Learner Handbook | First Aid Today

Welcome

Thank you for deciding to complete your learning experience with First Aid Today. First Aid Today is a nationally recognised registered training organisation (RTO) delivering nationally recognised qualifications. Any information relating to the policies and procedures First Aid Today has developed to make your learning experience as beneficial as possible can be found in this Learner Handbook.

We require you to take the time to read the Learner Handbook in full to gain a thorough understanding of your rights and responsibilities as a learner.

In particular, all learners completing First Aid Today courses will:

Be given the support required to successfully complete their course
Not be discriminated against on the basis of gender, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, cultural beliefs, disability or other factors
Be able to provide feedback
Be treated with respect
Be given the chance to follow a complaints process
Be able to access their personal records upon request

If at any point you are unsure of your rights or responsibilities as a learner, or you would like clarification regarding an item contained within this Learner Handbook, please contact us directly for assistance. We hope your learning experience with us is enjoyable, and thank you once again for choosing First Aid Today.

Overseas Learners

While First Aid Today is able to deliver nationally recognised courses to learners from Australia or any other country, First Aid Today cannot deliver courses to a learner who is considered to be an “Overseas Student”, unless the course is on this exemption list.

The Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 defines an Overseas Student as a person, whether inside or outside Australia, who holds a student visa. Information relating to student visas can be found in regulation 1.03 of the Migration Regulations 1994.

This includes the following types of student visa:

A Subclass 500 (Student) visa
A Subclass 570 (Independent ELICOS Sector) visa
A Subclass 571 (Schools Sector) visa
A Subclass 572 (Vocational Education and Training Sector) visa
A Subclass 573 (Higher Education Sector) visa
A Subclass 574 (Postgraduate Research Sector) visa
A Subclass 575 (Non-Award Sector) visa
A Subclass 576 (Foreign Affairs or Defence Sector) visa

To undertake nationally recognised training, Overseas Students must enrol with training organisations that are Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) registered. First Aid Today is not currently CRICOS registered.

First Aid Today is committed to ensuring our courses are not delivered to Overseas Students as defined above in order to ensure compliance with the Education Services for Overseas Students Act. Learners must verify their status is not that of an Overseas Student before they are able to enrol in an First Aid Today course. To ensure this verification process is completed effectively, the learner is required to submit their passport number or ImmiCard number and country of issuance, which will be checked using the Department of Home Affairs VEVO system.

Access and Equity

First Aid Today is a strong believer in inclusivity and equal opportunity. The learner experience is designed to abide by Australian anti discrimination laws. Every learner has the right to be treated with fairness. First Aid Today strictly forbids bullying, harassment, discrimination or vilification of any kind. It is a right of learners to be provided with an environment free from harassment or discrimination. Any unacceptable behaviour will result in disciplinary action being taken by the Directors of First Aid Today. Disciplinary action may include exclusion from the course or a report being made to relevant authorities such as the Australian Human Rights Commission.

We guarantee learners will not be discriminated against on the basis of aspects including, but not limited to:

Gender
Religion
Socio-economic status
Sexual orientation
Background
Age
Disability or impairment
Employment status

First Aid Today must stress that if an allegation of discrimination is received, the allegation will be taken extremely seriously. The Directors of First Aid Today take pride in ensuring learners are treated with fairness and dignity, regardless of their circumstances.

Harassment and Bullying

At no point will First Aid Today allow learners, staff or anyone else involved in the learning process to be bullied or harassed. Any allegations of bullying or harassment should be reported to First Aid Today for examination. Our process for dealing with these allegations is based on principles of fairness, equity and natural justice. Please review our complaints and appeals process for information regarding how to lodge a complaint relating to harassment or bullying.

Legislation

The Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) is the national regulator for Australia's vocational education and training (VET) sector. First Aid Today abides by ASQA requirements to ensure nationally approved quality standards are met.

As an RTO, First Aid Today is required to abide by legislation and regulations designed to uphold the quality of the national vocational education and training system.

