Why should an RTO bother to implement this Framework?
Standard 3.1 is explicit that every RTO is expected to have a systematic approach to improvement across the organisation. The RTO Quality Framework is a system that has been developed expressly for this purpose.
From standard 3.1 explanatory notes:
You can develop your own approach or adopt management practices based on and/or certified by recognised quality assurance bodies. The primary objective is to ensure that you have effective control over your operations so that you can continuously improve your services and consistently operate in accordance with the AQTF 2007 Essential Standards for Registration.
How do I use these templates?
We suggest you assemble a Quality Group and hold a workshop to complete the 3 templates. Then have a staff induction session before implementing the system across your organisation. Use the Self Assessment Instrument to create some baseline data about where you are currently placed, then self assess again in about 6 months to see if there are noticeable improvements.
Has the RTO Quality Framework been validated?
Yes. There was a reference group of RTOs who provided input and tested it against their existing processes before release.
Is it likely to be accepted by an auditor?
AQTF2007 adopts a flexible approach to proving compliance with standards. The standards focus on the quality of services and outcomes being achieved for clients. At audit you will have the opportunity to show how you do this.
User’s Guide: page 6
The standards…allow RTOs some flexibility in demonstrating how they are meeting clients’ needs in the context of the scope and nature of their business. Instead of asking, ‘Have we got a process in place?’ the RTO can ask ‘What tells us we’re doing well?’ and ‘What can we do better?’
What is the theoretical basis that underpins this Framework?
The ADRI cycle is a globally recognised continuous improvement methodology that is widely used by services based organisations such as universities. It is also the basis for the Australian Business Excellence Framework. The ADRI cycle is set out in the Quality Approach document.
Can I amend the documents?
Absolutely. These documents will become part of your continuous improvement process and so you will need to change them as you find improvement opportunities.
How do I know that it will fit the size and scope of our organisation?
The system has been designed so that it will work for an organisation of any size. The difference will be in the number and complexity of procedures and supporting documentation that you create to support the system. For example, procedures for managing records in a TAFE College will be more complex than procedures for managing records in a two person RTO.
Can we use our old policies and procedures?
Absolutely. Slot them into the appropriate business process step. We recommned you use this as an opportunity to streamline procedures and key documents.
Can we purchase the Strategy documents with content filled in, so that we don’t have to do it?
The three Strategy documents are part of the set of materials for the quality system that can be purchased from ChalkPort. Order Form.
We think RTO Quality Framework online would be useful for our organisation. Does it contain all the materials?
Yes, it contains all the materials set out in a way that encourages trainers and assessors to contribute to the quality system. If you would like to order the RTO Quality Framework materials online, please complete the Order Form.
Will this system help us prepare for the Excellence Criteria?
The Excellence Criteria also draw on the ADRI cycle to evaluate RTOs, so this system will be a useful starting point if you are considering applying for Excellence assessment.