Thank you for choosing to enrol on a course with Pest Education Services & Training (PEST).  PEST is committed to high standards in the provision of vocational education and training (VET) programs in Pest Management. PEST is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO Code: 2514) with the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA).  We comply with the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTO’s) 2015 and comply with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). We offer Nationally Recognised units of competence and the Certificate III in Urban Pest Management as specified on our Scope of Registration.  This information is publicly available at any time on www.training.gov.au

We are pleased to take part in your learning journey.  Together we will aim for an outcome that provides the best experience possible to attain your learning goals.  We will achieve this by both parties working together.

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOUR TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT

PEST is committed to providing quality training and assessment services. We are responsive to needs and continue to develop products and services to meet those diverse needs of clients by providing flexible learning opportunities.  We achieve this by:
1.     Providing training and assessment services that;
a.     Are developed in consultation with industry
b.     Are based on the criteria specified in the Nationally recognised units of competency.
c.     Incorporate relevant Laws, Regulations and Australian Standards.
2.     Ensuring training and assessment is delivered by trainers and assessors who:
a.     Have the necessary training and assessment competencies as determined by the Standards for RTO’s 2015, and
b.     Have the relevant vocational competencies at least to the level being delivered or assessed, and
c.     Can demonstrate current industry skills directly relevant to the training/assessment being undertaken, and
d.     Continue to develop VET knowledge and skills as well as their industry currency and trainer/assessor competence.
3.     Delivery and assessment methods are client focussed. We meet the specific training requirements to best suit the unit of competency, while giving full consideration to the learning style of the learner. A number of delivery methods will be used throughout the training to help you achieve the necessary skills. Learning is a partnership that involves participation from all involved. Delivery methods will be outlined on the course information flyer.
4.     PEST offers flexible delivery in various forms of delivery to accommodate the varying needs of learners. Most current courses and all new courses are offered in a face-to-face environment, via correspondence, or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or a combination of these.
5.     The assessment process is flexible, with adjustments made to suit the context and/or specific needs of the learner.
6.     Assessments are participatory and respect learners rights by allowing them to decide if they are ready to be assessed, to appeal the assessment decision if needed, to a confidential assessment and to access their own assessment records.
7.     Ensuring assessment including Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
a.     Meets the requirements of the relevant Training Package or accredited course.
b.     Is conducted in accordance with the principles of assessment and the rules of evidence.
c.     Meets workplace and, where relevant, regulatory requirements.
d.     Is systematically validated.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Students who consider they already possess the competencies identified in all or part of any course/qualification offered by PEST may seek recognition.  RPL is a method of assessing if you have evidence of competency for a particular unit of competency that you are enrolled in. It is important to remember that RPL is an assessment process not an assumption of competence.

RPL is the determination, on an individual basis, of the competencies obtained by a client through previous formal training, work experience, and/or life experience.  RPL therefore determines the consequent advanced standing to which the client is entitled in relation to a course/qualification. The main focus of RPL is what has been learned rather than how, where or when it was learned. RPL focuses on both the demonstration of competence and the currency of that competence to industry standards. Students wishing to undertake RPL should contact our office to obtain an application form.

National Recognition
PEST is committed to recognising the AQF qualifications and Statements of Attainment issued by other Registered Training Organisations (RTOs). National recognition comes into effect when a Statement of Attainment or qualification provided by a learner has the same national competency codes as those that form part of the training and assessment program within which the learner is enrolled or is intending to enrol. Students are required to formally apply for National Recognition. Students wishing to apply for National Recognition should contact our office to obtain an application form.

Client Needs Risk Assessment
PEST establishes the needs of clients, and delivers services to meet these needs.

1.     Licencing
All competency based training provided by PEST leads to licencing.  The Department of Health, Western Australia, Pesticide Safety Section is responsible for all licencing of pesticide operators in Western Australia. On occasion the Department of Health will request, and we will supply information on Candidates enrolment status. Please advise us is you do not wish this to occur. For more information on courses for licencing please visit our website, www.pesteducation.com.au

2.     Language, Literacy and Numeracy
PEST assesses the Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) needs of all learners and makes appropriate concessions for language, literacy and numeracy issues of clients where these concessions do not compromise the requirements of the relevant Training Package and the integrity, equity and fairness of assessment.  For students where English is a second language, electronic translators will not be permitted in the classroom. Advice is given to all clients on the appropriate action if there is a need to update literacy and numeracy skills. PEST can assist in providing additional development prior to completing your enrolment.

CPSISC has used the Department of Industry's Workplace English Language and Literacy (WELL) Program to develop a number of Training Package resources to support learners who may require some assistance with language, literacy and numeracy (LLN).  The aim of the WELL Program is to provide workers with English language, literacy and numeracy skills to meet their employment and training needs. Students who require more information should contact our CEO.