These include, but are not limited to:

The Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) (2015)
National Vocational Education and Training Regulator Act 2011
Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF)

More information about the VET Quality Framework can be found at:

The Federal Register of Legislation
Australian Skills Quality Authority

First Aid Today also abides by a range of legal requirements at a State and Commonwealth level including, but not limited to:

Age Discrimination Act 2004
Skilling Australia’s Workforce Act 2005
Legislative Instruments Act 2003
Work Health and Safety Act 2011
Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Act 1986
Fair Trading Act 1989
Disability Discrimination Act 1992
Disability Standards for Education 2005
Racial Discrimination Act 1975
Racial Hatred Act 1995
Workers' Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003
Sex Discrimination Act 1984
Privacy Act 1988 and National Privacy Principles (2001) (as amended)
Work Health and Safety Act 2011
Workplace Relations Act 1996
Child Protection Act 1999
Copyright Act 1968
Competition and Consumer Act 2010
Vocational Education, Training and Employment Act 2000
Vocational Education, Training and Employment Regulation 2000
Child Employment Act 2006
Child Protection Act 1999

Educational and Learner Support Services

As well as requiring the learner to complete a LLN Assessment Tool before commencement of their training, First Aid Today sends emails to learners whose accounts are inactive for more than seven days to remind learners to contact First Aid Today if they require assistance. First Aid Today works with learners to identify learner needs and accommodate for these needs where necessary. Accommodations may include reasonable adjustments to the delivery of training and assessment to give the learner a chance to complete the course. However, First Aid Today ensures the validity of the assessment at all times, meaning there are certain circumstances where we may be unable to assist. Where First Aid Today is unable to assist with a particular issue faced by a learner, we will direct the learner to support services that may be able to assist. In this way First Aid Today is always seeking the best possible outcome for learners, regardless of their circumstances.

First Aid Today is committed to giving learners the information they require to seek relevant support services. If you are experiencing difficulties in your personal life, we strongly encourage you to seek assistance from one of the support services below:

Centrelink: 131 021
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
Mission Australia Helpline: 1300 886 999
Alcohol and Drug Information Service: 3236 2414
Lifeline: 13 11 14 or www.lifeline.org.au
Youth Emergency Service (Accommodation): 3357 7655
Alcoholics Anonymous: 3255 9162
Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 or www.beyondblue.org.au
Drug-Arm 1300 656 800
Translating and Interpreting Service: 131 450
Mates in Construction: 1300 642 111
Men’s Line Australia: 1300 789 978
Pregnancy Helpline: 1300 139 313
Salvation Army: 13 SALVOS (13 72 58) or www.salvos.org.au
State-wide Sexual Assault Helpline: 1800 010 120

Please note that if you require support from a service that is not listed here, you are able to contact First Aid Today and we may be able to assist in finding a relevant service for you to contact. It should be noted any costs associated with external support services will be borne by the learner.

We are also able to provide increased access through supplying learning resources in alternate formats, allowing open communication with learner support staff, providing alternate methods of assessment, giving clear instructions and making learning materials as relevant as possible. If you are a learner that is in need of support, please get in touch by visiting the Contact Us page of First Aid Today’s website. A qualified trainer and assessor will be able to provide guidance and accommodate your needs where possible.

Other examples of student support include, but are not limited to:

Enrolment support
Arranging contact between a trainer and assessor and learner

IT and administration support is available via email and phone during business hours. A trained professional is on hand to assist learners with IT and system administration issues. Again, learners are encouraged to contact First Aid Today at any point where they feel support may be beneficial.

Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN)

First Aid Today is committed to ensuring the support needs of each learner are met, which is why First Aid Today uses an enrolment diagnostic assessment to assess the language, literacy and numeracy skills of each learner before they begin their course. Learners are provided with information relating to the LLN requirements of their course before enrolment. They are then required to conduct an assessment to confirm they possess the required skills before beginning their course.

It is the learner’s responsibility to complete the assessment accurately and report any potential issues to First Aid Today staff prior to enrolment. A qualified First Aid Today trainer and assessor will assess the results of the LLN assessment and contact learners if additional support is deemed beneficial. Learners are encouraged to contact First Aid Today for a confidential discussion if they believe their LLN level may not meet the standards required to complete the course. First Aid Today staff will endeavor to provide assistance where possible, which may include directing the learner to a language support service. An First Aid Today trainer will also be available during business hours to provide phone support to learners who identify as having LLN issues. First Aid Today’s courses have also been developed in such a way that the learner is required to possess an adequate level of LLN to progress through the course. It is important to note that while First Aid Today trainers will discuss the LLN needs of the learner where necessary; it is ultimately the learner’s decision to continue with their enrolment. While our qualified trainers and assessors and administration/IT support staff will be able to provide assistance in most cases, it should be noted that in circumstances where learners are referred to external support services, any costs will be borne by the learner.

