferment defined A deferment is an approved leave of absence of a short duration from the study course due to exceptional and/or compassionate circumstances. A deferment that meets the circumstances as exceptional and/or compassionate may only be granted if the balance of fees owing are paid or a payment plan is put in place. Exceptional circumstance TAC needs to be satisfied that compassionate and/or exceptional circumstances apply for the deferral, so the student must be able to prove that the circumstances: were beyond their control; and did not make their full impact until after the commencement date; and made it impracticable to complete the unit(s) of study requirements at this time. Deferment requests must be based on exceptional and/or special circumstances and are considered on an individual case by case basis. All supporting documentation is to be provided with the written application for deferment request. An exceptional or special circumstance does not include when the student changes their mind, wanting to go to work, or other such reasoning. 3. Procedure Students considering deferring their studies at TAC are required to meet with the General Manager to discuss this decision and to be made aware of the consequences of such a decision. This meeting is arranged via the Student Concierge; preferred by email to [email protected] or via telephone - ext. 886 or 0499 888058. At this interview with the General Manager, if the student remains confident that deferment of their studies is the action required to be taken, then a formal request for deferment in writing using the Request for Study Deferment form (available from the General Manager, via download on intranet and/or provided in the forms rack at main reception). Supporting documentation must be included with the written notification. Post interview the General Manager will provide the relevant documentation to the Student Information Management Group (SIMG) for adjustment to the student information database and inform the Head of Faculty. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 85 of 115 Students may have a support person present at the scheduled meeting(s) and those students under the age of 18 years, require the parent or guardian to be present at any such meeting in regards to deferment. 1. 2. 3. 4. Procedural steps: All requests for deferment must be made in writing on appropriate form to the General Manager. General Manager discusses the proposed deferment with the student. General manager will make decision based on the individual exceptional circumstances. General Manager will provide Student Information Management Group (SIMG) with all relevant documentation and inform the head of Faculty of the deferment dates. Students will be notified within 7 business days in writing of the outcome of their request to defer their studies in a course or VET FEE-HELP unit of study. (This notification can be the completed Request for Study Deferment form). If the request for deferment is granted, an agreed date of recommencement of studies will be recorded in the student file and recorded on the Student Management database by the Student Information Management Group. 4. Recommencement of Studies 1. Students need to advise the College at least one (1) month prior to the recommencement date indicating their return or if the agreed recommencement date is required to be varied. (This does not mean a continued deferment). 2. In the event that no communication is received from the student one month prior to the recommencement date, a letter will be sent to the student seeking instructions as to their intentions to continue with their course/ unit(s) of study. 3. Failure to respond to the College’s request one month from the date of the subject letter referred to in item 2 above, will cause the students enrolment in the course or unit(s) of study to lapse. 4. In such a case, the student’s enrolment will be cancelled at the end of the relevant academic period. 5. If the student has passed a VET FEE-HELP census date, the student will be liable for the full fee prepayment. 6. Any future enrolment request following the lapsed outcome (including any request for VET FEE –HELP assistance), will be treated as a new enrolment application. 5. Records Documented process of the procedure is recorded on the Request for Study Deferment with the relevant sections completed by the student, General Manager and the SIMG. SIMG will ensure all student information is entered into the Student Management System (EduPoint) and that any paper based student file (i.e. notes written at interview) is filed appropriately. 6. Appeals As with any decision made by the RTO, the student has the right of appeal. This would necessitate the student accessing the Appeals process and part of TAC Grievance and Appeal Policy and Procedure. In this case the appeal will initially be heard by the CEO, being higher than the General Manager in the organisation. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16.1; 17.1; 20.1; 20.2; 22.2. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 86 of 115 Student Record Management 1. Scope Students’ records are confidential and available to the student on written request. Records of attendance, assessment outcomes and qualifications issued are kept accurate, up-to-date and secure. TAC is bound by a number of regulatory instruments relating to the collection, handling, storage and use of student data. We have processes in place that complies with the Privacy Amendment (Enhancing Privacy Protection) Act 2012 and other Acts as mentioned below. Registered Training Organisations (RTO) are required, by law, to collect personal student data relating to enrolments and qualifications for the purposes of ensuring compliance with regulatory instruments; and for reporting to the National Vocational Education and Training Regulator. Student information collected includes, but is not limited to, course enrolments, course results, personal information and information required for administrative purposes. All student data collected by TAC is for required purposes. TAC does not collect personal information unless that information is materially relevant to the qualification undertaken and is necessary for reporting purposes. TAC does not use or disclose collected personal information about an individual unless that information is materially relevant and necessary for the required purposes for which it is collected. TAC takes all reasonable steps required to ensure that all personal information collected for the primary purpose is accurate, complete and up-to-date. TAC takes all reasonable steps to protect the personal information it collects from misuse, loss, unauthorised access, modification or disclosure. TAC takes all reasonable steps to destroy or permanently de-identify personal information if it is no longer needed for the purposes for which it was collected. The Australasian College Broadway (TAC) keeps students’ results for 30 years to enable re-issue of original certificates and/or SoA. The Request for VET FEE-HELP Assistance form is a Commonwealth record, subject to the Archives Act 1983 which is required to be kept for seven years after the student has completed their course, however this does not include the student’s TFN. TAC will securely store, protect, and dispose of relevant information after the retention period. A written record of all grievances handled under the Grievance and Appeals policy and procedure and their outcomes shall be maintained for a period of two years to allow all parties to the grievance appropriate access to these records, upon written request to the CEO. These records will be maintained at Building 1, 87 Bay Street, Glebe, NSW 2037. TAC will keep all general information in the students file for two years and then will remove and securely dispose of this information. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 87 of 115 All student files are kept in a secure area with no student access within the Student Information Management Group (SIMG) lead by the Student Information Management Group Manager (SIMGM). MHM Australasia’s student records include: Student enrolments and fees and/or payment plans. Student identification (College ID number and/or Unique Student Identifier). Correspondence with the student. Testamur/Record of Results and/or Statement of Attainment copies. Student attendance details for each session detailing number of hours in attendance per day. Records of assessments that include records of formative and summative assessment of competencies and reports of all Recognition of Prior Learning assessments. TAC uses the EduPoint Student Management System (AVETMISS Compliant) to record all information regarding the student’s enrolment, contact details, interviews, results and attendance. These records are stored electronically and backed up off site yet within Australia. TAC provides no information to any off shore entity. All computers at MHM Australasia are password protected and all information is concurrently backed up off site in Australia on secure severs. Attendance. The trainer/assessor records the number of hours per day each student is in attendance and attendance details are entered and updated to the EduPoint data base. Students must contact TAC by telephone when they are ill and cannot attend and provide a medical certificate, for absences of two days or more, on return to college. 