Polytech Helps Queenstowners

Polytech Helps Queenstowners Turn Work Experience Into Qualifications

Turning work experience into an academic qualification is now possible for Queenstowners and is particularly relevant for those seeking a change in their job or lifestyle.

A public information session introducing Otago Polytechnic’s world-leading Centre for Assessment of Prior Learning (CAPL) to Queenstown is to be held at Queenstown Resort College tomorrow (10 February) starting at 4.30pm.

The Centre works with its candidates to assess working knowledge, skill levels and experience towards an academic qualification. If further learning is required then a course of study is planned to complete the qualification. The programmes are designed for busy people with study designed to fit around work and home commitments and there is no requirement to travel to the polytechnic’s Dunedin or Cromwell campuses.

CAPL manager Kris Bennett says Assessment of Prior Learning (APL) is an internationally-recognised, academically valid way of recognising the understandings that people have gained through their experience.

“The Centre offers people a cost effective way of proving their abilities. We believe it has particular relevance to Queenstown where many people have learned on the job and acquired high level skill sets that aren’t easily reflected when they move on.

“We also believe the timing is spot on. In a recession people move around and look for new opportunities. This offers them a way of demonstrating their capabilities with a recognised academic qualification. It also offers an invaluable opportunity for experienced adults to reengage with education.”

Last year more than 120 people achieved New Zealand Qualifications Authority recognised qualifications across more than 30 subject areas. Costs can run from a few hundred dollars up to $5,000.

ENDS

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