Support services that we recommend include:

The Reading Writing Hotline – 1300 655 506 (a free national referral service for adults relating to reading, writing and basic numeracy)
Queensland Government Computer Courses - https://www.qld.gov.au/education/further-ed/shortcourses/computer (an online directory for computer courses)

LLN Record Keeping

Trainers and assessors record all conversations had with learners regarding LLN issues. These records remain confidential and are not shared with external parties or staff members who are not involved in providing support, unless agreed to by the learner. Further information relating to the privacy of learners who require support services can be found in the First Aid Today privacy policy.

Interpreters

If a learner requires the services of an interpreter, First Aid Today staff will direct learners to interpreter services – including low-cost online solutions. If government funding does not support interpreter services, the cost of these services will be borne by the learner.

Disability Support

First Aid Today is committed to supporting learners with disability. If learners with disability encounter issues during their course completion, they are encouraged to contact First Aid Today to receive support from a qualified, skilled trainer and assessor. Where First Aid Today is unable to assist a learner, we will endeavor to find a training provider who can, or direct the learner to relevant support services.

Feedback

First Aid Today provides learners with several opportunities to provide survey feedback during their course. Learners are also encouraged to provide feedback via a follow-up email upon completion of their course. Learners are able to provide feedback by contacting First Aid Today at any point.

Complaints and Appeals Policy

Our Complaints and Appeals Policy can be found here.

Marketing

First Aid Today ensures all marketing materials comply with Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) certification guidelines by providing prospective students with information that is accurate and consistent with First Aid Today’s scope of registration. First Aid Today is committed to ensuring all marketing is ethical and any use of the Nationally Recognised Training (NRT) logo is compliant in accordance with Schedule 4 of the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015. All marketing material includes the code and the full title of the unit of competency or accredited course, as well as First Aid Today’s RTO provider code.

It is important to note that First Aid Today will never guarantee:

A learner will successfully complete the course
A learner will obtain a particular employment outcome
A course can be completed in a manner that does not meet the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015

Training and Assessment

All training and assessment is delivered in accordance with the Principles of Assessment, as specified in the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015. This includes ensuring assessment is fair, valid, reliable and flexible. First Aid Today ensures the collection of evidence for assessment is sufficient, current and authentic in order to adhere to the Rules of Evidence. The learning experience has been tailored to meet the assessment guidelines specified within the Training Packages for the courses being delivered by First Aid Today. Training and assessment strategies have been developed for each course to ensure Training Package requirements are closely adhered to. The learning experience created by First Aid Today also ensures the learner is given feedback in a timely and consistent manner.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

First Aid Today provides learners with the opportunity to have prior experience and learning recognised in accordance with the Standards for Registered Training Organisations. First Aid Today is committed to recognising pre-existing learner experience, knowledge and education, no matter the circumstances in which it was gained.

The learner can begin the First Aid Today Recognition of Prior Learning process by completing an RPL application form, available on First Aid Today’s website. Once this application has been received, one of our trainers and assessors will contact the learner to provide additional information. The RPL process is based on gathering evidence to ensure the learner is in a position to be recognised as having gained prior education, experience or knowledge.

The evidence gathering process may involve interviews, written presentations, portfolio review, and demonstration or a skills test. Written testimonials from relevant third parties, Statements of Attainment, certificates or academic transcripts may also be required. Due to the flexible nature of the RPL process, each application will be assessed based on its own merits. All evidence gathered must be sufficient, authentic, valid and current. While First Aid Today’s RPL process is rigorous, it is also conducted using principles of fairness and equity. It is also important to note that it is a requirement of certain Training Packages for the learner to undertake formal training in order to achieve competency and complete the qualification. This is to ensure the learner possesses the required skills and knowledge to operate in the context of their desired workplace or industry. We will notify you of the formal assessment requirements of the course you are enrolled in. It is important to note that these formal assessment requirements must be completed, regardless of the learner’s level of prior knowledge, skill or education.

An application for RPL can be made at any time prior to commencement of the course; however, the learner is required to make payment before an RPL application can be processed. Once a trainer and assessor processes the RPL application, the learner will be advised in writing of the outcome. Successful applicants will be advised of the next step required to complete their qualification. Unsuccessful applicants will be advised of the reason their application was unsuccessful. These applicants will be given instructions on how to progress with their course. They will also be given information relating to how to appeal the decision using the First Aid Today formal complaints process.

Please note RPL applications can only be considered if they relate to a unit of competency that is included in First Aid Today’s scope of registration and RPL may only be awarded in relation to whole units of competency.

Fees & Refund

Our Fees and Refund Policy can be found here.

