How do I choose a training provider for my course?
Some training providers claim to be the best in the business or have the cheapest fees. So how do you pick one that is reputable and worth your time? Let’s have a look into how you should choose a training provider suitable for YOU to give you the best outcomes. Because choosing the best place to study can be a hard decision, we have put together some things to ask and look out for when doing your search.
Years of operation
The first thing you would want to look into is when this RTO was established. Newer RTO’s might not have had the experience of teaching the qualification you are interested in, and you could be the first student they have enrolled. While this might not be a negative experience for you – It is good to keep in mind the experience and expertise of the staff and trainers involved and compliance history of an RTO.
Courses on offer.
Have a look at the courses the training organisations offers. The RTO may specialise in a select for courses or industries. This may mean they have strong connections within the community within these industries and content experts as part of their teaching team. Bigger doesn’t always mean better in terms of quality.
Reviews/feedback and national survey results.
Once you are comfortable with the experience of the RTO – Look into their reviews. Google reviews provide an opportunity for students to provide feedback and share their experience. Read the reviews and find out what it is about this training organisation that keeps people coming back. On an annual basis The Department of Education sends every student studying with training organisation a survey. This survey is then compared to other RTOs in the state and a state average is produced.
It is important as a student that you get to hear from other students and their experience with the organisation to ensure you will be supported throughout your whole course and not just at enrolment time.
Cost of the course
The cost of courses can vary from provider to provider. You may see training providers advertise $0 course fees in your search and the same course maybe be $400 at another or $8000 at another. So, what do you need to know in terms of course fees? Research or ask the provider the below questions:
· Is this course government funded? Government funding means that the government will pay for the course fee, and you might only need to pay a tuition fee.
· What is the total and final fee I would have to pay? This gives the training organisation to give you a clear final figure for your out-of-pocket course fees.
· If the course is $0 to enrol – Does that mean the organisation will apply for a VET Student loan for me?
The VET Student Loans (VSL) program assists eligible students pay tuition fees for approved higher-level (diploma and above) vocational education and training (VET) courses, when studying at VET Student Loans approved course providers. This may mean when you finish the course you are left with a debt of thousands of dollars. Research and find a training organisation that won’t sign you into a debt. Government funded spots and government student loans are 2 different supports available. Make sure to choose the right one.
Placement
Some courses require students to undertake placement in a workplace under the guidance of experienced mentors. If your course has a compulsory placement requirement, it is most helpful if your training institution have a placement co-ordinator who finds your placement for you. Training organisation may already have placement contracts in placement with organisation which can make it very hard for individuals to find their own placement. Training organisations with contracts in place make it a lot easier for students to have their placement organised for them.
Support
Have a look into the type of support offered by the organisation to help students. If you are looking at studying distance based or online – Ask What this means in terms of contact with your trainer? Are there any live online session you could join? Tutoring of an evening if you need help? Support from the organisation throughout your whole course is essential to keep you motivated and focused.
FYI Training has been operating for 17 years and have chosen to remain small and focus on Early childhood and Community services industries. Our survey results and student feedback shows above state average in all areas and continue to provide an exceptional service to its community. FYI Training maintains low course fees with no student loans to ensure that students passionate about the industries we teach, have the opportunity to do so. Our placement co-ordinator works with you and organises your placement for you. At no stage throughout your course, whether studying online, night class, distance based or face to face will you be left with no support as your trainers are available and dedicated to ensuring you receive the support you need.
Contact us on 1300 884 133 or email us at info@fyitraining.com.au