2. Guidelines for Archiving Student Files and Retrieval of Student Records An archive system for student files is maintained in a secured room. Access restricted to staff nominated by the CEO with no student access. Keys to the archive room are held by the SIMGM. Student files are presented to the SIMG for archiving. Student file numbers are recorded in the Archive Register. Paper based student records are maintained for two (2) years before being removed and securely disposed of after relevant information is kept for required longer periods. The Request for VET FEE-HELP Assistance form will be kept for 7 years from the course end date. Student Testamur/Record of Results and/or Statement of Attainment copy is maintained and kept by TAC for a period of 30 years from date recorded on the document. Request for information from archived student files must be made to the SIMGM. The file is accessed and pertinent information is retrieved as required. At this time the Archive Register is completed, detailing the reason for the access and by whom. The file is returned to the archive room with return date recorded on the Archive Register. Twice yearly the SIMGM will provide a list of the files with information to be removed and securely disposed of, leaving only information required to be kept for longer periods. This being VET FEE-HELP requirements kept for 7 years and the qualification/SoA copy for 30 years. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 88 of 115 3. Version Control All documents must contain the version number and month/year of issue. All documents pertaining to the operation of TAC training quality system shall include a version statement applied as document footer through word processing. Current documents for general use are available on the intranet. Currency of versions of documents will be maintained. Redundant versions of documents shall be archived. New versions shall be clearly marked with new version, which indicates that they are the latest version when comparing with other versions. New versions of documents can be initiated by the Manager Quality and Compliance. See Form Usage and Version Control Policy and Procedure for details. 4. Student Access to Records Students are entitled to have access to their academic record on written request. To facilitate this, students who request to access their records are to be provided with this access at the earliest opportunity. They may view their record in the presence of a representative from TAC. The student will need to provide photo identification prior to any access being granted. Students who wish to access or sight their computerised or paper record retained by TAC will be permitted to do so during office hours (9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday). Access will need to be arranged prior with the Head of Faculty and Student Information Management Group Manager. Records may not be removed from TAC. Students are permitted to take notes on information appearing on their record. The student file is not to be taken away from TAC premises. There is no charge for a student to access personal information however no photocopying or photography of any portion of the student file is permitted. The file remains the property of TAC and is to be retained to comply with regulatory requirements. In complying with the Australian Privacy Principle 13; if an individual identifies that there is error with the personal information being kept by TAC; a request to amend the information can be made. Corrections will be made within seven days from the error being identified and a notation will be made on the individuals file. There is no charge to correct an individual’s file. Written requests should be sent to: Student Information Management Manager MHM Australasia Pty Ltd 87 Bay Street GLEBE NSW 2037 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 89 of 115 5. Legislation Privacy Act 1988 Privacy Amendment (Enhancing Privacy Protection) Act 2012 Archives Act 1983 Tax File Number Guidelines 2011 These Acts regulates the manner in which we collect, handle, use, store and disclose personal information in relation to particular purposes. More information can be found at: www.privacy.gov.au 6. Re-issue of Testamurs, Record of Results or Statement of Attainment A copy of the achieved Testamur and Record of Results or Statement of Attainment is kept for a period no less than 30 years for re-issue if required. The request for re-issue is to be addressed to: Student Information Management Group Manager MHM Australasia Pty Ltd 87 Bay Street GLEBE NSW 2037 OR email to [email protected] The re-issue of the Testamur and Record of Results or Statement of Attainment will be the same document as per the original document and not the current Training Package qualification. The fee is $55.00 for the reissue of each such document. The student will need to provide photo identification prior to any re-issue being provided. This policy relates to: 16.2; 16.6; 17.1; 17.2; 17.3 18.1; 23.3; 24.4 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 90 of 115 Student Requests 1. Scope The scope of this policy is to ensure that TAC deals with student requests in an efficient and professional manner. All written student requests submitted will be dealt with by the appropriate staff member within 10 working days of TAC’s receipt of the request. 2. Requests Student request may be submitted in writing for the attention of the Student Concierge. This may be in person by appointment via Ext. 886 or 0499 888058. Students can also contact Student Concierge via email: [email protected] The written request, depending on the nature of the request, can be completed utilising current TAC documentation such as; Staff Appointment Form Request for Course Withdrawal Request to re-enrol Request for Centrelink Letter Student Change of Personal Details Form Improvement Request Form Request for Course Deferment Student request submitted on non TAC documentation must include contact details of student including; phone, email and postal address. Written request submitted by students that are minors must be co-signed by parent or guardian. Students can make an appointment to see any staff member via the Student Concierge or at main reception. 3. Action required by Head Of Faculty or Student Information Management Group Manager Upon receipt of written request from a student, Student Concierge is to acknowledge receipt of the request in person or via email or mail (if email address is not provided). When considering what action is required to respond to the student request and depending upon nature of request, Student Concierge if necessary will consult with other members of TAC staff and refer the request to particular staff members. 4. Response to Student Request When preparing a response to a student request, staff is to be mindful that all external correspondence must be signed by the CEO or General Manager and those responses must be received by the student within 10 working days from the request receipt. If part of TAC’s response to the student request requires a formal interview with the student, two staff members are to be present and all interviews with minors must be held in the presence of the minor’s parent or guardian. This policy is supplemental to those policies relating to student grievances and appeals, student record management, privacy and personal information policy and procedures, among others. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16.1; 16.2; 16.5; 17.1; Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 91 of 115 Student Selection 1. Policy scope This policy applies to all prospective students applying for entry into the College. TAC student selection process is conducted in an ethical manner. Prospective students are encouraged to apply for entry into TAC knowing that TAC is committed to providing education and training that is responsive to the individual needs of prospective students. 2. Student acceptance TAC only accepts domestic students and has no CRICOS approval for any qualification on scope of registration. Equal access is provided irrespective of age, gender, cultural or ethnic background, disability or sexuality. There is no minimum age for entry into a vocational education and training qualification, course or unit of competency for students, unless prescribed by the training package or job requirements. If a prospective student is under 18 and is permitted by law (for example: has been released from school and can provide a Record of School Achievement [RoSA]) to apply for entry into the College, the application must be approved and signed by the prospective student’s parent or legal guardian. If required we may also need a letter from the previous education provider for a letter stating that the student is no longer enrolled with them. 3. Student Interview Application for entry into TAC is achieved by interview with a course advisor. During the interview the prospective student is assessed on whether or not they are suitable for the course of study and have the appropriate level of language, literacy or numeracy level required for the course they are interested in. The prospective student is required to complete a College application form. The prospective student is required to complete the form including (yet not limited to) the following information: The highest level of education achieved If there are any medical conditions that may impact learning If there are any disabilities that may impact learning Their level of English language proficiency If the client requires advice on support services, including LL&N. During the interview the following (yet not limited to) will be provided: Course details including duration Training and assessment methods Fee structure and payment options and methods Process for recognising credit transfer and/or recognition of prior learning Terms and conditions Opportunity to have all questions answered. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 92 of 115 4. Reasonable Adjustment Provisions The information disclosed will be used to assist in assessing the prospective student’s ability to study the course. If it is identified that further assessment of the prospective student’s aptitude to study is needed, then an interview with the relevant Faculty Head will be arranged. Prospective students who have identified that they have Language, Literacy and Numeracy needs may be required to complete an assessment designed to establish a program or course options. This assessment is a LL&N aptitude tool which TAC can use to identify the most suitable training and assessment strategies needed. Where a prospective student is under the age of 18 years of age the Faculty Head may need to make an assessment on the prospective student’s ability to study by consulting both the prospective student and the parent/legal guardian. Alternative methods of training may be offered including but not limited to: verbal assessments, a variety of differing project work, extended time to complete assessments, and dedicated access to facilities and resources to assist the prospective students learning needs. If the Faculty Head deems that TAC cannot provide a reasonable adjustment, such as appropriate resources and facilities to accommodate the delivery of the training, the application will be declined, or advised of other possible opportunities. Where a prospective student is required to provide evidence of their highest education level, this must be either the original or a certified copy of the original documentation. All overseas qualifications are checked by the Student Information Management Group for equivalence with Australian Qualifications. This is done through the Australian Government’s, National Office of Overseas Recognition (NOOSR) www.aei.gov.au/noosr. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16; 17 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 93 of 115 Student Support Services 1. P o l i c y MHM Australasia Pty Ltd provides equal access to training and delivery services for all students and where possible, flexible training is provided to meet the specific need(s) of the individual students. The student enrolment form requires students to self-assess their English language capabilities and to indicate any special needs that they may have. Students may be required to complete a literacy screen test to further assess language support needs. This may be completed at enrolment or in the first four weeks of class attendance. 2. Student Concierge We have as the student main contact while at the College, a dedicated Student Concierge who students can contact for any query they have. To increase our understanding of their experience at the College, each student will have a personal interview with Student Concierge; approx. 2-3 weeks post orientation and again approx. half way through the student’s course. This is an opportunity for students to tell how they are dealing/coping with their study and College enjoyment. Student Concierge is available Mon-Fri 9am- 5 pm. Outside of these hours appointments are available on request. Student concierge is contactable on Ext. 886 or 0499 888058. Student Concierge may also be contacted via email at [email protected] 3. Academic Support Services Trainers are the first contact for students requesting academic support. If the trainer cannot provide requested support, trainers immediately notify the Head of Faculty to arrange appropriate support. Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LL&N) support will be provided in all subjects as part of the normal tuition and assessment activities. Applied English support that may be provided by the college is part of the normal tuition fee. TAC has on staff a LL&N specialist which trainers can call on for support in helping students in their studies or for help in determining appropriate level of LL&N in resource material. The learning support strategies used by trainers at TAC include: Pre-teaching technical terminology. Demonstrating procedures. Providing opportunities for ‘hands-on’ experience and practice. Ensuring individual support and advice to students. Literacy support to assist in the understanding of language specific to the industry. Encouraging students to work at their own pace. Where necessary inviting students to record training session on an audiotape. Providing written learning material and illustrations to reinforce the learning. Applying the principles of reasonable adjustment to training and assessment. Students with learning difficulties beyond our area of expertise are referred to external specialist agencies. TAC will not charge for such referral however the agency may charge the student on a fee-per-service basis. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 94 of 115 All staff are responsible for: 1. Recognising the cultural diversity of all students. 2. Ensuring equal treatment of all students. 3. Encouraging full participation and assist all students to achieve course outcomes. 4. Providing equal access to resources. 5. Referring students with any settlement and/or specific learning problems to the Faculty Head for advice or referral to external specialist agencies. 4. Orientation TAC supports all students to adjust to study at TAC, to achieve their learning goals and to achieve satisfactory progress towards their learning goals and to achieve satisfactory progress towards meeting the learning outcomes of the course. TAC provides information at orientation regarding the opportunity for students to participate in services or provides services designed to assist students in meeting course requirements. TAC provides the opportunity for students to access welfare related support services to assist with issues that may arise during their study, including course progress requirements and general welfare issues. These servicesare provided at no additional cost to the student. If TAC refers a student to external support services, TAC will not charge for a referral. TAC has a documented Critical Incident Policy together with procedures that covers the action to be taken in the event of a critical incident, required follow up to the incident and records of the incident and action taken. TAC has all staff as first point of contact for students, who will assist in whatever way possible and refer to others for more specialist help, including external help. Therefore TAC has sufficient staff personnel to meet the needs of the students enrolled in TAC. Staff are made aware of such services with information communicated to staff through inclusion in staff meetings, professional development days and through the policies in this policies and procedures manual. Further help is available at the college if the student (or staff) is having concerns with their mental health. EachHead of Faculty have training in Mental Health First Aid. 5. Student Counselling It is important that students have access to a range of support mechanisms during their study. If students require assistance or counselling related to study or personal difficulties, they should speak initially with their trainer for referral to appropriate support. TAC can suggest access to specialised support for those who may need such help. All discussions regarding this are in the strictest of confidence. In the event that a student may disclose or inform TAC that they are currently being abused we are obliged bylaw to notify DOCS (Department of Community Services). It is an MHM Australasia Pty Ltd policy to inform all guardians and parents of any concerns, grievances or disciplinary action relating to students under the age of 18. TAC can refer to a service (or students can access themselves) such as: Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 95 of 115 Sydney Counselling Service, www.sydneycounselling.com.au Salvation Army Counselling Service 02 97432831 Lifeline 13 1114 Local Medical Centres Broadway General Practice: Shop M105, Level 1, Broadway Shopping Centre 02 8245 1500 www.broadwaygeneralpractice.com.au Sydney University Health Service: Wentworth Building Cnr City Road and Butlin Ave 02 93513484 www.unihelth.usyd.edu.au Glebe Medical Centre, 53 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe 2037,02 8070 6888, www.glebemedicalcentre.com.au Hospitals Royal Prince Alfred Hospital: Missenden Road Camperdown. 