Replacement White Card Policy

First Aid Today is committed to replacing damaged, stolen or lost White Cards for learners who have completed the qualification either with First Aid Today or another registered training organisation. We will also replace White Cards that have been issued with incorrect details. First Aid Today’s replacement White Cards are nationally recognised and accepted across Australia. The cost of an First Aid Today replacement White Card is $39.

To receive a replacement White Card, learners are encouraged to complete the Replacement White Card form available on our website and submit payment. This form will include a Statutory Declaration section. Once the form has been submitted, First Aid Today staff will review it. If the application to receive a replacement White Card is approved, the learner will receive written confirmation, as well as their White Card number, via email. Your White Card will be shipped to you on the next business day. You will not be issued a replacement Statement of Attainment as part of this process. If you wish to receive a replacement Statement of Attainment, please contact the provider you first completed your White Card course with.

Important: You cannot receive a replacement White Card if you have not completed the White Card course with First Aid Today or another registered training organisation.

Issuing of Statements of Attainment

Once a learner has successfully completed all requirements, they will be issued a Statement of Attainment via email. First Aid Today takes great care to ensure our Statements of Attainment are authentic and original. Authenticity measures include a watermark and uniquely generated code that can be verified using First Aid Today’s system.

All Statements of Attainment issued by First Aid Today are in accordance with the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015. Statements of Attainments are only issued for courses listed on First Aid Today’s scope of registration. All Statements of Attainment issued by First Aid Today contain the following information:

The name of the unit of competency achieved
The code of the unit of competency achieved
The Nationally Recognised Training logo
Learner details
The name and signature of the person authorised to issue the Statement of Attainment

Once all requirements have been completed, a Statement of Attainment will be issued. A learner is able to request a physical Statement of Attainment. First Aid Today provides this service at a cost to the learner. Learners are advised to review the fees section of this Learner Handbook for more information.

If a learner wishes to access their Statement of Attainment online, they are able to do so using First Aid Today’s learner management system. First Aid Today securely stores all evidence of learner outcomes in our database for a period of 30 years. During this time EOT staff are able to access learner records.

If a learner has been issued a hard copy of their Statement of Attainment and has misplaced this copy, they are able to purchase the hard copy Statement of Attainment again. Learners can do this by contacting First Aid Today via email. After identity verification has been completed, First Aid Today will advise learners of how to proceed in order to be issued their hard copy Statement of Attainment.

Verification and Authentication

First Aid Today places high importance on ensuring the learner has completed the assessment themselves to properly prepare learners for the industry they choose to work in. We must be sure the learner possesses the required skills and knowledge before issuing a qualification. First Aid Today does this by verifying a learner’s identity in the following ways:

Asking details such as full name, date of birth and phone number during phone and video calls
Conducting identification audits during which learners will be asked basic questions pertaining to the course
Unique Student Identifier’s are verified automatically using First Aid Today’s online system
Requiring learners to complete a declaration declaring they were the person who completed the course without assistance from anyone other than First Aid Today staff

Completing the White Card also includes the need for the learner to present 100 points of identification. Accepted identification may include any of the following:

A valid, current driver’s licence
An 18 plus card
A valid, current passport
A student or school identification card

Learners are able to provide certified copies of identification accepted under the Financial Transactions Reports Act 1988 (Cth) if they are unable to provide photo identification.

Learners may provide alternate forms of identification. This can include the following:

Medicare card
Birth Certificate
Credit card
Land title record

However, it is important to note that one of the forms of identification must show the current address of the learner. This can include a:

Rates notice
Public utility account
Land line telephone account

A White Card will not be issued without proper verification of identification under any circumstances.

Privacy Policy

Our Privacy Policy can be found here.

VET Data use

The National VET Data Policy and Data Provision Requirements 2012 require First Aid Today to collect and submit data that is compliant with the Australian Vocational Education and Training Management Information Statistical Standard (AVETMISS). AVETMISS data submitted to state and federal bodies may be used to meet reporting requirements or accreditation conditions.

Access to records and record keeping

First Aid Today understands the importance of allowing learners to access records when required. Learners are able to access financial records and Statements of Attainment at any time by logging into First Aid Today’s website. We ensure access by maintaining our online reporting systems and storing accurate, relevant data securely. First Aid Today is committed to storing records of learner results data electronically for a period of 30 years. Training Records are kept for a period of at least 10 years. First Aid Today follows ASQA’s guideline requiring RTOs to securely retain all completed assessment items for each student for a period of six months from the date on which the assessment of competence was made. First Aid Today is able to produce this information for audit if required. Training records may include, but are not limited to, enrolment details, fees, invoices, date and time of learning, trainer and assessor details, applications and declarations, records of audits and outcomes, certification or other documents, Statements of Attainment, instances of learner misconduct and proof of identity.

