Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is available to enrolled nurses who are seeking to gain a formal qualification or certification. RPL is a process that recognizes the skills and knowledge that enrolled nurses have already acquired through their work experience, training, and other activities, and assesses whether this prior learning is equivalent to the requirements of a formal qualification.
To apply for RPL as an enrolled nurse, candidates will need to provide evidence of their prior learning, such as qualifications, work experience, training records, and references. The evidence provided will be assessed against the learning outcomes of the qualification being sought.
The qualifications that may be recognized through RPL for enrolled nurses include:
- Diploma of Nursing (Enrolled/Division 2 Nursing)
- Advanced Diploma of Nursing
The amount of credit that can be awarded through the RPL process will depend on the individual’s prior learning and experience. However, RPL can potentially shorten the time required to gain a formal qualification, and can also lead to higher-level qualifications.
It’s important to note that the RPL process may differ between countries and jurisdictions. Therefore, enrolled nurses seeking to apply for RPL should check the requirements and processes of their local regulatory bodies or training providers. In Australia, for example, RPL is managed by various Registered Training Organizations (RTOs) and assessment is done against the National Competency Standards for Enrolled Nurses.