02 95156111 St Vincents Hospital: 390 Victoria Road, Darlinghurst. (Emergency Dept.) 02 95156111 Nearest Police Station to TAC Glebe Police Station -1-3 Talfourd Street GLEBE 2037 02 9552 8099 Can search by postcode for the nearest police station at this web or use the link: http://www.police.nsw.gov.au/aboutus/structure/operationscommand/localareacommands Emergency Number– Fire, Ambulance, Police: 000 Emergency translation service: 1300 655010 Transcultural Mental Health Service: (Free call 1800 648911) or 02 98403767 (Monday to Friday) 6. List of External Counselling Services and Assistance Concern Website Telephone Alcoholism www.aa.org.au 9387 7788 Anxiety (including phobias Compulsive Disorder) & Obsessive- www.ada.mentalhealth.asn.au Consumer credit and debt www.cclcnsw.org.au/ Crime stoppers (report crime anonymously) 9879 5351 1 800 808 488 1 800 333 000 Crisis counselling (Wesley Mission) www.lifelinesydney.org/ 13 11 14 Depression http://www.beyondblue.org.au/ 1 300 224 636 Domestic violence 1 800 656 463 Drug addiction: Narcotics Anonymous www.na.org.au 1 300 652 820 Drugs and mental health www.thewaysidechapel.com 9358 6577 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 96 of 115 Eating disorders www.edf.org.au/ G-Line (gambling) 9412 4499 1 800 633 635 Gay & lesbian counseling line www.glccs.org.au/ 8564 9596 Grief support www.solace.org.au/ 9519 2820 HIV/AIDS www.sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au/ 9332 9700 Telephone Interpreter Service 13 14 50 Legal information and advice www.lawaccess.nsw.gov.au/ 1 300 888 529 Mental health advice www.mentalhealth.asn.au/ 9816 5688 Poison Information Centre 13 11 26 Pregnancy counseling www.pregnancysupport.com.au/ 1 300 737 732 Rape Crisis Centre www.nswrapecrisis.com.au/ 1 800 424 017 Relationship counseling www.interrelate.org.au/ 9745 5544 Smoking - Quitline Suicide Prevention Victims of crime support 13 18 48 www.suicideprevention.com.au/ 1 300 360 980 9374 3000 This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16; 17 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 97 of 115 Student Withdrawal 1. Scope This policy and procedure indicates that TAC understands that at times, circumstances may exist that requires a student to withdraw from their course of study. This Policy and Procedure outlines the process for student and staff to take in such a situation. 2. Procedure Students considering withdrawing from a course at TAC are required to complete a Request for Course Withdrawal Form (available at the forms rack at main reception or via Student Concierge). The form is to be provided to Student Concierge and it is suggested and recommended that the student meet with the General Manager to discuss this decision and to be made aware of the consequences (including financial) of such a decision. Each student’s circumstances are considered on an individual case by case basis and notes from the meeting are documented on the Request for Course Withdrawal form and then the electronic student file. If the student is under the age of 18 years, the parent/guardian must be present at this and any subsequent meeting. The General Manager will inform head of Faculty and relevant personal regarding the student withdrawal and students will be notified within (7) business days in writing that the withdrawal has been processed. 3. TAC property TAC student identification cards, kits and or inclusions along with their transport concession cards are to be returned to the College at the time that the notification to withdraw is lodged. No action for withdrawal will be taken by TAC until the student has submitted written notification and returned all TAC property. Academic transcripts will be withheld until a payment arrangement has been finalised. Students are advised to consult TAC Refund Policy & Procedure which states no refunds will be made after the course census date unless TAC defaults in the delivery of the course or in the case of exceptional circumstances. 4. VET FEE-HELP Enabled Course If the student withdraws from the unit of study after the census date, the student is still liable to pay the tuition fees of that unit of study, thus incurring the full VET FEE-HELP debt if entered into, regardless of whether they had attended any classes or handed in any assessment items. If an upfront payment was made, the student is not eligible for a refund of that payment. 5. Special circumstances If the VET FEE-HELP assisted student withdraws from a unit of study after the census date, due to special circumstances, the student can apply to have the VET FEE-HELP balance re-credited and the HELP debt removed (or upfront payment refunded). There are no provisions under the Higher Education Support Act 2003 to have any debt removed for any completed unit of study. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 98 of 115 TAC needs to be satisfied that special circumstances apply for the re-credit to be actioned, so the student must be able to prove that the circumstances: were beyond their control; and did not make their full impact until on or after the census date; and made it impracticable to complete the unit(s) of study requirements. If the withdrawal is due to change of mind or such situation, the student will still be required to repay their VET FEE-HELP debt. Note: The application for special circumstances must be made to TAC within 12 months of the withdrawal day. More information about this process and appeal procedures is available from the CSP and HELP Handbook for 2014 at www.studyassist.gov.au. Students in a VET FEE-HELP enabled course are requested to consult TAC Refund Policy and Procedure and the Re-crediting a VET FEE-HELP Balance Policy and Procedure for detailed information. 6. Non VET FEE-HELP Enabled Course Students withdrawing from Non VET FEE_HELP enabled courses are advised to consult TAC Refund Policy and Procedure in regard to financial obligations. 7. Not attending without notification Where a student is not attending the course without notification, they are deemed as Not Attending without notice. The student’s enrolment will be cancelled at the end of the relevant academic period. A refund or Recredit of VET FEE-HELP debt will not apply. 8. Records General Manager will advise the Head of Faculty of the withdrawal request outcome and the Student Information Management Group will ensure all student information is entered into the Student Management System (EduPoint) and that any paper based student file is provided in total to the for appropriate processing. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16.1; 17.1; 20.1; 20.2; 22.2. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 99 of 115 Students Workplace Integrated Learning 1. Scope The objective of this policy is to provide a framework to support Work Integrated Learning (WIL) experiences within accredited vocational education and training courses delivered by MHM Australia Pty Ltd, trading as The Australasian College Broadway (hereafter referred to as TAC). The intent of this policy is to ensure that graduates of a course of study are work and industry ready. The focus of this policy is to assist trainers, supervisors and students to apply learnt and developing knowledge, skills and capabilities for effective practice through real-world work experiences. The notion of work integrated learning is more commonly thought of as work experience and this terminology is synonymous with work integrated learning. 2. Work-Ready Graduates TAC prepares work-ready graduates by providing students with real work learning experiences as we believe it is important for the student to experience the ‘real world’ where they soon will practice within. Real world learning integrates theory, knowledge and skills of a discipline with professional and contemporary practice; all of which is appropriate to the student’s current skill level. In providing such graduates to industry, TAC sees work integrated learning as one aspect of their commitment to real world learning. Work Integrated Learning (WIL) connects students with industry and their community, through their course of study to objectively and incrementally measure the development and integration of core practice capabilities, skills and knowledge that employers and the wider community expect of a graduate of TAC. There is no competency assessment undertaken in the work experience site. 3. Definitions and Provisions TAC defines Work Integrated Learning as a supervised educational activity that aims to integrate theoretical learning with its application in a workplace context. This may be a simulated environment within TAC or out in industry at work experience sites, chosen by TAC for their ability to advance the students learning. Work Integrated Learning includes the following characteristics: An organised work experience in a specific industry, organisation or professional workplace. Situated in a real-world commercial workplace. Provide access to clients for real time treatment application. Availability of instant feedback from industry professionals. A work experience site involves the student in a professional industry milieu with access to working professionals and involves work relevant interactions. In general, WIL experiences and activities must include clear learning outcomes, structured support to achieve them, critical reflection, feedback on progress, measures of achievement, and clear expectations of the roles of all parties involved. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 100 of 115 4. Educational objectives Work experience aims to: 1. Optimise student learning through the provision of supervised learning experiences that aim to integrate and consolidate theory with practice. 2. Maximise personal and professional development through fostering opportunities for self-analysis and reflection. 3. Instil a culture of accountability and responsibility to ensure the highest level of client care is provided. 4. Promote safety, harm minimisation, and respect in the management of clients. 