Information gathered during the learning process is stored by First Aid Today electronically and securely, and reported to the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) when required.

First Aid Today and the Learner Experience

First Aid Today achieves ideal outcomes for learners by focusing on the core elements of the learner experience. These elements have been developed by ASQA in accordance with the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015 to ensure positive training experiences for Australian learners. First Aid Today’s commitment to these elements is detailed below.

Marketing

First Aid Today ensures all marketing materials comply with Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) certification guidelines by providing prospective students with information that is accurate and consistent with First Aid Today’s scope of registration. First Aid Today is committed to ensuring all marketing is ethical and any use of the Nationally Recognised Training (NRT) logo is compliant in accordance with Clause 4.1 of the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015. It is important to note that First Aid Today will never guarantee:

A learner will successfully complete the course
A learner will obtain a particular employment outcome
A course can be completed in a manner that does not meet the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015

To ensure marketing remains transparent, accurate and consistent with First Aid Today’s scope of registration, internal, monthly marketing audits are conducted – detailing all elements of First Aid Today’s marketing strategy. This audit is conducted in accordance with the details provided in ASQA’s Marketing Factsheet. Elements to be considered during this audit include use of First Aid Today’s RTO code, proper identification of the RTO delivering the training, and adherence to standards relating to the code and title of training products.

Prior to enrolment

First Aid Today uses a system in the early stages of the learner experience to establish a base of common knowledge among all learners. First Aid Today ensures all learners are aware of all aspects of the course they plan to enrol in, and the training provider they plan to enrol with, by asking them to review our Learner Handbook and agree to a set of specified terms and conditions. By giving learners detailed information regarding their course and training provider, the learner is in a better position to choose the course that suits them best.

The learner is also able to form questions relating to the course based on this information. If a learner has a question, they are encouraged to contact the staff at First Aid Today for assistance. Learner responses to questions asked by First Aid Today trainers and assessors will help to determine the level of support they require.

In terms of Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) requirements, First Aid Today directs learners to complete an assessment tool before formally enrolling in any course provided by First Aid Today. After completion of this assessment the learner and First Aid Today trainers and assessors will have a more accurate understanding of the LLN support required by the learner.

Enrolment

Once the learner has completed all other tasks associated with the ‘Prior to Enrolment’ stage of the learner experience, the learner is able to formally enrol in the course. A learner will have six months to complete the course. If the learner has not completed final assessment requirements during this time period, their enrolment will expire and they will forfeit course fees. The learner will be required to re-enrol and pay applicable re-enrolment fees if this occurs. The reason First Aid Today requires learners to complete their training within a set time period is to ensure continuous improvements can be made to the course in accordance with changes to legislation, regulatory/licensing requirements and internal processes.

First Aid Today collects information required for mandatory Australian Vocational Education and Training Management Information Statistical Standard (AVETMISS) reporting. This also satisfies First Aid Today’s requirement to:

Confirm a learner’s eligibility to study
Confirm a learner’s address and identity
Collect Unique Student Identifier (USI) information
Confirm whether the learner has any special needs
Give the learner the opportunity to identify potential LLN issues
Confirm the learner has read the Terms and Conditions, the Learner Handbook and other policies relating to the course

Learners may also be required to provide photo identification showing their date of birth upon request. If photo identification cannot be produced, learners may be required to produce other acceptable forms of identification to verify their identity. These forms of identification are explained in the Verification and Authentication section of the Learner Handbook.

Support and progression

Support is available to learners from the point they begin researching their course, all the way through to completion. Learners are advised to visit the Contact Us section of First Aid Today’s website for access to frequently asked questions and contact details. First Aid Today’s qualified trainers and assessors are committed to ensuring learner queries are answered in a reasonable timeframe. If a learner feels at any point in their course that they are not receiving adequate support, they are encouraged to contact us and detail their concerns.

First Aid Today strives to provide additional support to learners with special needs. Our trainers and assessors, who are given the authority to make adjustments for learners living with disability or other special needs, evaluate this on a case-by-case basis. Staff may also take into account LLN needs, cultural circumstances and other needs of the individual learner when making a decision regarding accommodations.

