Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School strives to keep the information included in this Student Handbook up to date including the links it provides to a number of external websites.
Materials published do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School nor do we guarantee the accuracy, reliability or currency of the information.
The book is reviewed at regular intervals as part of our Organisation’s continuous improvement process and version control. Any errors in the information that are brought to our attention will be corrected as soon as possible but monitoring and reviewing content of these third-party external websites is not the responsibility of Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School.
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School accepts no liability for any loss or damage a person suffers because that person has directly or indirectly relied on any information included within this book.
Introduction
This Student handbook is worth reading, it tells you what is expected from you and what you can expect from us.
We hope that your training with Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School will be enjoyable and productive. Please let us know if you experience any difficulties during your course, so that we can take action to assist you. Our aim is for you to achieve high levels of competency and we will assist you flexibly and fairly to achieve your goals.
As a Registered Training Organisation, we are constantly striving to improve our training delivery to deliver the best outcomes possible for our students. We welcome any suggestions for improvement that you may have.
If you have any questions after reading this material, which are not answered within the following pages, please feel free to contact us.
Sanction
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School is committed to high standards in the provision of education and training in the area of Road Transport, with reference to Licencing.
The policies set out in this student handbook (code of practice) underpin the operation of our organisation and describe the minimum standards of the delivery of our courses
We recognize that our registration as a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) may be withdrawn if we do not honour our obligations as an RTO.
Important information for NSW HVCBA Truck licencing students.
As a student commencing the NSW RMS Heavy Vehicle Licencing process, you have 2 options through which you can complete this training and assessment process. These options are detailed below. After you have read and understood both option processes, please choose which option is suitable for you by ticking the relevant option box. Both Options will result in you achieving a NSW RMS Heavy Vehicle Licence. In both options, the NSW RMS Dual Assessment Procedure which includes recording the practical assessment will occur.
Option A: Non – Accredited NSW RMS Licencing
Training and assessment will be delivered in accordance with the NSW RMS Licencing process through competency-based training and assessment. At the conclusion of the process, the successful applicant will be given a NSW RMS Certificate of Competency which, when presented to the RMS NSW, will result in the student being issued with their truck Licence. The student will not be issued with a Statement of Attainment (SOA).
OPTION B: Nationally Accredited Licencing
Training and assessment will be delivered in accordance with the NSW RMS Licencing process through competency based training and assessment, but additional assessment evidence will be collected in the assessment process. This will address the Australian Skills Quality Authority’s criteria, enabling a Statement of Attainment to be issued by Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School to the successful student at the completion of their training and assessment. At the conclusion of the process, the successful applicant will also be given a NSW RMS Certificate of Competency which, when presented to the RMS NSW, will result in the student being issued with their truck Licence.
The Nationally Accredited Statement of Attainment certificate is only required if the student applies to another Registered Training Organisation to have the unit of competency as stated on their SOA certificate used as a credit transfer towards another national qualification e.g. Certificate III in Driving Operations.
Consent to record in-cabin video.
It is mandatory that a video camera is used in the cabin of vehicles to capture the on-road components of the FCA/CT as per the HVCBA Accreditation Agreement between Transport for NSW and Registered Training Organisations. This surveillance will be conducted in accordance with the Surveillance Devices Act, Workplace Surveillance Act and Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act. Do you provide consent for this assessment to be recorded?
I consent or I do not consent for my Final Competency Assessment to be recorded on video.
By signing this form, I agree that I have read and understood the relevant outcomes of the training and assessment option A OR B plus the in-cabin requirement that I have chosen to participate in heavy vehicle licencing.
Quality
Quality Management Focus
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School has a commitment to providing a quality service with a focus on continuous improvement. We value feedback from students, employers, and industry representatives as it as an important factor in monitoring and improving our training delivery and our business processes.
We use several strategies to collect student and employer feedback at the beginning, during and at the end of the course including tailor made feedback forms, targeted response surveys and also social media, such as Facebook and Google.
We use this feedback together with information from our complaints and appeals register and validation sessions together with internal and external audit reports to develop and improve our services.
As we are a reasonably small RTO, in some instances feedback is actioned with immediate effect, where management sees the adjustment is a logical one. Other improvements may be implemented over a period.
Industry Consultation
We consult on an almost daily basis with employers to ensure that the training we deliver is not training for training’s sake but that it is industry relative and effective with the needs of employers, who may want to train their staff but cannot afford the downtime.
Marketing and Advertising
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School markets training products with integrity, accuracy and professionalism, avoiding vague and ambiguous statements. In the provision of information, no false or misleading comparisons are drawn with any other Training Providers. Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School marketing strategies will not contravene legislation.
The names of training packages, qualifications and/or accredited courses listed in advertising material will comply with name/title, as endorsed by the National Registration and Accreditation Program.
Student Overview
Courses Delivered at Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School.
We currently deliver heavy vehicle licencing NSW and we can cover all gearbox code endorsements i.e. automatic, synchromesh and non-synchromesh (road ranger / crash) gearboxes.
NSW Light Rigid to Multi Combination Classes
In NSW, we train and assess you against the requirements of a unit of competency from the TLI training package. We are permitted to do this as we hold a service agreement with Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) to deliver heavy vehicle licence training.
Competency standards
Competency standards are:-
• Determined by Industry
• Used for the assessment of new or existing employees
• Packaged together to form qualifications.
• Each unit of competency or qualification is given a ‘level’. This is done through the Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) from a Cert I right through to Diplomas & Degrees.
Nationally Recognised Units of Competency
TLI Training Package
Competency Type of Vehicle Licence Class
TLILIC2014 Licence to drive a light rigid vehicle LR
TLILIC2015 Licence to drive a medium rigid vehicle MR
TLILIC2016 Licence to drive a heavy rigid vehicle HR
TLILIC3017 Licence to drive a heavy combination vehicle HC
TLILIC3018 Licence to drive a multi-combination vehicle MC
What qualification will I have after completing a single unit of competency?
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School is an approved supplier of RMS Heavy Vehicle Competency Based Assessment (HVCBA). Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School please note that no statement of attainment is issued as a result of the RMS Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School the results of the assessment are reported directly to RMS to enable you to upgrade your licence on presentation of yourself at a Services NSW office. Alternatively you may choose to only complete 1 unit of competency such as a Licence to Drive unit this requires a different approach to your training & assessment with the final assessment (FCA) being conducted the same as the HVCBA assessment you will be awarded a Statement of Attainment, plus any necessary Government paperwork needed to obtain your heavy vehicle licence. Please be aware there is different pricing available for a unit of competency.
What is competency-based training?