3.     Special Needs
Students intending to enrol for training with PEST are requested to advise us, prior to enrolment, if they have any physical or other medically diagnosed impairment which may contribute to literacy or numeracy difficulties. For example dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, ADHD, etc. These difficulties may adversely affect their ability to successfully undertake training and assessment. Students with disabilities or impairments are encouraged to discuss and share medical reports and recommendations which may assist us modify the learning tools or assessments which are necessary or would assist them in the performance of their studies.  In collaboration with the learner, we will assess the potential for the participant to successfully complete the training which may include flexible delivery options to optimise the ease and benefit of the participants learning.

Assessment
Assessment is in integral part of your learning if you wish to successfully complete training and be awarded competence in a unit of competence or qualification. PEST is committed to ensuring valid and reliable assessment methods. Throughout the training program you will be assessed to see if you have gained the necessary skills and knowledge to achieve the unit of competence or qualification. Assessments are evidence based requiring a learner to demonstrate their competence.

Your trainer/assessor is required to ensure that the assessment tasks you undertake meet the national principles of assessment and rules of evidence and must base their assessment decision solely on the evidence provided. Assessment methods will be outlined on the course information flyer.

Please note: Certificates and Statement of Attainment will only be awarded to those candidates who successfully complete all assessment requirements for a course.

Ambiguity in assessment conditions
Should the assessment conditions in a unit of competency be ambiguous, PEST will always interpret the assessment condition based on the standards set by our regulator.

Workplace Assessment
If your course requires a workplace assessment, in Western Australia this can only be booked once all course theory work has been completed, candidates have supplied a copy of their provisional licence and the company has supplied a copy of their company licence.

Record Keeping
Pest Education Services & Training keeps complete and accurate records of the attendance and progress of clients, as well as financial records that reflect all payments and charges and the balance due and provides copies of these records to clients on request. Candidates are required to keep a copy of all work submitted for assessment. No responsibility is taken for lost work.

Certificates
There are three types of certificates issued by PEST. Certificates can only be awarded in accordance with our approved scope.

1.     Qualification
Issued under the Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) for nationally recognised training. This qualification is the Certificate III in Urban Pest Management.

2.     Record of Results
Accompanies a qualification issued under the Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) for nationally recognised training. This document supplements the qualification listing all units of competency achieved.

3.     Statement of Attainment (SOA)
Issued under the Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) for nationally recognised training. Issued when a client is deemed competent in specific units of competency but where not all units making up a full qualification have been achieved. Minimum achievement for a SOA is one unit of competency. You can request a SOA at any time during your training.

4.     Authenticity of documents
All certificates are created and printed only once and are individually signed by the CEO. We do not copy, pdf or email certificates under any circumstances. If a certificate is lost, a client must complete Form C7-5 Certificate Request. Charges apply.

PEST will issue Certificates and Statements of Attainment within thirty (30) days of being deemed competent in the units you have studied. Certificates will only be posted to the person or entity that is nominated as financing the course at the nominated postal address, as advised in Section 8 of this enrolment form. The onus is on the learner to ensure their address details are correct and current.  Certificates will not be sent to other parties, without the expressed prior written permission from the financier.

Revoking qualifications and statements of attainment

PEST reserves the right to revoke certification of an AQF qualification or statement of attainment issued. Circumstances under which credentials may be revoked include:
§  PEST has been instructed to do so by its Regulator
§  PEST has been instructed to do so by a Licencing Authority
§  PEST has detected that information printed on the credential is incorrect
§  PEST has determined that a decision made by one of its assessors is invalid and that not revoking the credential may have serious consequences for the student or their employer.
§  PEST has detected that a student gained their credential dishonestly (e.g. through engaging in plagiarism)

Where a credential has been revoked, this will be noted on the relevant student record and the student will be asked to return the credential that was issued to them. Where applicable, the Unique Student Identifier (USI) Registrar will also be informed.

Course Fees
PEST has developed a fair and equitable process for determining course cost, fee refunds and payment options. Course fees and other charges are outlined in the course information flyer or as negotiated for remote work.  Once your enrolment has been accepted and an invoice raised, fees are payable. We must receive your payment to confirm your place on a course. Payment may be made by cash or electronic funds transfer.  Certificates are not released until all final invoices for all assessment services are made in full. 

Refund Policy
Should PEST be unable to complete training and assessment for any reason, a full refund will apply. No refunds will be granted once a course has commenced. No refunds will be granted for work negotiated at remote sites. Clients who wish to terminate their enrolment must seek the approval from the CEO stating the reason for terminating the course in writing. An administration fee will apply. The fee will be will be determined once the hourly rate of $210 plus GST or 20% of the total course fee, whichever is the greatest, is deducted for all work undertaken on your behalf.

 RTO Cancellation of courses
PEST reserves the right to cancel a scheduled course if insufficient enrolments are confirmed prior to course commencement. Students already booked in these courses will be notified in writing.

 Training Guarantee
Once a learner has been enrolled on a course and commenced study in their chosen qualification or course, we then provide a guarantee to the learner that they will be able to finish the course. If required, employers funding learner training must make their own arrangements with regard to reimbursement of training costs with the individual learner should they leave their employment during or after training. All changes to enrolments must be approved by the CEO. Should additional services be required, an hourly rate of $210 plus GST will apply.