Training and Assessment

First Aid Today has developed a Training and Assessment Strategy (TAS) for each training product on its scope of registration. The TAS for each training product developed by First Aid Today was informed by industry engagement. First Aid Today conducts effective assessment by complying with requirements of relevant training packages and conducting assessment in accordance with ASQA’s Principles of Assessment. Taking into account individual needs as identified by the learner and trainers and assessors achieves fairness, while conducting a fair RPL process and using a range of relevant assessment methodologies ensures flexibility.

First Aid Today achieves validity in its assessment through ensuring its assessment covers the broad range of skills and knowledge that are essential to competent performance. Assessment of knowledge and skills is integrated with practical application and ensuring assessment is aligned to the Unit of Competency. Finally, First Aid Today achieves reliability in its assessment by ensuring trainers and assessors conduct their work according to stringent internal policies, therefore developing consistency in assessment.

The TAS for each training product complies with the requirements of the relevant Training Package, with a focus placed on achieving learner competency to the standard expected in the workplace. Learners are able to provide feedback on the assessment process during and after completion of their course. It should be noted that each learner receives feedback on their assessment in a timely and efficient manner – using the latest assessment technologies. All assessment will be conducted in accordance with principles of fairness and equity.

Completion

Assessment completed by learners is marked Satisfactory or Not Yet Satisfactory, depending on the judgment of the trainer and assessor. In instances where assessment is judged Not Yet Satisfactory, learners are able to resubmit their assessment after reconsidering First Aid Today’s learning materials. Once all assessments have been marked satisfactory, the learner is able to complete all other requirements of the course and be issued a Statement of Attainment.

Statements of Attainment are only issued to learners who have been assessed as meeting the requirements of the course as specified in the relevant Training Package. A Statement of Attainment is issued to a learner via email within one business day of the learner being assessed as meeting the requirements of the course. We store records of learner AQF certification documentation securely for 30 years, giving learners access to their personal records during this time.

First Aid Today’s completion process also complies with the requirements of the Student Identifier scheme. The scheme allows students to access a single online record of their VET outcomes. First Aid Today can only issue a Statement of Attainment if the learner has provided First Aid Today with a verified Unique Student Identifier (USI) or First Aid Today has applied for a USI on behalf of the learner. First Aid Today takes security very seriously, and ensures all USIs and other information provided by the learner is stored securely in our learner management system. Our security measures extend to any documentation or Statements of Attainment issued to learners. Learners wishing to access their records may do so by logging in to their account using their unique user login details. They are also able to request access to their records by submitting a written request to First Aid Today. At this time, First Aid Today will verify the learner’s identity before issuing records.

Notification of changes

Any changes that learners should reasonably be made aware of will be relayed to learners in a timely and efficient manner. These changes could include, but are not limited to:

Changes to legislation
Changes to First Aid Today’s internal processes
Changes to licensing agreements
Changes to Training and Assessment Strategies
Changes of ownership

Changes will be relayed through First Aid Today’s website and learner management system. If a learner has any questions related to changes, they are encouraged to contact First Aid Today for assistance by visiting the Contact Us section of First Aid Today’s website.

Health and safety

The health and safety of First Aid Today’s learners, staff and anyone else associated with training is of paramount concern. Chair positioning is also useful to consider, as this will affect posture. The learner’s chair should be adjusted to allow normal upright posture of the spine. Feet should be planted on the floor, approximately shoulder-width apart. It is important to take breaks and get out of your chair regularly, to maintain optimal blood flow to muscle groups that may be neglected while sitting. Generally it is suggested to stand or change posture every 15-30 minutes. This also helps to reduce strain on the eyes, which can become fatigued after prolonged exposure to a screen. In terms of your eyes, remember to avoid screen glare and work in an environment that is not too bright. At First Aid Today we strongly encourage staff to leave their chair every 30 minutes, and to participate in some form of physical exercise daily. We find this not only helps with health, but also with mental focus.

Unique Student Identifier (USI) Policy

As stated by ASQA, the Student Identifier scheme, enabled by the Student Identifiers Act 2014, allows students to access a single online record of their vocational education and training outcomes. The scheme also helps employers and other registered training organisations to confirm these outcomes.

First Aid Today can only issue a Statement of Attainment if the learner has provided First Aid Today with a verified Unique Student Identifier (USI). First Aid Today takes security very seriously, and ensures all USIs and other information provided by the learner is stored securely in our learner management system, behind valid security measures and procedures.

Learners are prompted to create their USI and or supply it to First Aid Today. Learners are given information relating to what a USI is, how to apply for a USI, circumstances where learners may be exempt from needing to supply a USI, and where to find additional information pertaining to USIs. It should be noted that if a learner is able to be exempt from providing a USI, their records might not appear on their transcript.