‘Competency’ is a statement about the skills, knowledge and attitudes a learner needs to have and demonstrate to complete a task (or job) safely, effectively and repeatedly. These statements are contained in each unit of competency. Each unit of competency is often made up of several elements.
The assessment of your competency means that you must be able to show, tell and apply knowledge evidence and practical skills, which match and meet those laid down by the industry body in the unit of competency i.e. a national set of standards.
The emphasis in competency-based training is on “performing” rather than just “knowing”.
In a nutshell, a competency is defined in terms of what a person is required to do (performance), under what conditions it is to be done (conditions) and how well it is to be done (standards).
REMEMBER: You are being assessed from the moment that you enrol and throughout your training. Your record of training (workbook / logbook) should be maintained when undergoing training at this facility.
Australian Qualifications Framework
The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is the national policy for qualifications in the Australian education and training system. Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School complies with the AQF as a condition of its registration.
The AQF recognises Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School as an ‘authorised issuing organisation’, able to issue AQF qualifications and statements of attainment to students that have satisfied the relevant competency requirements.
The VET Quality Framework
The VET quality framework and the Standards for Registered Training Organisations form the framework of how an RTO’s Governance and operations need to run.
The VET Quality Framework is made up of the: –
• Current Standards for Registered Training Organisations (2015),
• the Australian Qualifications Framework
• the Fit and Proper Person Requirements,
• the Data Provision Requirements
• the Financial Viability Risk Assessment Requirements
As part of the above Framework, Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School is subject to rigorous audit by several Government Departments including The Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA).
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School is bound by the rules and regulations of the Standards for Registered Training Organisations to maintain its’ Registered Training Organisation status allowing for the delivery of nationally accredited training, assessment and qualifications.
Your training pathway
No two students will arrive at Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School with the same workplace and driving experience. Competency based training allows for this. As you progress through your training course you will be given credits for the knowledge that you present and the skills which you perform well, and we will focus only in areas where you have problems.
In simple terms, competency-based training is almost the opposite of a driving test i.e. doing it once to pass an exam.
Under competency-based assessment you are assessed under a wider range of workplace conditions, but the assessment is far more flexible than a “test” which is a simple pass or fail situation. For any competency to be signed off you must demonstrate it without any errors.
During your practical training, The Assessor will use a progress sheet or logbook to record each competency as you complete them. After each training session is completed your assessor will ‘sign off’ each successful competency in your Workbook / Logbook and then you will only need to concentrate on completing any outstanding competencies.
Your workbooks / assessments will be retained by Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School as a record of your training and assessment.
Recognised Current Competency (RCC) & Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)
What is the difference between RCC and RPL?
Recognised Current Competency (RCC)
Recognition of Current Competence (RCC) involves being re-assessed against a qualification already held, to make sure that competence is current in relation to current industry standards as practice may have changed (for example new legislation, technology or new media). In this case no extra skill or competencies are recognised.
Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)
RPL involves the assessment of the previously unrecognised skills and knowledge an individual has achieved outside the formal education and training system. RPL is an assessment process (rather than a training process) that assesses the individual’s non-formal and informal learning. This assessment determines the extent to which that individual has achieved the required learning outcomes, competency outcomes or standards for entry to and/or partial or total completion of a qualification. Sufficient evidence must be collected (and retained) demonstrating that a student is competent against all the assessment criteria in a unit of competency.
a) formal learning refers to learning that takes place through a structured program of instruction and
is linked to the attainment of an AQF qualification or statement of attainment (for example, a certificate, diploma or university degree);
b) non-formal learning refers to learning that takes place through a structured program of instruction,
but does not lead to the attainment of an AQF qualification or statement of attainment (for example, in-house professional development programs conducted by a business); and
c) informal learning refers to learning that results through experience of work-related, social, family,
hobby or leisure activities (for example the acquisition of interpersonal skills developed through several years as a sales representative).
It is worth remembering that it is not whether you believe you can fulfill the elements of competency to the criteria set down in the training package but that you can prove by demonstration and evidence that you do – that is important.
RPL and RCC and our Courses
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School advises all applicants of RCC and RPL opportunities and procedures at the time of booking.
Our ability to offer this pathway to students undertaking a truck licence is controlled by the Licencing Regulators. There may be pathways open to returning existing drivers and overseas drivers (i.e. previously held a heavy vehicle licence before) therefore requests for RCC and RPL are dealt with on a student by student basis. We do not offer a pure RPL pathway (assessment only) to a person obtaining a heavy vehicle licence for the first time, given the high-risk nature of the activity.
RPL Procedure
• Request application form
• Complete application
• Return application form with supporting evidence
• Application is assessed within 10 days.
• Applicant is promptly advised of Recognised Prior Learning outcome and advised of the pathway through to further “gap” training or assessment.
Credit transfer
Credit transfer is an administrative process that formally recognises any competencies gained from other courses you have previously undertaken. As part of the enrolment process, any existing qualifications you hold will be checked to see if any of the units of competence you completed previously as part of that particular course are included in the qualification you are about to enrol into. Any satisfactorily completed units of competency that can be credited towards the qualification in which you intend to enrol, will be recorded as a credit transfer and you will not have to undertake any further training and assessment for this particular unit of competency. The units must be identical or equivalent of those you are enrolling in. If you already hold a unit of competence but want to sit in the classroom presentation to refresh your own knowledge that is acceptable but it will not affect the outcome of the unit in anyway as you have previously been assessed as competent and the results from other RTO’s must be upheld in line with the current NVR Standards for RTO’s.
Entry Requirements
There are no specific entry requirements for this course. As a RTO we do not accept trainees under 18 years of age, as a student will need to of held a car licence for at a minimum of 12 months to obtain any heavy vehicle licence.
Tenure
Before any heavy vehicle driving licence can be issued, the licencing regulators will confirm that “tenure” (in simple terms, all the requirements) have been met, enabling the Regulators to issue a licence. For example, existing licence is current and legal (not expired), person has the necessary driving history to permit the higher class of licence to be issued, learner’s questions, are completed medical requirements met (if any). Everything aligns = tenure met = licence issued.
In NSW, the tenure period must be met before the student can commence training in the higher class of licence.
Medicals
A person may have a medical condition but if they only have a car licence, they may not need to hold a medical certificate for this condition in regard to their licence. However, with a commercial licence i.e. a heavy vehicle licence, that same medical condition now requires them to have a medical certificate. Generally, the higher the class of Licence a person wants to obtain, the stricter the medical requirements.
A person needs a medical certificate to cover them for the class they will be driving before they start their lessons (to make sure we are all covered by insurance).
