Quality Assurance and Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF)

MARCSTA utilises management systems which meet the specifications of the accreditation authority and relevant national industry competency standards as well as all regulatory and customer requirements to fulfill the key function of providing:

• a system of continuous improvement in quality client service;
• a safe and healthy working environment for all personnel and course participants; and
• efficient, productive and technically expert training services to meet or exceed customer expectations.

This is achieved by:

• provision of recognised training (providing clients with confidence that MARCSTA consistently delivers quality products and services);
• maintenance of MARCSTA's Registered Training Organisation status to ensure these products and services continually meet or exceed client expectations through meeting all registration assessment standards and continuously identifying and acting upon opportunities for improvement; and
• application of a continuous improvement system which is reviewed regularly through internal audits.
  It is through the sum of many small improvements to our system that MARCSTA ensures the delivery of a relevant and professional service to our clients and course participants.

MARCSTA Compliance with AQTF

The Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF) is a set of nationally agreed standards to ensure the quality of vocational education and training services throughout Australia.

The standards of the AQTF are in three parts:

Standard 1 The Registered Training Organisation provides quality training and assessment across all of its operations.

Elements

1.1	The RTO collects, analyses and acts on relevant data for continuous improvement of training and assessment.
1.2	Strategies for training and assessment meet the requirements for the relevant Training Package or accredited course and are developed in consultation with industry.
1.3	Staff, facilities, equipment and training and assessment materials used by the RTO are consistent with the requirements of the Training Package or accredited course and the RTO's own training and assessment strategies.
1.4	Training and assessment is delivered by trainers and assessors who: (a) have the necessary training and assessment competencies as determined by the National Quality Council or its successors (b) have the relevant vocational competencies at least to the level being delivered or assessed (c) can demonstrate current industry skills directly relevant to the training/assessment being undertaken (d) continue to develop their Vocational Education and Training (VET) knowledge and skills as well as their industry currency and trainer/assessor competence.
1.5	Assessment including Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): (a) meets the requirements of the relevant Training Package or accredited course. (b) is conducted in accordance with the principles of assessment and the rules of evidence (c) meets workplace and, where relevant, regulatory requirements (d) is systematically validated.

Standard 2 The Registered Training Organisation adheres to principles of access and equity and maximises outcomes for its clients.

Elements

2.1	The RTO establishes the needs of the clients, and delivers services to meet these needs.
2.2	The RTO continuously improves client services by collecting, analysing and acting on relevant data.
2.3	Before clients enrol or enter into an agreement, the RTO informs them about the training, assessment and support services to be provided, and about their rights and obligations.
2.4	Employers and other parties who contribute to each learner's training and assessment are engaged in the development, delivery and monitoring of training and assessment.
2.5	Learners receive training, assessment and support services that meet their individual needs.
2.6   2.7	Learners have timely access to current and accurate records of their participation and progress. The RTO provides appropriate mechanisms and services for learners to have complaints and appeals addressed efficiently and effectively.

Standard 3 Management systems are responsive to the needs of clients, staff and stakeholders, and the environment in which the Registered Training Organisation operates.

Elements

3.1	The RTO's management of its operations ensures clients receive the services detailed in their agreement with RTO.
3.2	The RTO uses a systematic and continuous improvement approach to the management of operations.
3.3     3.4	The RTO monitors training and/or assessment services provided on its behalf to ensure that it complies with all aspects of the AQTF Essential Conditions and Standards for Continuing Registration . The RTO manages records to ensure their accuracy and integrity.

In general, the evidence to show MARCSTA's compliance with these AQTF standards will be found in:

• MARCSTA's Policies and Procedures Manual;
• Guides for Training Providers;
• Training manuals;
• MARCSTA's web site; and
• Accounting documents.

For any queries regarding MARCSTA compliance with AQTF, please contact the Training Manager on (08) 9355 1400.