BUYER BEWARE - Paying good money for bad training

Vocational education and training was in the news a lot last year - and for all the wrong reasons. Reports would indicate that the sector is in a state of crisis, with the exposure of systemic rorting in relation to government funding, particularly the VET-FEE-HELP scheme.

It is a warning to all potential students and trainees - never complete and sign an enrolment form without scrutinising what is on offer.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

There are reports of an increase in Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) visiting construction sites and offering Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and accreditation to workers for courses that are of no value to them in terms of jobs. In these instances, the RTO claims government funding for the enrolment so the enrolment benefits them more than the student. If you are approached by an RTO and invited to sign up for training, find out:

• What does the training involve – How long? Where?
• What qualification will I receive at the end of the training?
• How will the training benefit me?
• What is the cost of enrolment?
• Is there face-to-face training or is it an online course with no contact from a trainer?
• Is it an RPL process?
• Is the RTO claiming government funding for my enrolment and what does this mean for my funding entitlements in the future?

If you have any questions about training, funding entitlements or would like advice about whether a provider is reputable, the CFMEU Education and Training Unit can answer your questions.

For further information about CFMEU training visit vic.cfmeu.org.au/training and download our Dare to Learn Directory and Pathways Guide or contact the CFMEU Education and Training Unit on 9341 3444.