One of the key objectives of the Australian Qualifications Framework Council is to facilitate pathways to, and through, formal qualifications.
AQF qualifications link with each other in a range of learning pathways between schools, VET providers and higher education institutions as an individual's learning and career ambitions require.
Through specific policies, the AQF makes a commitment to flexible, transparent and systematic learning pathways and to the removal of boundaries between educational sectors. It therefore encourages cross-sector linkage programs.
In May 2009, the AQF Council endorsed a draft AQF National Policy and Guidelines on Credit Arrangements and is also undertaking research on pathways for students between the vocational education and training and higher education sectors. Details about these projects is available here.
VET delivered in Schools allows schools across the country to offer industry-based units of learning than can contribute to both the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education and Certificate I - IV qualifications.
Articulation and Credit Transfer Arrangements between registered vocational education and training providers and universities involve efficient articulation of programs and maximum credit transfer. The AQF policy, National Guidelines on Cross-Sector Qualification Linkages, is included in the 4th edition of the AQF Implementation Handbook (p91-97).
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process by which credits are granted towards qualifications through assessment of an individual’s knowledge and skills gained through education and training, as well as through work and life experiences. The AQF policy, Recognition of Prior Learning: National Principals and Operational Guidelines, is included in the 4th edition of the AQF Implementation Handbook (p83-89).