If someone presents with a “M” on their Licence, there will be paperwork behind it. Students will need to provide paperwork to show they are covered for the class of Licence they are applying for (not the class they currently hold).
Eye Tests
In the NSW Licencing system, eye tests are compulsory.
If your licence has a “S” endorsement on it for spectacles, then you must where your glasses when driving.
Mutual recognition
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School recognises the assessment decisions of and Statements of Attainment and Qualifications issued by another RTO.
Statements of Attainment issued by us as a RTO should also be recognised by mutually recognised by another RTO if you are undertaking another qualification in the future.
Student Services
Course times
Training times are between 6 am and 5.30 pm 7 days per week.
Courses normally commence at 6 am, however we are very flexible with our training times as we work in very small numbers for theory sessions and a one on one basis for all practical training. We can also come on site to suit the needs of an employer.
Course Selection
Please call 1800 00 CORE(2673) and we will run through an eligibility & booking with you to make sure the training chosen is suitable or email us at infor@coredrivingschool.com.au.
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School take no responsibility in relation to acceptance or non-acceptance into a training course, or the time lines required to complete when the circumstances are outside of our control, such as extreme weather conditions, trainer sickness etc. However, wherever possible will try and find a solution to these sorts of issues and make other arrangements that fit with the needs of the students
Eligibility for a truck licence is based on a “tenure” process, which including holding a licence for a pre-requisite time to be eligible for the higher class of licence, learner questions, medical requirements and driving history.
Wherever possible we will organise training and assessment to the benefit of the student.
Where a booking is made with us and subsequently cancelled, we will retain your paperwork for a period of 2 months, should you wish to re-book. After this your paperwork will be archived and you will need to make a fresh application to undertake a course with Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School.
Training pathways
Refer to the website www.coredrivingschool.com.au for the possible vocational pathways.
How do I book?
Booking is initiated by you contacting Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School. We will supply you with a detailed breakdown of the training pathways available to you including RPL opportunities and prices, availability, funding options (if any relevant), licencing fees and a booking form plus any other relevant documentation. We can provisionally hold dates for you in our diary. This normally done by email but can also be mail or in person. The booking procedure will include links to the student handbook, privacy statement, USI requirements, and any other documentation which may be relevant. This will enable the student to make an informed decision about their training provider.
Access and equity
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School endorses the national equity strategy by incorporation the principles of equity into all programs. All the staff at Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School has been instructed in their responsibilities with regards to Access and Equity principles.
Clients have equitable access to all programs irrespective of their gender, culture, linguistic background, race, location, socio-economic background or disability.
Admission procedures will therefore be free of discrimination, and if an individual does not meet entry requirements, all attempts are made to assist them to identify alternative courses of action.
Confirmation of your course
The course confirmation document outlines:
• Course Code Name and the unit of competency number
• Dates of the course
• Location of the course
• Expected duration of the course
• Expected modes of delivery i.e face to face, our facility or on site.
• Cost of the course (including any deposit required)
• Details of the assessment
• Link to pre-course reading material
• The student’s obligations including any requirements that Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School requires the student to meet to enter and successfully complete their chosen course
• The educational and support services available to the student
• Cancellations
Third Party Agreements / Partnerships
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School currently has no third party (Partnership) agreements in place for the delivery of any of its training and assessment at the time this version of the Handbook was published.
Where there are any changes to agreed services, Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School will advise the student as soon as practicable, including in relation to any new third party arrangements or a change in ownership of the business.
Welfare and Guidance (student support)
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School recognises that sometimes students may have problems that do not directly concern the employer or us as the training provider. However, these problems may impact upon the training and assessment process and the student’s ability to achieve competency.
All clients of Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School are treated as individual and are offered advice and support services which assist clients in achieving their identified outcomes relevant to the training products.
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School does not offer formal welfare or guidance services but every effort will be made to assist clients to access appropriate support agencies.
Where necessary, students requiring Literacy and/or Numeracy support will be directed to external relevant qualified experts. Any fees incurred are the responsibility of the student.
Language, literacy and numeracy
As the industries we offer training in involve many safety issues, students must be able to speak and understand English to undertake any of our courses. Assessments are conducted in English
To test literacy & numeracy, students may be given an industry-appropriate test.
Students with learning difficulties in literacy or numeracy are given reasonable assistance from Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School staff, such as additional time in assessments.
Students with English as a second language are given assistance such as being able to provide oral responses to some assessments and also, they are given additional time in theory examinations
In some instances, it may be possible for the written assessment to be conducted orally where there is a language or literacy issue.
If it is deemed that a student could possibly require more Literacy and/or Numeracy support, the student may be directed to a Specialist Language & Literacy provider. Any fees incurred are the responsibility of the student.
Staff members and Instructors are required to observe, identify and immediately act when a student has problems with language, literacy, or numeracy.
Foundation Skills
Foundation skills are those core or essential skills we need to engage successfully in work and life. The term ‘Foundation Skills’ is currently used to include the core skills defined in the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF) as well as the employability skills identified by employers as critical for effective performance in the workplace.
The core skills of the ACSF include
• reading,
• writing,
• oral communication,
• numeracy and
• learning.
Core Skills for Work (CSFW)
‘Employability skills’ now come under a new framework called Core Skills for Work (CfW) and incorporate skills such as problem solving, teamwork and digital literacy.
Although foundation skills are viewed as those that underpin vocational learning and skills development, they should not be interpreted as only low-level or single-level skills. There is a growing recognition that foundation skills range from quite basic, entry-level skills to very specialised or high-level skills. People are constantly challenged when trying to understand new forms of communication and information as they take on different roles throughout their personal and working life.
Enrolment, induction and orientation
Enrolments into the course are done at the commencement of the course, it is imperative that you arrive at the nominated start time.
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School conducts an enrolment, induction and orientation program for all its clients including: –
• Venue safety and facility arrangements.
• Relevant legislative requirements
• Review of the training and assessment program and flexible learning and assessment.
• Recognition arrangements
• Language, Literacy and Numeracy support.
• Client support and welfare
• Appeals, complaints and grievance procedures.
• Disciplinary procedures
Flexible learning and assessment
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School is committed to providing flexible delivery and assessment to meet the needs of individual students.
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School caters for differences in learning styles by using a variety of delivery and assessment methods such as demonstration, role play, observation, problem solving, guidance, mentoring and coaching as well as assistance to train in a workplace environment.
