As a student, you should expect high-quality training, leading to a qualification that improves your chances of getting the job you want. Training providers differ in how they operate and what they offer: it pays to do your homework before choosing one.

The difference between a Skills for All Training Provider and a registered training organisation

Registered training organisations (RTOs) have been approved by the government to say that they offer training in nationally recognised qualifications to national standards.

Skills for All Training Providers are RTOs who have applied and are part of the Skills for All program. Students who choose to study with them may be eligible for a government funded training place.

Ask yourself

As a learner

  • What are your strengths and weaknesses as a learner? Do you need some help or are you quite independent?
  • What are your circumstances? If you’re working and/or looking after a family, how much study/homework, etc, will you be able fit in outside class times?

Look for a provider that delivers training in a way that suits you. Attending class is an enjoyable part of learning, but in vocational training, many people appreciate the flexibility that comes with less time spent in the classroom (often involving online options), or being able to undertake their studies at times that suit their commitments, including work.

Finally, have you thought about the type of job you want or career you want to pursue? Do you know what qualifications you’ll need? If not, explore Choose a Career.

Now ask the training provider

  • Are they registered to provide courses that will lead to qualifications recognised around Australia – that is, are they a registered training organisation (RTO)?
  • Are they Skills for All Training Providers, who can lead to you having a government funded training place?
  • Do they have experienced staff to provide nationally accredited courses that will be useful to employers and businesses across South Australia?
  • Are they offering courses for vocations that are really in demand at the moment? Do they work closely with industry and employers?
  • Do they have flexible study options to suit your work and life? How much study or homework, will be needed outside class times? Don’t forget to factor in travel times, but don’t simply choose a training provider because it’s close to where you live.
  • Is the training “hands-on” (practical)? How will you be assessed – for example, will there be exams, practical demonstrations, projects?
  • If you are re-entering study after a long time away from school, how supportive are they?

And finally ask about the courses and qualifications they offer

  • Will I get a qualification at the end of my training?
  • What level of qualification are they offering – for example Certificate I, II, III, IV, diploma, degree? What sort of jobs could I get with this qualification?
  • Is the qualification nationally recognised?
  • Can I build on this training or qualification in the future?
  • If I wanted to, could I do this training as an apprenticeship or traineeship and earn while I learn?  See what is an apprenticeship or traineeship?.
  • How long does the qualification take?
  • How many hours per week will I need for the training?
  • When does the training take place? Will it clash with other commitments, for example, when I need to collect my children from school?
  • Will this be considered or affect my training?
  • Is the training broken into terms?
  • How and where is the training run? Will it be in a classroom, workshop, work placement, online learning?
  • Do I need to attend all classes or is it flexible? Can I do some parts online or
    through distance education?
  • Are there any extra fees or costs?

For more questions to ask a training provider, visit the skills.gov.au website.