Navigating the Complex World of Registered Training Organisations (RTOs)
In Australia’s ever-evolving landscape of registered training organisations (RTOs), understanding the nuances that matter can be a meaningful change.
We had the privilege to sit down with Dr Tracy Hopkins, a seasoned RTO consultant who has left her mark on the industry.
With a wealth of experience, having managed her RTO for 15 years and now consulting for others, Tracy’s insights offer a valuable glimpse into the heart of RTO operations.
RTO Consultancy: A Balancing Act for Excellence
From RTO Owner to Consultant: Navigating the ASQA & CRICOS Landscape
Tracy’s journey through the RTO consultancy landscape began with selling her RTO in 2017. Since then, she has lent her expertise to various RTOs, assisting them with ASQA and CRICOS registrations, due diligence, and operational enhancements.
Tracy underscores that her consultancy services are driven by a desire to help RTOs achieve excellence. “I’ve been consulting in that space part-time or during my free time,” Tracy explains, emphasising her commitment to guiding RTOs toward success.
Diverse Challenges, Common Goals: RTOs of All Shapes and Sizes
From Small Beginnings to Flourishing Giants: The Varied RTO Landscape
RTOs come in all shapes and sizes, each with challenges and aspirations. Tracy categorises RTOs into three groups:
- Small-scale RTO grappling with limited resources
- RTO owned by individuals without prior experience
- Massive RTO boasting extensive scopes and resources
Small-scale RTOs with Limited Resources
Common Issues: The primary challenges for small-scale RTOs revolve around limited finances and resources. Owners often wear multiple hats, from handling compliance and HR to managing day-to-day operations, resulting in exhaustion and burnout.
Advice: Tracy emphasises the importance of staffing in overcoming these challenges. Small RTOs may seek additional help, outsource specific tasks, or collaborate with experts in areas where they lack experience. Efficient resource allocation and prioritisation are crucial to maximise their limited resources.
RTOs Owned by Individuals Without Prior Experience
Common Issues: These RTOs may struggle with a lack of expertise in running an RTO. Owners may have limited knowledge of compliance requirements, which can pose compliance risks.
Advice: Tracy suggests that education and guidance are critical for this group. Owners should be open to learning about RTO regulations and best practices. Seeking consultation and training can help them bridge their knowledge gaps and ensure they operate in compliance with laws.
Massive RTOs with Extensive Scopes and Resources
Common Issues: Larger RTOs with abundant resources may face fewer financial constraints, but their challenges can lie in managing the complexity and scale of their operations. Ensuring all stakeholders are aligned and responsive to advice can be challenging.
Advice: Tracy points out that these RTOs have the potential for significant growth. To succeed, they must be willing to adapt and take advice seriously. Effective communication and collaboration among owners and staff are crucial. Leveraging their resources efficiently can help them expand their reach and impact.
Tracy’s deep understanding of these categories enables her to provide tailored guidance to address their unique needs.
“Manpower is key,” Tracy emphasises, highlighting the challenges faced by small RTOs where owners often juggle multiple roles, leading to exhaustion. On the other end of the spectrum, RTOs with abundant resources have the potential to achieve significant growth.
Additionally, Tracy mentions that RTOs operating in the domestic and international markets face distinct challenges:
- Domestic Market RTOs: Limited funding from state governments can restrict their enrolment of domestic students. It’s essential to secure adequate funding to support their operations and growth.
- CRICOS RTOs (Dealing with International Students): These RTOs have more scope due to the international student market. However, they also face challenges related to immigration and student visas, which can limit the number of international students they can enrol in compared to higher education institutions.
RTOs’ challenges vary based on their size, ownership experience, and market focus. Tracy’s advice underscores the importance of understanding these challenges and taking appropriate actions, such as seeking help, education, and efficient resource management, to overcome them and achieve their goals.
RTOs and the Changing Tides of Compliance and Quality
Striking a Balance: Business and Compliance in the RTO World
The ever-present need marks the landscape of RTOs for compliance, but Tracy underscores the importance of balancing business aspects with compliance requirements.
“It’s about providing excellence and quality outcomes,” she insists, challenging the notion that RTOs should merely focus on ticking compliance boxes.
She advocates for a holistic approach that considers the needs of students and staff, fostering a conducive environment for learning and growth.