Reasonable adjustment
Reasonable adjustment can be made to the way in which evidence of student performance can be collected. Whilst reasonable adjustments can be made in terms of the way in which evidence of performance is gathered, the evidence criteria for making competent / not yet competent decisions (and / or awarding grades) should not be altered in any way. That is, the standards expected should be the same irrespective of the group and / or individual being assessed; otherwise comparability of standards will be compromised.
Fees & charges
For details of fees and charges please call us and we will give you prices over the telephone, confirmed in an email enquiry template and once a course is booked, and a course confirmed.
Fee Structure
The advertised enrolment fee represents the total cost to the student for tuition fees, materials fees and all other costs associated with delivering the training and assessment services and awarding the units of competency.
It does not include Government Fees for booking or licencing applications, students are notified of these charges in a course confirmation document.
Once a course is booked, the fee to be paid is written in the course confirmation document, together with any details of Government booking fees and funding arrangements.
This document outlines: –
• Total amount of fees payable and any other charges i.e. theory questions, booking fees etc.
• Payment terms (also found on the invoice)
• Fees for additional services such as replacement paperwork and additional training days if required.
• Link to student refund policy on website 24/7
Payment Terms, Cancellation and Refund Policy for Training Courses
A full copy of our Payment Terms and Cancellation Policy can be viewed on our request or we can send you a copy on request. The document outlines: –
• Payment terms,
• Cancellation and refund policy
• Payment methods and terms
• Payment arrangements for employers
• Re-assessment fees
• Nature of a guarantee to finalise training
Additional requirements surrounding the issuance of NSW heavy vehicle Licences can be viewed on our Website 24/7 or we can send you a copy on request.
Training and Assessment
Our Trainers & Assessors
Trainers and Assessors employed Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School have significant industry experience in addition to the vocational training and assessment qualifications. This allows them to provide a professional, well rounded learning environment for participants. Trainers are equipped with the skills to ensure their training methods are suitable for all participants, utilising simple industry language where appropriate to communicate information most effectively.
The Trainers and Assessors are backed up by an efficient and knowledgeable administration team to ensure that your course is run in a well-organised way.
We do not have any third party arrangements (partnerships) in place with any other RTO’s to deliver training courses on our behalf. However, from time to time we may pay a trainer /assessor as a contractor for any work undertaken.
Fit and Proper Persons
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School has a hiring process to ensure that it’s Director, high managerial staff together with its Trainers and Assessors are ethical, trustworthy and meet the fit and proper person requirements necessary to operate a RTO with integrity. This includes abiding by Codes of Conduct and Legislation for conducting its business activities.
A range of inductions are conducted for new staff. Licence and Authority expiry dates are monitored and renewed in a timely manner. Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School engages in a range of professional development activities for its trainers and assessors. All records are maintained in a suite of excel control registers.
How is training delivered?
We deliver our training in several different ways:-
• Face to face classroom training
• Onsite training – work-based training (under our supervision or in collaboration with your employer)
• A combination of the above
Training and assessment standards
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School has personnel with appropriate qualifications and experience to deliver the training and facilitate the assessment relevant to the training products offered. Assessment will meet the National Assessment Principles. Credit transfers, recognised prior learning and recognised current competencies will all be acknowledged within your training pathways, as permitted by the Regulators.
Adequate training materials and physical resources are utilized to ensure the learning outcomes of the training product can be achieved. Appeals procedures are in place for students who are not satisfied with assessment or training. All assessments processed are undertaken using the Principles of Assessment. Students are advised on assessment requirements before training commences.
Training
Theory sessions for the heavy vehicles can be run in a small classroom session (1-4 people) or on a one on one basis.
Practical training for the heavy vehicles is done on a one on one basis.
We have 6 vehicles in the fleet, 3 trailers and we cover all gearbox codes i.e. automatic, synchromesh and non-synchromesh.
Logbooks
For NSW heavy vehicle licencing, RMS NSW utilise a logbook for recording practical training and assessment hours. The assessment hours are mandated (compulsory) for each class of licence and a student is not permitted to record an hour in a logbook until the driver knowledge test (DKT) has been completed. The competencies completed by a student are entered into the RMS Licencing database after every training session, as required by the regulator.
Assessment Policy
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School acknowledges the critical role that assessment plays in determining the competency of students. Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School recognises that each unit of competency contains requirements relating to; performance evidence, knowledge evidence and assessment conditions.
In developing the assessment tool (including RPL or gap training) for each unit of competence, the CEO will ensure:
• Compliance with the assessment guidelines from the relevant training package, qualification and unit of competence
• Assessment leads to a statement of attainment under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF)
Assessment complies with the principles of competency-based assessment and informs the student of the purpose and context of the assessment
• The application of knowledge and skills is relevant to the standard expected in the workplace, including skills for managing work tasks, contingencies and the job environment
• Timely and appropriate feedback is given to students
• Assessment complies with Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School’s access and equity policy
• All students have access to re-assessment on appeal
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School implements an assessment system that ensures that assessment (including Recognition of Prior Learning) complies with the assessment requirements of the relevant training package.
Assessment Criteria
The objective is for the student to show that they have achieved the unit’s competencies, i.e. have acquired the underpinning knowledge and can demonstrate the practical skills needed.
In the heavy vehicle licencing NSW Licencing system this includes a short Final Competency Assessment (FCA) conducted by ourselves but auditable without notice by an Inspector from RMS.
Students should remember that, with competency-based training and assessment they are being assessed from the moment they are with a trainer or assessor not just during the ‘test’.
Assessment Methods
Students may also be assessed by one or more of the following methods:
• Observation The completion of a specified task or set of procedures, normally performed under close supervision, using a detailed checklist i.e. pre-departure
• Oral Questioning A response is provided by a series of questions presented in order to demonstrate understanding of principles or reasoning behind the action taken.
• Case Study An opportunity to display problem solving and decision-making skills is provided in simulated context.
• Written Short Answer A written response item consisting of a question/s with answers of a single word, a few words, a sentence, or a paragraph.
• Project An exercise or investigation based on a real-life situation, generally requiring a significant part of the work being carried out without supervision and involving the completion of a project report. However, this is not an assessment method that we use very often at Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School
• Or any other method outlined in the course information.
Principles of assessment
The Four Principles of Assessment state that assessments must be: –
• Valid
An assessment is valid if the assessment methods and materials reflect the elements, performance criteria and critical aspects of evidence in the evidence guide of the unit(s) of competency, and if the assessment outcome is fully supported by the evidence gathered.
• Reliable
Refer to the degree of consistency and accuracy of the assessment outcomes. That is, the extent to which the assessment will provide similar outcomes for candidates with equal competence at different times or places, regardless of the assessor conducting the assessment.