When providing us with your USI, it is immediately checked against the USI database using online, secure software. If the USI you provided is invalid you will be notified immediately. At this point you are able to resubmit your USI for verification.

While First Aid Today is required to provide USI details during regular AVETMISS reporting, the privacy of each learner’s USI is protected at all times.

If a learner feels their USI transcript is incomplete, they are advised to contact First Aid Today in writing explaining their issue. We may need to contact you regarding this issue, so please have your USI details ready. Only the training organisation that issued the Statement of Attainment is able to update your USI transcript. Please note that as with many training providers, First Aid Today updates USI records yearly, meaning learners should keep Statements of Attainments and other documents issued by First Aid Today for evidence of completed training.

Please note this policy applies to all learners enrolled with First Aid Today. If you have additional questions, please get in touch by visiting the Contact Us page of First Aid Today’s website.

Learner misconduct

While learners have rights as part of the learning experience, they also have responsibilities. It is important that learners act with honesty and integrity when completing any aspect of their training, to ensure fair outcomes for all parties involved. Any instance of cheating, plagiarising or dishonesty when completing any element of training will lead to disciplinary action being taken by the staff of First Aid Today. Please note dishonesty may apply to any aspect of the course, and includes, but is not limited to, subverting processes and impersonation or conspiracy to perform in a manner that may be considered academic misconduct.

Where academic misconduct has occurred, the learner who committed the misconduct will be made to forfeit any training completed and payment made and restart the course. If the misconduct is identified after the learner has completed their course, any Statements of Attainment and other documentation issued will be cancelled. In either case, the learner will be given a written notice of their infringement and disciplinary action to be taken by First Aid Today. They will be given the chance to appeal this decision using the First Aid Today complaints and appeals process located in this Learner Handbook.

Please be aware of possible actions that may be described as misconduct. They include, but are not limited to:

Theft
Harassment
Discrimination
Breach of confidence
Misuse of property, both physical and intellectual
Plagiarism
Improper conduct
Obstruction
Alteration
Disregard of terms and conditions of training
Willfully disobeying lawful orders or directions
Refusal to provide identification when lawfully asked to do so
Breach of copyright
Damaging property
Defacing property
Interfering with learning
Defamation
Working in collaboration with other learners

Please note that First Aid Today does not permit collaboration with other learners in preparation of assessment. If a learner is experiencing difficulties, they are encouraged to contact First Aid Today directly.

First Aid Today will report any criminal actions or civil breaches to the relevant authorities.

Possible disciplinary action includes, but is not limited to:

A formal caution
A requirement for the learner to resubmit assessment
A requirement for the learner to resubmit payment
Exclusion from First Aid Today
A report being made to relevant regulatory authorities

The type of disciplinary action taken will depend on the nature of the offence. First Aid Today staff will decide on the necessary disciplinary action. Learners are able to formally appeal this action. Please note that the learner must make an appeal within 30 days of receiving written confirmation of the action taken by First Aid Today. First Aid Today’s standard process for responding to appeals will then take place. Please note that as part of the appeals process the learner may be required to provide a written statement, sign a statutory declaration or provide evidence disputing the decision made by First Aid Today.

Training and Assessment Strategy

First Aid Today takes great care to ensure its assessment methodologies comply with the Principles of Assessment and Rules of Evidence as required by ASQA. All assessment conducted as part of a course delivered by First Aid Today also adheres to the requirements of the relevant Training Package, and any licensing requirements related to the course.

To ensure the validity of First Aid Today’s assessment, learners are not permitted to receive assistance from third parties, except with the written consent of First Aid Today staff. If a learner requires assistance, they are to contact First Aid Today directly and we will work with the learner to reach an outcome. All assessment completed by learners must be completed in English, as there is no provision for learners to complete assessment in any other language. All assessment submitted by a learner must be their own. First Aid Today ensures authenticity by lawfully requiring learners to present identification as part of the assessment process. If at any point during the assessment process, the learner feels that assessment methods are unfair or their submitted assessment has been marked unfairly, they are able to appeal the assessment decision. In this case the learner should follow the complaints and appeals process outlined in this Learner Handbook.