Tracy further delves into the changing standards within the RTO world. She notes that recent shifts in standards highlight the interconnectedness of business outcomes and educational quality. She hopes these changes will encourage RTOs to prioritise compliance and comprehensive education, elevating the sector’s reputation and impact.
Navigating the Path of Progress: Challenges and Opportunities
The Unseen Impact of External Factors on RTO Success
Drawing from her experience, Tracy emphasises the critical role of the external environment in shaping an RTO’s trajectory.
She shares a compelling anecdote from her PhD research days, where she observed the ripple effects of structural changes in the mining sector on various businesses. This lesson reminds RTOs to remain vigilant about external factors impacting their operations and plan accordingly.
She recalled when the mining industry collapsed in Western Australia, “A lot of people went jobless, and many businesses connected to them could not get any more training from them because everything was tightened up. So, that gives you an idea that the external environment impacts the law, and that regulations all affect RTOs. So, need to be wary of that.”
Tracy also highlights the evolving marketing landscape, suggesting that word of mouth and the quality of outcomes play pivotal roles in filling classrooms. As RTOs adapt to the post-pandemic era, Tracy urges them to seize the opportunities presented by reopening international markets for students.
The Classroom vs. Online Debate: A Vocational Perspective
Blended Learning in the VET (Vocational Education and Training) World: Bridging Theory and Practice
In VET, Tracy firmly believes that classroom-based learning retains its significance. “VET is getting ready for employment,” she stresses, emphasising the hands-on nature of many vocational skills. While online components have their place, Tracy asserts that the classroom environment fosters essential practical experiences that online education can’t replicate.
Tracy’s insights challenge the notion that technology could completely replace the role of educators. She underlines the irreplaceable value of experienced teachers, whose nuanced understanding of their subject matter and ability to inspire and empower students go far beyond a search engine’s capabilities.
Compliant Learning Resources: A Game-Changer for RTOs
In the VET industry, having access to high-quality and compliant learning resources is a cornerstone for success. Tracy’s perspective on Compliant Learning Resources sheds light on the importance of quality materials in education.
“They are pretty comprehensive; they are literally compliant, yes. So, you guys got more or less everything in there,” Tracy says when asked why she recommends Compliant Resources to her clients.
Her emphasis on comprehensive and detail-oriented resources highlights the significance of content that leaves no stone unturned, ensuring learners receive a holistic education.
“There are, of course, some units that you guys do not have, but you’re happy to help outsource or resource it from other places for the client, which is great.”
Tracy’s recognition of the flexibility and adaptability offered by Compliant Learning Resources highlights their dedication to meeting the unique needs of each RTO. This flexibility ensures RTOs can access the necessary resources to enhance their educational offerings regardless of the specific requirements.
“I’ve been working with Anthony, and he has been top-notch. He’s always there. He’s prompt. He helps as much as possible and his data support as much as possible. I just don’t do not have anything, you know, he’s supportive. It’s like dealing with a premium client, you know. The service that I get it has been pretty good. So, it’s really nice to have that sort of support. So, thank you,” Tracy adds.
Tracy’s commendation of Anthony and the support received from Compliant Learning Resources signifies a partnership built on reliability and excellence. Her experience with the team highlights their commitment to providing top-notch assistance, support, and resources. Tracy’s endorsement is a testament to the calibre of service that elevates RTOs to new heights.
In Tracy’s own words, her collaboration with Compliant Learning Resources exemplifies dealing with a “premium client service,” reflecting the gold standard that RTOs should aspire to provide in their educational journey. This endorsement underscores the pivotal role that quality learning resources play in shaping the success of RTOs and the educational experiences of their students.
Conclusion: Crafting a Vision for RTO Excellence
Unveiling the Future of RTOs: A Vision of Excellence
Dr Tracy Hopkins’ invaluable insights provide a comprehensive understanding of what matters most to RTOs in Australia. From managing challenges and compliance to prioritising quality education, her experience underscores the multifaceted nature of the RTO landscape.
As the education sector evolves, Tracy’s advice serves as a guiding light for RTOs striving to make a meaningful impact on learners and the workforce.
In Tracy’s words, “It’s about providing excellence,” a principle that will undoubtedly shape the future of Australian RTOs.
Take your training delivery to new heights with quality and comprehensive RTO materials. Get in touch with us for a demo. For your RTO’s consulting needs, contact Dr Tracy Hopkins here.