• Flexible
Flexibility refers to the opportunity for a candidate to negotiate certain aspects of their assessment (for example, timing) with their assessor
• Fair
The assessment does not advantage or disadvantage particular learners or groups of learners.
Assessors must ensure that assessment decisions involve the evaluation of sufficient evidence to enable a judgment to be made on the competence of the candidate. The Principles of Assessment are applied during any assessments undertaken by Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School.
Rules of Evidence
These are closely related to the principles of assessment and provide guidance on the collection of evidence to ensure that it is:
• Valid
Assessment is valid when the process is sound and assesses what it claims to assess. Validity requires that:
• Sufficient
Sufficiency relates to the quality and quantity of evidence assessed. It requires collection of enough appropriate evidence to ensure that all aspects of competency have been satisfied and that competency can be demonstrated repeatedly over time. Supplementary sources of evidence may be necessary. The specific evidence requirements of each unit of competency provide advice on sufficiency.
• Authentic
To accept evidence as authentic, an assessor must be assured that the evidence presented for assessment is the student’s own work.
• Current
In assessment, currency relates to the age of the evidence presented by a student to demonstrate that they are still competent. Competency requires demonstration of current performance, so the evidence collected must be from either the present or the very recent past.
Assessment expiry dates
If a student achieves a satisfactory result for theory part of their assessment and for some reason has to postpone the practical assessment, the theory / calculation result will stay valid for 6 months providing there has been no other influencing factor such as a legislative change etc.
However, an Assessor does have the authority to ask selected questions to either confirm that a student has retained the knowledge.
If more than 6 months elapse, the student must complete a whole new assessment.
Issue of certification
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School will facilitate students with the issuance of a heavy vehicle licence if a truck licencing course is undertaken.
In most instances a Statement of Attainment will be issued promptly at the end of the course (providing course fees have been paid) as this fits with our administration process. However, legally an RTO does have up to 30 days on successful completion of the program to issue a Statement of Attainment. It may be necessary to do this if a course has been delivered on site for you.
Certification issued will meet the requirements of the training package/product and legislation and the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
For NSW Licences, RMS also require students to submit a Certificate of Competency document for the purposes of issuing a licence. This will be issued at the same time as your Statement of Attainment (if you have chosen this selection).
Students will be advised of their heavy vehicle Licence issuance procedure as they achieve competency and Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School facilitates with their paperwork for the issuance of their Licence. Whilst a Student may be issued with paperwork that proves their competency, a person is not legally allowed to drive a heavy vehicle of that class until they have obtained their licence.
A scanned electronic copy of all signed qualifications issued will be converted to PDF format and secured in the student’s file.
Discipline
Discipline policy
All clients are expected to take responsibility in line with all current workplace practices and legislation for their own learning and behaviour during both on and off the job training and assessment. Students must not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, due to road licencing laws.
Any breaches of discipline will result in the client being given a verbal warning. Instructors are empowered to take reasonable disciplinary actions against a Student if any serious incident occurs. For serious offences, enrolment may be cancelled.
Roles and responsibilities
The RTO and its’ Trainer / Assessors
RTO’s facilitate the development and delivery of the training and assessment, they are required to: –
• Provide accurate and ethical information in relation to the training
• Design a training plan relative to all parties
• Provide qualified and industry relevant trainers and assessors
• Undertake a credit transfer, recognition of prior learning and recognition of current competencies process where applicable
• Provide relevant training and assessment services
• Treat all students politely, with respect and without discrimination
• Observe all OHS issues relating to a student’s safety and wellbeing
• Monitor the withdrawal of participants from routine work duties for the purpose of undertaking structured training and learning activities.
• Monitor student’s progress through their course
• Monitor and maintain student records, including the recording of results
• Facilitate additional learning support if required
• Issuance of qualifications at the completion of the course
• Comply with State and Commonwealth reporting and statistical requirements
• Adhere to the Standards for RTO’s in order to retain registration
Students
Students are required to: –
• Work towards achievement of the competencies detailed in the training plan
• Actively participated in training sessions and activities
• Observe all OHS requirements
• Undertake Assessments within the required timelines
• No plagiarism i.e. work must be your own
• Participate in evaluation and feedback activities in relation to your training plan
Employers
Employers are required to: –
• Provide on the job skill development by providing workplace tasks that relate to the units of competency within the qualification (if / where applicable)
• Work with the student and the RTO to support the achievement of competence in the required skills
Conflict of interest
A conflict includes reference to any Driving School trainer / assessor who is a family member, friend, member of the same social club, previous work colleague, or in any other way personally known to you etc. There is potential that this person may be presented with a conflict of interest i.e. influenced by their relationship with you, when carrying out their work-related duties in relation to the delivery of your training course / licence.
You must notify us immediately you become aware that there may be a conflict of interest with your Trainer / Assessor in order that we can act upon that information and prevent any event of corrupt conduct. We are also bound under certain Legislation to report conflicts of interest to the relevant Licencing regulators.
Inducements anti bribery and gifts
A student is notified at the time enrolment that any attempts at bribery will result in the termination of their training and assessment and a report on the incident forwarded to the regulators for ongoing compliance.
Bribery includes the student offering and /or a Trainer / Assessor requesting or accepting any benefits of any kind i.e. a gift, a meal, entertainment, payment, loan or other from or on behalf of an Applicant for Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School, or themselves or a third person) but excludes any training or assessment fee which the applicant would normally pay for their training.
However, if a student presents with a gift after the training and assessment has completed in a form of “thank you” wherever possible it will be returned. If this is not possible for any reason i.e. left in the mailbox, or handed to you by a third person on their behalf etc, the office will keep a record of the gift, in the gift register in the event of any future claims or investigations.
Penalties are severe and may include fines and imprisonment.
Termination of enrolment
Under its Quality Assurance procedures, Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School reserves the right to terminate a student’s enrolment should the student:
• Endanger the health and safety of another student or a teacher/trainer
• Engage in the falsification of documents and /or assessments and training outcomes.
• Divulge personal or confidential information relating to another student’s documents, assessment and training outcomes.
• Prevent other student/s from completing their course of study in reasonable peace and privacy.
• Refuse to act in accordance with any rules and regulations prescribed by the RTO that are designed to protect the wellbeing of others, e.g. Smoking policies.
• Furthermore any teacher/trainer employed by Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School who violates student’s rights or engages in any activity that causes stress or disadvantage to any student/client will be subject to disciplinary procedures that may involve termination of services.
Complaints and Appeals
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School has a defined complaints and appeals process that will enable learners’ complaints and appeals to be addressed effectively and efficiently.
