Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning

If you have completed an equivalent Instructor or Coach course either within Australia or overseas, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

This process can provide:

  • Direct accreditation as an Australian Sailing Instructor or Coach, or
  • Partial recognition of certain competencies within the accreditation framework. 

RPL is available for those seeking accreditation as an Instructor or Coach in any Australian Sailing Program.

Update Australian Sailing Certificates

Some people may hold equivalent powerboat certificates either from previous Australian Sailing programs (e.g. TL3, etc) or overseas qualifications (e.g. Powerboat Level 2). To gain recognition for these certificates and have them appearing on your Australian Sailing profile, please click on one of the following:

Upload Powerboat Handling Certificate Upload Safety Boat Operators Certificate

 
How to Apply for RPL

  1. Review Accreditation Requirements - Before applying for RPL, review the requirements for your chosen Australian Sailing accreditation. 

  2. Submit Your Application - Complete the RPL Application Form, attach all relevant evidence and pay the required $200 fee.

  3. Application Review - Australian Sailing will assess your application to determine if a skills assessment is required.

  4. Skills Assessment (If required) - If a skills assessment is necessary, Australian Sailing will coordinate with you and a Senior Instructor (for Instructors) or a Senior Coach (for Coaches) to arrange a suitable time to undertake the assessment with you. 

  5. Powerboat Assessment (If applicable) - If you require a direct assessment of your Powerboat skills to obtain Australian Sailing Powerboat accreditation, an additional fee may apply. 

  1. Complete All Requirements - Before accreditation is awarded, you must ensure you complete all training requirements necessary for your accreditaiton, including both face-to-face and e-learning courses. 

  1. Instructor or Coach Orientation - If no skills assessment is required, you may be asked to complete an orientation session conducted by Australian Sailing before your accreditation is approved. If an Orientation session is required, Australian Sailing will notify you and coordinate with you to arrange a suitable time to undertake the orientation. 

Overseas Accreditation Recognition

If you hold an equivalent overseas Instructor or Coach accreditation, you may be eligible for RPL. Depending on the accreditation and country of issue, you may need to:

  • Undergo a practical skills assessment, and/or
  • Complete an Instructor or Coach orientation. 

Follow the steps above to initiate the RPL process.

Check your requirements:

United Kingdom - Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Requires Instructor/Coach orientation
Ireland - Irish Sailing Association Requires Instructor/Coach orientation
France - Fédération Française de Voile Require practical assessment by Australian Sailing Senior Instructor/Coach
Canada - Canadian Yachting Association Require practical assessment by Australian Sailing Senior Instructor/Coach
United States of America - US Sailing Require practical assessment by Australian Sailing Senior Instructor/Coach
New Zealand - Yachting New Zealand Require practical assessment by Australian Sailing Senior Instructor/Coach


Other overseas accreditations of a similar standard may be accepted at Australian Sailing’s discretion.
 

If your overseas accreditation has expired under your issuing Nation’s currency policy, you must complete a full Australian Sailing Instructor or Coach course. 

To initate this process, please follow the steps above.

Additional Requirements

Holding an Australian Sailing accreditation qualifies you as an Instructor or Coach. However, to comply with state/territory regulations and the requirements of the organisation you are delivering training for, you must also ensure the following certificates and checks are obtained:

  • Meet all relevant state/territory laws, including child protection requirements (e.g. Working with Children Check).
  • Hold a valid maritime licence (if required for your role or location).
  • Hold a valid marine radio licence (if applicable).
  • Hold a current, recognised Australian First Aid certificate. 

These additional requirements ensure all accredited Instructors and Coaches meet the necessary legal and safety standards when delivering programs in Australia.