5. Information to Students about WIL Activities and Responsibilities Information about Work Integrated Learning (WIL) activities is provided to students prior to their involvement in that activity. Such information must be linked to the course requirements and provide details about expectations on the students undertaking a WIL activity. Student responsibilities when undertaking a WIL experience: Behave in a manner appropriate to that of an ‘employee’ upholding the reputation of TAC Punctuality throughout the duration of the WIL activity Adherence to the professional ethics and codes of conduct appropriate to the WIL activity and the experience site area Adherence to policies and procedures of the host organisation, including workplace health and safety, and equal opportunity Maintain communication with the WIL supervisor as required Raise issues of concern with the WIL supervisor and Head of Faculty Complete all reasonable requests within the students training and experience Advise the Head of Faculty of any issues that may impact on their capacity to undertake and/or complete the WIL placement, such as a disability or personal difficulty Maintain the confidentiality of the host organisation and any information gained while undertaking the WIL experience Promptly advise of (and prior to) any absence to the WIL supervisor and Head of Faculty Complete evaluation and feedback forms and submit them by their due by dates Maintain logbooks and records as required. 6. Information to Host Organisations about WIL Activities and Responsibilities Information about Work Integrated Learning (WIL) activities is provided to external organisations that agree to host a student for work experience. Topics that must be included in distributed information to workplaces include: a brief description of the purpose/aims of the WIL activity; information regarding supervision expectations; insurance coverage of students; emergency/accident/grievance/withdrawal procedures; a list of the host organisation’s responsibilities. Host organisation responsibilities include: Nominating and supporting a WIL supervisor to be responsible for the student during the WIL activity Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 101 of 115 Advising the student of Workplace Health & Safety requirements and the provision of a safe workplace where the student is able to practice their skills Informing the student about the host organisation’s Equal Opportunity and other related policies such as Sexual Harassment, Anti-Discrimination, etc. Informing employees of the presence of the student, the reasons and purpose of the placement Contacting the Head of Faculty in the case of an accident, problem or misunderstanding Facilitating visits by TAC training staff if required Supervising the student and monitoring performance Helping the student to apply skills to the workplace setting Participating in student evaluations/feedback (as required). 7. Insurance TAC holds insurance coverage for all students and staff while off the Colleges site underwritten by QBE Insurance Australia, Policy AQEB06650 PLB for Public & Product Liability with current Certificate of Currency available if required. 8. Site Procurement All potential work experience sites will be required to have a pre placement site audit for suitability of purpose. TAC trainer/assessor if not the Head of Faculty will assess the site using the Workplace Site Suitability Checklist document. On rare occasions this may be completed by the host site. A decision on utilising the work place will be made after this site audit for suitability and agreed by both the site representatives and the College. All work experience site supervisors will be provided with the ‘Information for Work Experience Supervisors’ handbook which outlines the responsibility of the work place and the college for the student’s successful work experience. 9. Site induction and Orientation Work experience sites accepting a student for work experience have a right to expect that the student will come to them suitably prepared for the experience – but assumptions should never be made. A Best Practice introduction to the work environment will confirm this ‘general preparedness’ as well as deliver specifics about the site. TAC would like to suggest a full orientation/induction to the site and specific site requirements. Orientation should encompass yet not limited to: Familiarisation with the site, amenities, equipment and reporting structure. The people with whom the student will interact during the placement. Coaching support that will be available to them and clarifying ‘expectations’ – not just what is expected of students, but what they can expect in return. Helping the students understand the workplace and introduces the culture and values of the site. What they should be doing and how to do it specific to the sites requirements. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 102 of 115 Policy and procedure information regarding: Code of Conduct. Bullying and Harassment. Use of Information Technology. Use of Illicit Drugs and Alcohol. Privacy and Confidentiality. Customers Rights. Duty of Care. Mandatory Reporting. However, it’s important to remember that a student at the beginning of a work experience placement is in ‘information overload’. Best Practice will take the time to ensure the student understands the written documents provided at orientation and appropriate for the duration of time that the student will be at the site. 10. Supervision in the vocational work experience In obtaining a Best Practice vocational work experience, the student will experience both direct and indirect focused supervision at different times during their experience as they perform specific tasks. However, it is also relevant to note that the student will require other forms of supervision – such as managerial supervision of their induction, orientation, rostering and supervision of their overall activities to ensure they meet all the practical requirements of their training course. In achieving this goal, the work experience site will designate an appropriate staff member to act as a supervisor and mentor for the student who will: help the student meet the learning objectives of their work experience work with them to identify learning opportunities relevant to their training program provide instruction before and during tasks use constructive feedback during and after tasks serve as a resource by sharing knowledge while demonstrating skills acting as a role model to convey Best Practice. The supervisor therefore needs to be a skilled practitioner – appropriate to the level of the training program – and needs specific personal qualities to be able to fulfil the role successfully, such as good communication skills and appropriate feedback techniques. 11. Site Visits As much as possible prior to the work experience, TAC representative will visit the site to speak with relevant site personal regarding the program and the conditions for the student work experience, via the use of the Work Experience Provider Suitability checklist. This is the time to raise any concerns with the representative and to organise the actual dates and details of the program to ensure success. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 103 of 115 12. Fair Work Act Students and employers alike need to be aware of the provisions introduced by the Fair Work Act 2009. Under this Act, stipulations have been made as to the type of workplace experiences that are allowed. These legislative provisions aim to combat exploitation of workers and there may be repercussions for employers not abiding by these laws. Under the Fair Work Act 2009, a vocational work experience placement is a working arrangement where the following apply: the student is not paid a wage it is a requirement of an Australian based education or training course it is authorised under a law or administrative arrangement of the Commonwealth, a State or Territory. All TAC students in a work experience site are at the site for unpaid work experience. A person in an arrangement that meets all of these above criteria is not covered by the Fair Work Act and is not entitled to the minimum wages and other entitlements provided in the National Employment Standards and any applicable modern awards or agreement. Note: Just because someone isn’t covered by the Fair Work Act does not mean that they are not covered by other legislation, such as workers compensation laws, workplace health and safety, discrimination and other relevant laws. 13. Excursion/Community Events Approval While not a work experience situation, faculties are encouraged to take students into the broader ‘workplace’ for a specific function, such as a photo-shoot for make-up students, manicure and pedicare services, hairdressing in a nursing home situation or an excursion for a specific opportunity to broaden the student learning and experience. Such an event must be authorised by the CEO with staff completing an Excursion/Community Event Approval document which clearly outlines the details of the requested off site experience. For the actual event the Excursion and Off Campus Industry Experience Log Sheet is completed detailing the students name and contact number, with trainers signing ‘in and out’ each student and the site details. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 15.1; 16.4 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 104 of 115 Students Under 18 years 14. Policy Education has an important role to support young people and to identify where problems arise that may put their safety, welfare or wellbeing at risk. All staff at TAC has a responsibility to report risk of harm concerns about young people, within their roles, and to provide support to these young people. TAC recognises that care and protection for those less than 18 years is a shared responsibility. It begins with parents, yet while at TAC, they are our responsibility. Employees of TAC who may have unsupervised contact with a student who is under 18 years of age are required to have a completed Working with Children Check on file. Enrolment of students under 18 years of age require parent/guardian permission and are welcomed to attend the interview and we obtain their written permission for the prospective student to enrol understanding all their rights and responsibilities. 15. NSW Education Act 1990 The NSW Education Act 1990 was amended in 2009. Essentially, it now requires young people to remain at school until they complete Year 10 or reach 17 years of age, whichever occurs first. Furthermore we undertake to conform to the requirements of section 21B of the NSW Education Act 1990 in ensuring the student has the required documentation from the school if the student is less than the minimum school age being: (a) the age at which the child completes Year 10 of secondary education (subject to participation required by subsection (3)), or (b) the age of 17 years; whichever first occurs. Such prospective students are required to provide their Record of School Achievement (RoSA) prior to commencement as evidence they have completed Year 10. Applicants under the age of 17 are also required to provide MHM Australasia Pty Ltd with an Exemption from School notice. Applicants that cannot produce these documents or are under the age of 15 are unable to be enrolled in qualifications delivered by MHM Australasia Pty Ltd. 16. Commission for Children and Young People Act 1998 Under the Commission for Children and Young People Act 1998 it is mandatory for any person working in, or seeking to work in child-related employment, to declare that they are not a prohibited person (ie that they are not a person who has been convicted of a serious sex offence or child-related personal violence offence or a registered person under the Child Protection (Offenders Registration) Act 2000) before commencing work with children. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 105 of 115 While it is rare that any staff member of MHM Australasia would be in a situation with a person under 18 years by themselves, it is required that staff with unsupervised direct contact with under 18 year olds are required to have the Working with Children Check completed. 17. Absence notification Trainers are to note absence from class of all students on the class roll. In the case of those less than 18 years, at the first break the trainer will notify the Head of Faculty and Faculty administration will contact the parent/guardian of those students less than 18 years to advise of the absence. The Parent/Guardian Register on the intranet will be completed by the person contacting the parent/guardian. In the first instance a telephone call is to be made. If no answer and if no message bank allotted to that telephone number, an email will be sent. The object of this is twofold: to advise of the students absence and to have the parent/guardian take responsibility to investigate the reason why the student was not in attendance. If there is continual absence from class, the Head of Faculty is to complete the Non-Attendance Letter for Parent/Guardian and send, which will be recorded in the Outgoing Correspondence Log. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 16.1;16.2;16.5;17.1;17.4;18;20.1;20.2 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 106 of 115 Training and Assessment Strategy 1. Training and Assessment Strategy construction TAC will develop and implement strategies for training delivery and assessment for each qualification on its scope of registration. Each training and assessment strategy (TAS) will be required to identify the proposed target groups, training and assessment modes and strategies, the assessment validation processes to be utilised and the pathways available for further training options and work outcomes. The TAS will be developed in consultation with relevant enterprises and industries. TAC will review, compare and evaluate its current assessment processes, tools and evidence that are contributing to judgments by way of moderation and validation meetings. TAC will document any action taken to improve the quality and consistency of the assessment and the relevant assessment tools. TAC will ensure that whilst developing, adapting or delivering training and or assessment products and services: All methods used to identify training needs, and methods for designing training and assessment materials are fully documented. The requirements of the relevant National Training Package or accredited course curriculum are met. Steps are taken to manage the transition to reviewed Training Packages within 6 months of their publication. Core and elective units, as appropriate, are identified. Customisation meets the requirements specified in the relevant Training Package. Language, literacy and numeracy requirements develop the training capacity of the individual and are consistent with the essential requirements for workplace performance specified in the relevant units of competency or outcomes of accredited courses. Delivery modes and training and assessment materials which meet the needs of students. TAC will ensure that it has access to the staff, facilities, equipment, training and assessment materials required to provide the training and/or assessment services within its scope of registration and scale of operations, to accommodate client numbers, client needs, delivery methods and assessment. The Head of Faculty will prepare the Training and Assessment Strategy for each qualification on TAC wide template. It is the responsibility of each faculty to ensure all information is correct to the training package requirements and that sufficient industry consultation has taken place in the strategy construct. The completed qualification training and assessment strategy is then provided to the Quality & Compliance Manager who will ensure quality is maintained and proof reading corrects any errors in grammar and spelling. Once compliance has signed off on the document, it will be placed in secure version controlled documentation. Each TAS will be reviewed at least annually. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 107 of 115 2. Course Management Plans A further context to the effective delivery and assessment of courses is found in the Course Management Plan for each qualification. These plans provide a framework and specify per session of each day and each week the requirements needed for effective delivery/assessment. Each plan has the following section: G Course overview G Qualification timetable G Plant and equipment G Learning outcomes, Assessment and Learning Materials G Consumables G Workforce requirements G Summary per unit G Cost summary Course Management Plans are held electronically by the Head of Faculty. 3. Quality Training and Assessment – Trainers MHM Australasia Pty Ltd recruits staff that is competent in their field to support the Colleges core function to train/assess students. All staff must read the policies and procedures and documents relating to the effective performance of their roles and responsibilities. All staff and contractor recruitment is conducted in accordance with equal opportunity and nondiscriminatory practices which relate to recruitment, interviewing and selection. Identification of required staff is approved by CEO and a selection criterion is designed. All staff employed by TAC is required to enter into a written employment agreement, the form of which is determined by the CEO, and changed from time to time as required. All staff participates in a formal induction process conducted by an employee approved by the CEO. All employment arrangements are negotiated on an individual basis and remain confidential between the CEO and the candidate/employee. From July 1st 2013, all trainers are required to hold a full Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE 40110 or current equivalent) plus relevant vocational competencies at least to the level of training and assessment being delivered. All training staff are required to maintain currency in industry and continue developing competencies in both vocational and training and assessment competencies as required by NVR Standard 15. Staff are encouraged to identify their training needs and to negotiate arrangements for addressing these needs, both in developing their vocational currency and their VET knowledge and skills. TAC provides professional development days for all staff throughout the year and staff are encouraged also to obtain external professional development opportunities such as Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 108 of 115 team teaching and assessing participating in training opportunities networking with other training providers subscribing to trade magazines attending industry conferences liaising with the Industries Skills Council appropriate to qualifications delivered. Records of staff induction, performance interviews and professional development will be maintained in the staff member personal file. 4. Training and Assessment Materials Training materials are selected for accuracy and relevance to Training Package, accessible language and ease of use. Where possible the Learner Guides and Assessment material provided by the Skills Council will be purchased and used. Where there are no adequate training materials available, the faculty team is required to design and write their own training materials, aligned to the qualification and training package guidelines and requirements. The training materials are implemented only after approval by the CEO and are monitored through the internal audit process, industry stakeholder meetings and any other evidence available. 