 Student Records
PEST maintains an individual learner file for every learner who undertakes any form of training and assessment with us. This file contains records regarding your personal details provided to us, any training and assessment undertaken and completed. This file is available to you.

 In accordance with Privacy laws and confidentiality requirements, your file is kept in a secure electronic file. Those who can access your information include PEST personnel for training and assessment purposes and Auditors assigned by the TAC for quality auditing purposes.  No other person/learner can and will have access to your personal learner file without your prior written permission.  If you would like access to your personal records simply contact the CEO in writing at any time.

 Privacy
PEST is bound by the Privacy Act and respects learners, staff and trainers’ right to privacy.  Information is collected from learners upon initial enquiry in order to send out course information, and is collected at enrolment and during the provision of the training and assessment services. PEST may use personal information to advise learners of upcoming events and training course, for marketing and research purposes.

PEST collects, analyses and acts on relevant feedback on services provided through surveys is collected. This feedback assists us improve the quality of the services and training.  This information is treated confidentially.  PEST will only disclose information to other parties as stated above, or as otherwise allowed under the Privacy Act 1988. Our privacy statement may be revised from time to time and is available on our website; www.pesteducation.com.au

 Student Complaints and Appeals
All learners have the right to express a concern or problem they may be experiencing when undergoing training. PEST provides the appropriate mechanisms and services for learners to have complaints and appeals addressed efficiently and effectively.  All complaints and appeals are recorded, acknowledged and dealt with fairly, efficiently and effectively.

 If you, or any other associated party*, have a complaint against the RTO, its trainers, assessors, other staff or another learner of the RTO, please notify the CEO, Mark Sheppard.  Complaints will be handled according to the B2.1 Complaints Policy which is available in the reception area of our training room.  A copy of this policy is available from the CEO at any time.

 If you, or any other associated party*, require a review of decisions, including assessment decisions, we will provide a referral to an appropriate third party where you can seek further assistance.  Appeals will be handled according to the B2.2 Appeals Policy which is available in the reception area of our training room.  A copy of this policy is available from the CEO at any time. *An associated party may be the person or entity who financed the course, a licencing authority or regulator.

 Legislation in Training
PEST monitors relevant legislation which impacts on all training programs. PEST includes information regarding legislation to learners in their learner manuals for a particular course.  PEST maintains a healthy and effective learning environment for learners by;

§  Treating all persons with respect
§  Displaying courtesy and consideration to all
§  Treating all persons professionally, fairly and equally
§  Acting with integrity

 Located in the reception of our training room are PEST’s policies relating to:
§  Access and Equity
§  Duty of Care
§  Equal Opportunity
§  Anti-discrimination
§  Prevention of Harassment, Vilification and Bullying
§  Sexual harassment
§  Complaints and Appeals
Copies of these policies are available from the CEO.

 Work Health and Safety
PEST is committed to providing a safe and healthy learning and work environment. PEST encourages all persons to regard accident prevention and safety as a collective and individual responsibility.

 PEST recognises its responsibility under the Work Health and Safety Act and related Regulations. The CEO has responsibility for ensuring the health and safety of staff, learners, contractors and visitors. This includes:

§  Provide and maintain safe plant, equipment and systems of work.
§  Provide, monitor and maintain systems for safe use, handling, storage and transportation of plant, equipment and substances.
§  Maintain the workplace in a safe and healthy condition.
§  Provide adequate facilities to protect the welfare of all employees.
§  Provide information, training and supervision for all staff and contractors, helping them to integrate Health and Safety into their work areas and roles.
§  Provide information, where relevant, to learners, allowing them to learn in a safe and healthy manner.
§  Check Health and Safety system compliance via ongoing auditing.
§  Integrate continuous improvement into OSH performance.

 PEST’s full Health and Safety Policy is located in the reception of our training room.  A copy of this policy is available from the CEO at any time.

 Duty of Care
Under Occupational Safety and Health legislation learners have a duty of care to maintain a safe environment for both themselves and their fellow learners.  Should you be involved in an accident which results in personal injury and/or damage to equipment or facilities, notify your trainer immediately.  If you have a personal health condition which may become critical while attending the course, please advise PEST so we can provide support or treatment should an emergency arise.  Emergency procedures and exit plans must be followed.  Please see the plan detailed in this document.

COVID-19 coronavirus: COVID Safe Principles and Safety Precautions (WA Only) PEST will provide training facilities good hygiene, additional sanitisation, 1.5m physical distancing and contact tracing registers. This will ensure that if new cases do occur, the risk of the transmission of the COVID-19 infection is minimised. Prior to training, learners will be required to complete an Individual Declaration for COVID-19, comply with our physical distancing requirements and agree to having a temperature reading prior to entering the training room. If a learner refuses to comply, they will not be able to attend training. PEST will periodically update our COVID Policy and Procedure in line with the Government of Western Australia guidelines. Should this information outdate our Policy and Procedure at any point in time, the Government of Western Australia guidelines will prevail.