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School strives to ensure that each student is satisfied with their learning experience and outcome. In the unlikely event that this is not the case, all students have access to rigorous, fair and timely complaint and appeal processes which are outlined in the grievances policy obtainable on request. Any complaints or appeals will be reviewed as part of the continuous improvement process and where corrective action has been highlighted, it will be implemented as a priority.
Complaint policy and procedure
In the event that a student has a complaint concerning any matter in relation to the organisation or the training provided, there is a process in place to ensure that the issue can be resolved amicably. All records of any complaint will be kept on file.
Natural Justice and Procedural Fairness
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School will follow the principles of natural justice and procedural fairness by allowing anyone subject to a decision by Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School, or anyone who has allegations made against them, to tell their side of the story before a decision is made.
Ensure that the decision maker is independent of the decision being reviewed (e.g. an assessor should not consider or decide an appeal against an assessment decision they made).
Students are able to express a complaint without concern of retribution and have the matter/s addressed in a manner which is amicable and non-threatening. Any person who makes a complaint or has a grievance will not be subject to any reprisal as a result of them registering such a complaint or grievance. This includes any subtle or implied reprisal. All complaints will be treated in both a confidential and caring manner.
The RTO will formally act on the subject of any appeal found to be substantiated.
Withdrawal Policy
Student initiated withdrawal
A student may withdraw from training and assessment services at any time during the time of their enrolment if they no longer wish to continue with the service. Written or verbal notification must be received by the RTO prior to the end of the enrolment date.
Refunds will be issued in line with our current refund policy and any outstanding fees will be pursued and moved to debt collection if not received in a timely manner.
Students have a right to receive a Statement of Attainment for any units of competency successfully completed.
Employer initiated withdrawal
If a student leaves the employment of a company that has paid for their course, prior to completing their training course, the employer has a right to withdraw the student. It is recommended that the student discuss continuation of their studies with the employer before their departure if they wish to continue. This may be done by telephone or in writing.
Ultimately as the financial contract is with the employer, they are the ‘client’, the employer’s advice will take precedent. In some circumstances, it may be possible for a student to finalise their course for an additional fee direct with us. This may still require consent from the employer in some instances. These cases will be reviewed on a case by case basis.
Refunds will be issued in line with our current refund policy and any outstanding fees will be pursued and moved to debt collection if not received in a timely manner.
RTO initiated withdrawal
If there is no student communication with the RTO, despite at least 2 attempts either by email or phone to contact the student (plus with the next of kin if known), the student can be withdrawn. Or, or if an assessment has not been received by the time the enrolment end date lapses the student will be considered withdrawn from the course.
Following this, wherever possible a written notification (email or letter) will be sent to the student advising them that their enrolment has been withdrawn. To continue studies the student would need to re-enrol.
Students have a right to receive a Statement of Attainment for any units of competency successfully completed.
Refunds will be issued in line with our current refund policy and any outstanding fees will be pursued and moved to debt collection if not received in a timely manner.
Changes to enrolment
If a student wishes to change from one course / qualification to another the first enrolment must be officially withdrawn in writing (email or letter) before a new enrolment can be made.
Should a student believe that they have been unfairly withdrawn they will need to submit a complaint or appeal regarding the in accordance with the Complaints and Appeals policy.
Reporting requirements
Unique Student Identifier (USI)
From 1 January 2015 onwards, all students undertaking any Nationally Recognised Vocational education and training will need to have their own Unique Student Identifier (USI) number. A USI is rather like a tax file number but instead of storing financial information about you, it stores details about any training course you have undertaken.
As a RTO we are bound by Law that we cannot issue a Statement of Attainment to any student that does not have a USI.
You can apply for your own USI (or we can do it on your behalf), if you already have a USI, we will be required to locate and verify and record it, before we are permitted to issue your statement of attainment, permission will be sought during the enrolment process.
You will receive a notice from the USI office, confirming we have accessed this function.
If you wish for us to create your USI on your behalf, we will need you to provide evidence of your identity and your country and town of birth in order to do this.
The USI will help keep all your training records and results together in an online account, which is controlled by yourself (please note that this results have only been collected from 1st January 2015, any courses prior to this time will not be visible).
Each time you enrol to study with a new training organisation, your USI will be used to store your training records and results.
By having a USI you will be able to access your training records and results (an authenticated transcript) whenever you need them. For example, if you commence work with a new employer.
You can access your USI online from any computer, tablet or smart phone and access 24/7, giving you your training records and results at your fingertips.
Therefore, as a condition of enrolment into any course with a RTO, you will need to grant us permission to view, create, verify, store and share your USI in order that we can issue your qualification.
The USI website has a function for students to download transcripts and organise to have errors a student has identified with a training record corrected.
If Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School identifies an issue with your training record, we are permitted to amend your records without your permission. You will be notified after the changes have been approved by National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) when this has been completed.
Whilst The Student Identifiers Act 2014 (s.11) Legislation requires a RTO to destroy personal information collected from individuals solely for the purpose of applying for a USI on their behalf as soon as practicable after the application has been made or the information is no longer needed for that purpose, we will retain a copy of your driving licence as part of the training and assessment process and in liaising with the licencing regulator on your behalf.
Records are also retained to assist in any future issues you may have with a potential mis-issuance of your truck licence i.e. in the wrong class or incorrect gearbox code.
AVETMISS
AVETMISS stands for Australian Vocational Education and Training Management Information Statistical Standard. It is a nationally consistent data standard that ensures the accurate capture and reporting and analysis of vocational education and training (VET) activity throughout Australia. The collection, analysis and research etc. for this data is controlled by NCVER.
Legislation requires all registered training organisations (RTOs) to collect and report AVETMISS- compliant records for all students and for all enrolments and outcomes achieved, for each calendar year (commenced January 2014).
The Government uses this information for research and for the planning and implementation of future training and employment policies.
Enrolment into any nationally recognised training course automatically includes your permission for NCVER (the industry body who implement and control AVETMISS data) to contact you to conduct a feedback survey. You are permitted to opt out of the survey at the time a representative of NCVER contacts you.
Quality Indicators
As a Government approved Registered Training Organisation, we are also required to report on Quality Indicators. These are made up of the following areas:-
• Student Satisfaction
• Employer Satisfaction
Therefore, at the end of your course, you may be asked to complete one of the feedback forms supplied by the Government or one of our own in house forms.
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School acts on the feedback received to improve its systems and processes for course delivery.
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School has a Records Policy and a Student Management System in place to secure the accuracy, integrity currency and storage of your student records.