5. Guidelines for the Design/Selection of Training Materials Training materials are selected for accuracy and relevance to Training Package, accessible language and ease of use. Where possible the Learner Guides and Assessment material provided by the Skills Council will be purchased and used. Where there are no adequate training materials available, the faculty team is required to design and write their own training materials. All materials must be mapped to each unit and element, including the range of variables from the relevant training package. All material is validated against the Validation of Purchased Material checklist for suitability. The training materials are implemented only after approval by the CEO and are monitored through the internal audit process, industry stakeholder meetings and any other evidence available. 6. Guidelines for the Design of Assessment Tools Assessment tools are developed against course/qualification requirements Practical and Underpinning Knowledge assessment tools are designed against competency standards, assessment criteria and critical aspects of evidence from the relevant training package by the Faculty team. Assessment materials are documented on College wide templates, including marking and mapping guides. When approved by the CEO it is then prepared for use including development of assessment activity resource lists for practical assessment. Assessment tools undergo scrutiny by assessors including industry stakeholder meetings prior to implementation. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 109 of 115 Once any required amendments are made the assessment tools are added to assessment folder with clear reference to unit(s) of competency. All assessors discuss the use of the tool/s at the next Faculty meeting prior to implementation. Tools re-evaluated after implementation through internal audit process and any other anecdotal evidence available. 7. Premises TAC uses facilities, equipment and training and assessment materials that provide training and/or assessment services to accommodate its student numbers, student needs, delivery methods and assessment requirements. MHM Australasia Pty Ltd has undergone extensive remodelling and renovation to maintain facilities and provide equipment which meets the current and emerging needs of the industries it serves along with current requirements of the training industry. All facilities provide more than adequate space and ample state of the art equipment to enhance students’ training and meet the needs of industry. Faculties maintain an equipment register to record ongoing maintenance requirements. Both Beauty and hairdressing Facilities have been approved under the RightWay program from Service Industry Skills Council. The use of current training material includes student workbooks and texts, high trainer to student ratio to ensure students receive the training required with attention paid to each student progress. Additionally the practical components are undertaken in state of the art facilities in simulated work environment with cohort practice and then service treatments on real models who book in for services. All theory classrooms are progressively being fitted with individual student laptop computers. 8. Support Departments TAC has invested heavily in technological support and has committed to continue this in the development of an electronic operating environment for its operational management processes and to enhance training and assessment delivery. A robust financial team operates to ensure that the financial management of the college remains viable and compliant to the Financial Viability requirements of the VET quality Framework. This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 15 - 17 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 110 of 115 Transition to Training Packages 1. Policy At The Australasian College Broadway (TAC) we acknowledge our obligation to remain informed of changes to training packages and to establish transition arrangements for existing students and those students who may be enrolled during a transition period. Our obligation is underpinned by the Standards for NVR Registered Training Organisations , the ASQA General Direction: Transition and teach-out, dated March 2012 1 and the revised General Direction of January 2014, requiring RTOs to manage their scope of registration to transition from: superseded Training Packages within 12 months of their publication on the national register so that they only deliver currently endorsed Training Packages and currently accredited courses. The requirement is also stipulated in further detail within the National VET Regulator Business Rules for Transition and Teach-out. 1 2. Background Like all things in the national training system, nationally endorsed training packages are amended from time to time under a continuous improvement approach to ensuring that training packages are aligned with industry requirements. In addition to these smaller changes, training packages can be entirely reviewed on a cyclic basis and this often leads to new versions being issued or new training packages being developed and released. New training packages must be endorsed by the National Skills Standard Council. Following their endorsement, they are published and released using the National Register (training.gov.au). It is usually the date of release that marks the date for subsequent transition arrangements which are covered in this policy. In 2003, the National Training Quality Council (now the National Skills Standards Council) determined the guidelines for providers to transition to new training packages when other training packages are superseded. The council determined that where a training package has been reviewed, the new qualifications should be in place within six months and no later than 12 months to allow new enrolments to take advantage of the new qualification. TAC considers this six month timeframe a suitable benchmark for our operation and compliance. 1 ASQA General Direction — Transition and teach-out, March 2012; revised January 2014. 3. Aim The aim of this policy is to ensure TAC is delivering the most current qualification outcome to students and to actively manage TAC scope of registration. This policy is applicable to training package amendments, version changes and newly endorsed training packages and/or any accredited course TAC may have on the Scope of Registration. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 111 of 115 The same process is followed for both training packages and accredited course that TAC has on scope of registration. While only the training package is used below, it equally applies to and includes accredited course(s) At this time TAC has no accredited courses on its scope of registration. 4. Transition arrangements TAC is to apply the following policy: The monitoring of training package status and responding to changes in training packages is to be managed through the Senior Management Team to ensure transition to revised or new training package is management in a systematic way that integrates changes into all other areas of TAC operation. Head of Quality and Compliance has email alerts set with www.training.gov.au for notification of changes to the training package and qualifications on scope. Heads of Faculties also are to have these alerts activated. TAC will transition in response to training package changes within six months from the date of release on the National Register or the transition date as advised by the National VET Regulator. TAC will complete all transition activity within 12 months of this same date. Faculty will develop all delivery and assessment documentation for the new requirements of the qualification(s) for audit to have the changes made for application to ASQA for inclusion on Scope of Registration. TAC must apply to have new Training Package qualifications, units of competency added to its scope of registration by submitting an application to change RTO scope of registration to the National VET Regulator via ASQANet, accompanied by the required fee. Enrolments in new qualifications or units of competence are to commence as soon as possible to allow students to access the most current qualification and to minimise the period that students enrolled in superseded qualifications are being managed. Students who are enrolled in qualifications which are superseded part way through a training program are to be offered and encouraged to transfer their enrolment to the new qualification once it is obtained on TAC scope of registration. Students are not to be disadvantaged in anyway and student’s choosing to remain enrolled in superseded qualifications are to be supported in their decision. Revised or new qualifications / units of competence are to be included on TAC scope of registration as soon as possible. 