How does RPL work?
If you’re an experienced skipper with prior learning, experience, or qualifications, you may be eligible for recognition of prior learning (RPL).
Our team will evaluate your skills, experience and qualifications based on the Maritime NZ competency framework and be able to provide necessary training or guidance in areas you may be missing.
Once you’ve fulfilled the requirements of the competency framework, you’ll receive your course certificate and you’ll be ready to sit the final exam with Maritime NZ. You’ll still need to meet all the other Maritime NZ application requirements, which you can see here.
Note: You must pass a medical and eyesight test and be a “fit and proper person”. Call us, or check out the Maritime NZ website for details. This training will help you complete your MNZ Training and Record Book and prepare you for the SRL Oral Exam. It is not an NZQA course, so while it’s a bit more expensive than others, we can be a lot more flexible in the delivery to make sure it’s engaging and the most efficient use of your time.
The RPL process explained
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Is RPL the right option for me?
If you’re relatively new to the maritime industry, RPL is not for you. It is not a shortcut to getting your skipper’s ticket.
Rather, it’s a way to recognise extensive prior skipper training or experience. Because there’s no point in repeating what you’ve already done or learning what you already know.
Please note, this is more expensive than the SRL as there is no funding available for this process.
RPL could be a good option for you if you…
Have a comparable overseas skipper’s ticket that’s not valid in NZ
Not all overseas tickets are directly recognised in New Zealand, but that doesn’t mean your qualifications don’t count.
If you have a higher or comparable overseas certificate, we can assess and may be able to recognise your skills based on the competency framework.
Have completed previous skipper training courses
If you have extensive maritime knowledge and a sharp skillset gained through previous formal learning, RPL may be a good option for you.
Talk to us to find out which related courses and skills can be counted towards your skipper’s ticket.
Have extensive practical experience working as a skipper
Practical experience is highly valued in the maritime industry, so even informal learning can be recognised.
If you have extensive experience working as a skipper or performing key skipper tasks, we can assess and recognise your relevant skills.