Data is collected and stored in accordance with the processes outlined in this document and Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School record management procedures ensure timely and accurate records inform the continuous improvement processes of Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School.
In addition, these records management procedures will ensure that all documentation providing evidence of compliance to the essential standards of registration is accurately maintained.
Records will be retained in line with specific regulated / licencing outcomes, to meet with ongoing compliance, plus where training and assessment is conducted under any sort of funding agreement or contract, records will be stored for the prescribed timelines.
Legislation allows records to be kept in hard copy or electronic format. Current Policy at Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School is to keep documents in hard copy.
The only soft (electronic) copies that are kept are for fails, whereby a student may want to appeal an assessment decision.
RMS NSW require record retention of 7 years (2.5 for filming / recording FCA)
Students can gain access to their files by request in writing allowing 14 days’ notice.
Record Keeping Procedures
After making a booking, the student’s details will be entered into the Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School database system. This process initiates the establishment of the student’s individual file which is then used to record all future details pertaining to the client.
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School is committed to maintaining the accuracy, integrity and currency of all student files, as well as ensuring appropriate security of all records to uphold confidentiality and protect student privacy.
Completed assessments
Each and every assessment submitted by each and every service student will be securely retained for a minimum period of six (6) months, this is the original assessment you completed in a paper format. For students who record a not yet competent result, the assessment will also be kept in a PDF electronic format for a minimum period of 6 months, pending any student appeals.
Student archive files are filed in date order of completion (whether deemed competent or not competent). Student records are stored in a lockable container to which there is no public access.
All electronic student records are stored in our student management / AVETMISS compliant software and access is restricted by a password system, controlled by the HR manager.
Results of assessment records
Student assessment results will be recorded electronically within Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School student management system. This information is used to provide annual competency completion reports AVETMISS reports, as required.
We retain sufficient information to re-issue the Statement of Attainment. All results will be kept for thirty (30) years.
Copies of the model answers for each unit of competency are also retained together with any Assessor Guide or other necessary Regulator’s requirements.
All records are stored in line with legislative requirements i.e. Australian Skills Quality Authority (the governing body of RTO’s), RMS or Workplace Health and Safety (WHSQ) etc.. Control of this process is exercised through Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School Records Management Policy, which also outlines the process for destroying these documents when the retention period has expired.
Security
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School complies with the storage requirements detailed in ASQA’s General directive ‘Retention requirements for completed student assessment items (2013) and Schedule 5 of the NVR Standards for Registered Training Organisations (2015).
Hard copy records are retained under lock and key and in a manner that safeguards them against unauthorised access, fire, flood, termites or any other pests.
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School ensures the integrity and security of its compliance with this directive by protecting electronic files with up-to-date virus protection, spyware and malware protection. A daily on site back up is done daily (rotating between 3 different storage devices in case of failure). Control of this process is done through our daily admin check sheet.
Enrolment information, training and assessment information or results of assessment will be provided in electronic format to Government Departments, in the format directed by the Regulator, when legally required.
Paper records will be securely shredded in accordance with Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School Data Retention Policy, Regulatory requirements, controlled through the Record of Archives spreadsheet.
A copy of each Statement of Attainment will be placed in the student file.
If requested, the Statement of Attainment may be re-printed at any time within the thirty (30) year period after issue, using the records in RTO Data (or previous student records list).
This method ensures the original format, design, signature, date and units of competency are re- printed accurately and with a minimum of effort and expense.
Access to student records
Access to individual student training records will be limited to those required by the Privacy Act, such as:
• Trainers and assessors in relation to your training progress during your course.
• Management staff as required to ensure compliance and the smooth operation of the business
• WHS Inspectors or ASQA representatives for activities required under the standards for registered training organisations
• Officers of Funding Bodies for audit purposes
• Employers or job agencies etc, where they have contracted a course on behalf of a student and have a financial interest
• Regulators may also need to contact other regulators to confirm information about your during your course delivery
• Employers if they have paid for a student’s training course.
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School trainers and assessors will maintain accurate and current records of each student’s progress and achievement of competencies in the area of their study.
These records will be entered into RTO Data during your course and / or immediately at the completion of training and assessment.
All details of full or partially completed assessments will be recorded and stored on the student’s file and in in RTO data. A excel control document is used to control work, where students are completing logbooks in a workplace to record practical training hours.
You have the right to request information about your progress throughout your course duration, Students can gain access to their files by request in writing allowing 48 hours’ notice. Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School trainers and assessors or administration staff will provide the requested information or access.
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School ensures no student information is disclosed without the student’s consent, except as required by law or in adherence to the NVR Standards. If you wish us to release information to someone on your behalf, you will need to request this is writing.
A copy of this request and the information forwarded will be kept on your file.
Ceasing operation
In the event that Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School ceases to operate, its records will be transferred to ASQA in the appropriate format and detail as specified by the National Regulatory Authority at the time of ceasing RTO operations.
All other records such as business, accounting and taxation records, will be retained for a period of at least seven (7) years.
Insurances
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School ensures that it has all the insurance cover necessary to carry out its business including:
• Workers Compensation Insurance
• Public Liability Insurance
• Professional Indemnity Insurance
• Building and Contents Insurance
• Commercial Motor Policy
Legislative requirements
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School ensures that compliance with Commonwealth, State/Territory Legislation and regulatory requirements relevant to its operation is integrated into its policies and procedures and that compliance is maintained.
1 Acts
These are Laws to protect the health, safety and welfare of people at work
2. Regulations
Give more details or information on parts of the Act.
3. Codes of Practice
Practical instructions on how to best meet the terms of the Law.
4. Australian Standards
Minimum levels of performance or quality for a hazard, work process or product.