5. Teach out arrangements1 Students who are enrolled in qualifications which are superseded part way through a training program are to be offered and encouraged to transfer their enrolment to the new qualification once it is obtained on TAC scope of registration. Students who choose not to transition to a new qualification are to be ‘taught out’ to the conclusion of their qualifications. To support this arrangement, the following business rules are to apply: 1 ASQA General Direction—Transition and teach-out, March 2012; revised January 2014. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 112 of 115 Superseded Training Package Qualifications. All continuing students will be transferred to the new training package once on scope of registration (within the 12 month transition period) however TAC may continue to deliver training and assessment services, and issue awards, to current students of the superseded qualification who would be genuinely disadvantaged if required to transfer to the replacement qualification for up to 18 months after the publication of the replacement qualification on the National Register. Students who have not completed the superseded qualification during this timeframe must be transferred to the new qualification. During the teach-out period, TAC must not enrol students and/or commence delivery in the superseded qualification. Students who would not be disadvantaged by transferring to the new qualification must be transitioned within 12 months, preferably within 6 months, of the date of release of the qualification. Deleted Training Packages. TAC may continue to deliver training and assessment services, and issue awards, to current students of the deleted qualification for up to 18 months after the date the Training Package which indicates that the qualification was deleted is published on the National Register. Students who have not completed the deleted qualification during this timeframe must be transferred to the new qualification. During the teach-out period, TAC must not enrol students and/or commence delivery in the deleted qualification. Superseded Units of Competence. TAC may continue to deliver training and assessment services, and issue awards, to current students of the superseded unit on the scope of registration who would be genuinely disadvantaged if required to transfer to the replacement unit for up to 18 months after the publication of the replacement unit on the national register. Students who have not completed the superseded unit during this timeframe must be transferred to the new unit. During the teach-out period, TAC must not enrol students and/or commence delivery in the superseded unit. 6. Student disadvantage It is the genuine intent of TAC not to disadvantage any student. In determining if a student is being disadvantaged, the following criteria are provided by the National VET Regulator to characterise what constitutes disadvantage: Requirement to undertake additional units of competency Extension to the enrolment period Fundamental change in the structure or content of the qualification or course Additional financial expense Significant change in training venue or delivery mode Change to their training contract terms Outcome of the new/revised qualification or course is not recognised by an industry licensing/regulatory body. TAC is to consider these criteria when engaging with students and assisting them in choosing the best option for their individual circumstances. The decision to use the provisions of this student disadvantage criteria is only to be taken by the Chief Executive Officer. Detailed records of the evidence presented by the student and/or the consideration of circumstances are to be retained in order to demonstrate why exceptional Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 113 of 115 circumstances apply. This evidence should demonstrate that a genuine disadvantage existed to enrol a student into a new training product within the required timeframes. 7. Transition Management The transition to new training packages is to be managed through the Senior Management Team to ensure the transition is management in a systematic way that integrates changes into all other areas of TAC operation. It is critically important that high attention to detail is applied by staff who is leading this work. The following steps are to be applied: Monitor the status of training packages. The Quality & Compliance Manager is to monitor the status of training packages to remain aware of changes in the revised training package and how these might affect TAC scope of registration. Changes to training packages are to be reported to the Continuous Improvement Committee (CIC) and the Senior Management Team. The primary information source for monitoring the status of training packages is the National Register (training.gov.au). Determine an action plan. Once changes are confirmed, the CIC is to determine an action plan to respond to changes. While the CIC meet quarterly, they may meet as required within this period. The CIC is to provide advice about the actions to be taken and appoint a person (generally the appropriate Head of Faculty) to lead the work to analyse the amendments that have occurred in the revise training packages and develop an action plan to address all necessary changes. Attention to detail must be given to minor changes that may occur to unit codes and titles to ensure these are not missed during the transition process. The common changes may include: Revised unit of competence and the qualification codes and titles; Revised packaging rules for qualifications changing the requirements in relation to the allocation of core or elective units; Revised units of competence, this may include the combining of two units of competence into one or minor changes where the unit of competence has remained equivalent; Revised pre-requisites, co-requisites or entry requirements; and Revised assessment guidelines which may relate to identifying new requirements relating to trainers and assesses. Whilst not an exhaustive list, the common changes identified above are certainly the most commonly seen in the transition of training packages. TAC staff are to be alert to these changes and pay close attention to detail to ensure our training and assessment remains current and it satisfies training package requirements. Review Training and Assessment Strategies. Head of Faculty is to review the existing training and assessment strategy to determine the higher level changes that have occurred to a qualification and the likely changes that are required. In most cases the Head of Faculty will need to draft a new Training and Assessment Strategy to accommodate changes, along with changes as required to the Course Management Plan. This may include additional consultation with industry to gauge their reaction to training packages changes, to identify new preferred electives and to determine if there are specific industry requirements that need to be incorporated. Attention to detail must be given to minor changes. Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 114 of 115 Revise training and assessment materials. The Head of Faculty will also undertake an analysis of the current training and assessment resources to identify relevant changes that are required to ensure training package requirements are being met. Once these have been identified, implement arrangements to have training and assessment materials revised and validated. While it is the Head of Faculty that undertakes most of the work in the transitioning of new qualification(s) or Training Packages, this work is in consultation with the Quality & Compliance Manager. Quality Assurance. When the Head of Faculty is satisfied all revisions are complete to the new requirements, all documentation in final draft form is supplied to Quality & Compliance Manager who undertakes a quality assured audit of the documentation. Once this is completed the final documentation relating to all aspects of the new requirements are provided to the CEO for final clearance for use. This may be in regard to a new application to the NVR to add the new qualification on scope of registration or if added to scope by the Regulator. At this time brochures and related material are prepared for upload to the website and to the Sales and Marketing team for distribution once on scope of registration. Head of Faculty in undertaking the review process will have communicated with the faculty trainers/assessors who must be aware of all requirements and the documentation associated with delivery and assessment. Keep students/staff informed. The Head of Faculty will take steps to inform existing students and RTO staff of the changes to the applicable qualification. Before engaging with students, Heads of Faculty ensure that the options that students will have available to them have been fully considered. Information provided to students ensures that they fully understand their options and feel supported in any decision they may take. Students are not to be disadvantaged because of the transition to a new training package. All RTO staff must be informed of changes as to how if effects their operational workflow (i.e. sales, marketing, enrolment, student record management). This policy relates to NVR Standard(s): 25 Policy and Procedure Manual • V1.13 June 2014 • Page 115 of 115
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