What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) refers to the process of assessing the knowledge/skills an individual has gained outside the Coach Education Framework (e.g., from their studies, work, or other life experiences). If an individual can successfully demonstrate that they meet the required competencies of an athletics coach, Australian Athletics will formally recognise these skills by awarding the relevant coaching accreditation.
There are no specific criteria required to qualify for RPL. Instead, applicants must review the required competencies for each coaching accreditation to identify the accreditation level that aligns with their prior experience. To review the required competencies of AA’s coaching accreditations, please visit the Coach Accreditation Framework.
If an applicant believes they meet the required competencies for a particular accreditation, they are encouraged to apply for RPL, allowing them to gain formal recognition for their coaching abilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

- RPL is only available to coaches who believe they already meet the expected competencies for a specific accreditation (i.e. RPL is an assessment, not a learning opportunity). To review the required competencies of AA’s coaching accreditations, please visit the Coach Accreditation Framework.
- Applicants must meet the age requirements for the relevant coaching accreditation.
- Applicants must have a current and valid Working with Children Check (or a valid exemption – as per the State/Territory regulations). Applicants are responsible for adding their WWCC details to their Athletics Australia account.
- Applicants must acknowledge that they understand and agree to the following:
  - Member Obligations
  - Privacy Policy Declaration
  - Cancellation/Refund Policy
  - Code of Conduct
  - National Integrity Framework policies
  - Coach Accreditation Policy
- RPLs have a set fee of $105.
- This fee covers your first year of membership with your State / Territory Athletics Association as well as administration and assessment fees.
  Please note: a coach who previously held an accreditation with Australian Athletics is not eligible for 12 months free membership with their State or Territory Association and will be required to pay the full membership fees.
- RPL fees are non-refundable and need to be paid before commencing the assessment.
The process for an RPL is as follows:
1. Applicant reviews the required competencies for AA's coaching accreditations and select the accreditation that aligns with their previous experience.
2. Apply for the appropriate RPL via the links below.
3. Complete the relevant online modules and assessment task(s) on the Athletics Learning Centre.
4. An assessor will review your submissions and you will be notified of you results via email. If your assessments are approved, the relevant accreditation will be assigned to your account. If your assessments are rejected, you can submit a second attempt.
- RPL is available for all coaching accreditations except the Level 4 High Performance Coach accreditation.