All courses delivered by First Aid Today include knowledge assessments, whereby learners demonstrate their knowledge by answering a series of questions. All questions included in these sections can be mapped to the knowledge evidence required within the Training Package relevant to each course. To ensure validity when assessing competency, First Aid Today uses a system that does not allow the learner to progress in their course unless they truly possess the knowledge to be assessed. If a learner answers a knowledge question incorrectly, they are advised to review the learning resources. If they answer incorrectly again, they are moved back one question and required to resubmit an answer. The question the learner is moved back to will be a different variation of the question they initially answered. In this way, the learner must consider their answers carefully before submitting them to be assessed. It will be extremely difficult for the learner to progress through First Aid Today’s courses using a system of trial and error.

CPCWHS1001 - Prepare to work safely in the construction industry

Learners are supplied with learning resources, which they are directed to review before completing each item of assessment. Learners are able to review the learning resources pertaining to each section of the knowledge assessment at any time.

The knowledge assessment process gives the learner an understanding of their course progress at all times. The learner is encouraged to review the learning resources pertaining to each question before attempting assessment. However, First Aid Today understands learners may have pre-existing knowledge and skills, so learners are able to attempt assessment submission without reviewing the resources if they wish. In this instance learners still have the potential to be moved back one question, presented with a different question variation, and required to resubmit assessment.

The final stage of the assessment process involves a verbal skills assessment and practical skills assessment.

The verbal skills assessment involves the learner being asked a series of questions and being required to answer these questions orally in real time. The questions relate to course content, and there are refresher sections before each question to enable learners to review relevant content. The questions contained in the verbal skills assessment are based on the performance criteria required within the Training Package pertaining to the unit of competency, as well as licensing requirements. At this stage of the assessment, assessors are given criteria that are used to assess learner’s responses to scenario-based questions, and ensure consistency and fairness in assessment. All assessment submitted by learners is recorded.

After assessing the learner’s skill and knowledge the assessor will determine if the learner has satisfied the assessment criteria. If they are deemed not to have satisfied assessment criteria, they will be asked to review relevant learning resources and resubmit required assessment. If after resubmission the assessor is still not satisfied that the learner possesses the skills and knowledge to be deemed competent, the assessor will discuss extra support that may be required.

After completing the verbal skills assessment, the learner is required to complete a practical skills assessment. The practical skills assessment involves the learner demonstrating their ability to fit four specific items of personal protective equipment (PPE) to themselves in real time. Learners will demonstrate their skills and knowledge in real time, using their ability to plan and organise in order to perform the tasks. Learners are made aware of the requirement to possess the relevant items of PPE prior to, during and after enrolment. At this stage of the assessment, assessors are given criteria that are used to assess learner’s practical demonstration of tasks, and ensure consistency and fairness in assessment.

After assessing the learner’s skill and knowledge the assessor will determine if the learner has satisfied the assessment criteria. The learner will be informed of this outcome once a decision has been made. If they are deemed not to have satisfied assessment criteria, they will be asked to review relevant learning resources, as well as the assessment instructional video, and resubmit required assessment. If after resubmission the assessor is still not satisfied that the learner possesses the skills and knowledge to be deemed competent, the assessor will discuss extra support that may be required.

Before commencing the assessment of practical skills, the learner is advised to review the requirements of the assessment and prepare for the demonstration of fitting PPE. PPE is supplied by First Aid Today. The PPE required for the practical skills assessment include:

A hard hat
Eye protection (safety glasses or goggles)
Hearing protection (ear plugs or muffs)
A high visibility retro reflective vest

Upon completion of all assessment, payment of fees, identity and authenticity verification, and USI verification, the learner will be issued their White Card and emailed their Statement of Attainment for the unit of competency CPCWHS1001 - Prepare to work safely in the construction industry. White Cards will be issued the same day as completion.

RTO Closure

First Aid Today guarantees that in the event of RTO closure, all necessary learner records will be forwarded to relevant Government authorities within 14 days of cease of operation. The documentation will be a complete and accurate summary of all learner records gathered since the initial registration and start of operations of First Aid Today. The documentation will list the Statements of Attainment issued to all learners, as well as competencies achieved for each learner.

Records Retained for Audit

First Aid Today retains learner information for the purpose of audits conducted by regulators such as ASQA. All RPL records, policies, procedures, training and assessment strategies, assessment documents, complaints and appeals (and outcomes), evidence of continuous improvement, evidence of internal professional development and maintenance of industry currency, and evidence of learner enrolment as per requirements are kept for the purpose of audit.

Training records are also kept for the purpose of audit. Training records include learner enrolment details, fees, invoices, forms, applications, declarations, proof of identity, all assessment completed, learner misconduct, records of certification presented, transcripts of learner outcomes and Statements of Attainment, if applicable.