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Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning

What is Recognised 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, including:

  • Dinghy
  • Keelboat
  • Windsurfing
  • Wing
  • Powerboat
  • Coaching Programs 

Before applying for RPL, review the requirements for your chosen Australian Sailing accreditation here. 

Apply for RPL

To apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), complete the RPL application form via the link below, attach all relevant evidence, and pay the required fee. 

RPL Application Form  

Once your application is submitted, Australian Sailing will review it and determine if further assessment is required. 

How to Apply for RPL

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

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

  3. 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. 

  1. 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 complete all requirements as stated on the accreditation requirements page for your chosen accreditation here, including completing any necessary 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. 

International 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. 

Recognised Overseas Accreditations

Accreditations from the following nations may qualify for direct RPL accreditation, requiring only an Instructor or Coach orientation:

  • United Kingdom – Royal Yachting Association (RYA) qualifications
  • Ireland – Irish Sailing Association qualifications 

For accreditations from the following nations, a practical assessment by an Australian Sailing Senior Instructor (for Instructors) or Senior Coach (for Coaches) is required:

  • France – Fédération Française de Voile
  • Canada – Canadian Yachting Association
  • United States of America – US Sailing
  • New Zealand – Yachting New Zealand 

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. 

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.

Further Information

For more details on the RPL process, please contact training@sailing.org.au.