All Trainers and Assessors are required to be familiar with all the provisions of the following Legislation as it affects Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School as a Registered Training Organisation. This is done through staff meetings, training courses, industry networking etc. Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School identifies and complies with relevant State or Territory laws including, but not limited to, Commonwealth or State Territory Legislation including:
• Anti-Discrimination Act 1991
• Assessing Fitness to Drive (Aust Roads)
• Australian Human Rights Commission Act 1986 (Federal)
• Australian Privacy Principles (‘APPs’)
• Copyright Act 1968
• Data Provision Requirements 2012
• Dealing with workplace bullying – a worker’s guide
• Department of Transport and Main Roads regulatory requirements
• Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Federal)
• Driving Instructors Act 1992 (NSW)
• Driving Instructors Regulations 2016 (NSW)
• Electrical Safety Act (2002)
• Electrical Safety Regulation (2013)
• Environmental Protection Act 1994
• Fair Work Act 2009 (and any amending Legislation)
• Financial Transactions Reports Act 1988
• Freedom of Information Act 1992
• Further Education and Training Act 2014
• Further Education and Training Regulation 2014
• Guide for preventing and responding to workplace bullying
• Heavy Vehicle National Law Act 2012
• Heavy Vehicle (General) National Regulations 2013
• Heavy Vehicle Mass Dimension and Loading National Regulation 2013
• Heavy Vehicle Mass Dimension and Loading Limits
• Heavy Vehicle Fatigue Management National Regulation 2013
• Heavy Vehicle (Vehicle Standards) National Regulation 2014
• Industrial Relations Act 2016
• Information Privacy Act 2009 (Qld)
• Information Privacy Regulations 2009 (Qld)
• NSW Road and Maritime Services regulatory requirements
• Oaths Act 1867 (Part 4)
• Penalties and Sentences Act 1992
• Privacy Act 1988
• Privacy Amendment (enhancing Privacy Protection) Act 2012
• Privacy Regulation 2013
• Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 (NSW)
• Racial Discrimination Act 1975
• Recording of Evidence Act 1962 (NSW)
• Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Federal)
• Standards for Registered Training Organisations 2015
• Student Identifier Act 2014
• Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (and sub-ordinate regulations)
• VET Quality Framework
• Worker’s Compensation & Rehabilitation Act 2003
• Workplace Gender Equality Act 2012
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Amendments Act 2017
• Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011
• Workplace Relations Act 1996
• Workplace Surveillance Act 2005 (NSW)
This legislation can be accessed by either contacting Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School or through the internet. It can also be accessed by typing the name of the Act or Legislation into a web browser and undertaking an internet search.
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School audits that it is utilizing the most current version of the Legislation in line with its’ audit schedule. Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School will also update its Legislation on notification from relevant Government Departments / Regulators that Legislation has changed.
OHS
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School ensures OHS by advising all staff and students of their obligations under the legislation and managing the safety hazards associated with the performance of business activity by identifying them and applying appropriate controls.
The WHS Act aims to:
• protect the health and safety of workers and other people by eliminating or reducing workplace risks
• ensure effective representation, consultation and cooperation to address health and safety issues in the workplace
• encourage unions and employers to take a constructive role in improving health and safety practices
• promote information, education and training on health and safety
• provide effective compliance and enforcement measures
• deliver continuous improvement and progressively higher standards of health and safety.
Throughout the WHS Act, the meaning of health includes psychological health as well as physical health.
Reasonably practicable (section 18 – Work Health and Safety Act 2011)
The guiding principle of the WHS Act is that all people are given the highest level of health and safety protection from hazards arising from work, so far as is reasonably practicable. The term ‘reasonably practicable’ means what could reasonably be done at a particular time to ensure health and safety measures were in place. In determining what is reasonably practicable, there is a requirement to weigh up all relevant matters including:
Ordinarily, cost will not be the key factor in determining what it is reasonable for a duty holder to do unless it can be shown to be ‘grossly disproportionate’ to the risk. If the risk is particularly severe, a PCBU will need to demonstrate that costly safety measures are not reasonably practicable due to their expense and that other less costly measures could also effectively minimise the risk (i.e. the potential seriousness of injury or harm). What the person concerned knows, or ought to reasonably know, about the hazard or risk and ways of eliminating or minimising it.
Anti-discrimination
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School promotes equality of opportunity for everyone by protecting them from unfair discrimination in work and education by maintaining a strict policy of anti-discrimination on the grounds of sex, pregnancy, race, colour, religion, ethnicity, marital status, physical/intellectual disability, homosexuality and age. Every effort is made to keep off-the job and on-the-job situations free from unlawful discrimination and sexual harassment. In a multicultural student population, this is an important focus of our overall policy. Where it is felt discrimination has occurred, complaints on any of these issues are considered seriously.
Equal employment opportunity
EEO is part of Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School’s philosophy and is firmly adhered to. Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School endeavours to ensure that staff members are free from unlawful discrimination and harassment and that every opportunity is afforded to staff to improve their knowledge and skills to enhance their job prospects. Matters related to EEO are discussed at staff meetings and included, where needed, in staff bulletins and circulars.
Harassment
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School does not condone victimisation, bullying or any repeated behaviour to any person, by their staff or students that is unsolicited or unwanted of an offensive threatening intimidating or humiliating nature. Any issues will be dealt with through consultation and mediation.
Racial harassment
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School does not tolerate any form of racial harassment. Racial harassment involves any person being threatened, abused, insulted or taunted in relation to their race, descent, nationality, colour, language, ethnic origin or any other racial characteristic. It may include but is not limited to; derogatory remarks, innuendo or slur, gestures, intolerance, mockery, displays of material prejudice towards a race, racial jokes, discrimination, exclusion, allocation of least favourable jobs or positions, or unfair treatment.
Sexual harassment
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School does not tolerate any form of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment involves any verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, which is inappropriate, unwelcome or uninvited. It may include but is not limited to; sexually related physical contact such as kissing, embracing, pinching or other suggestive gestures, intimidation, coercion, requests for or promising of sexual favours, questions about a person’s private or sexual life, sexist or explicit jokes, unwelcome phone calls, emails or other forms of non-work related communication, offensive noises, or displays of sexually graphic or suggestive material.
Further Education and Training Act
The Further Education and Training Act provides an overview of legal definitions, basic concepts, apprenticeships and traineeships and vocational placements. It also provides the overarching legal framework for the operation of RTO’s, procedures for amending, suspending and cancelling registration, audit powers, other powers, accredited courses, apprenticeship contracts, employer obligations, the training ombudsman, the Training and Employment board and council, and the operation of TAFE institutes. Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School adheres to current legislation to maintain its status as an RTO.
Worker’s compensation and rehabilitation
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School actively promotes the prevention of work related injury and disease through constant supervision and advice to staff and students. In the event of injury, Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School meets its obligation to provide benefits by maintaining appropriate Worker’s Compensation insurance.
Industry specific legislation & relevant material
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School will also refer and adhere to other industry specific Legislation such as The TORUMS Legislation (Transport Operations Road Use Management) for road rules and Legislation that relates directly to the issuance of heavy vehicle licences.
Privacy
Top Skilled Services T/A Core Driving School is required to comply with the Australian Privacy Principles (‘APPs’), which amends the Privacy Act 1988. The APPs set out the obligations of an organisation in relation to its collection, storage, use and disclosure of personal information.
If you have any concerns that your privacy or believe your privacy rights have been breached, please contact us.