Vocational Education and Training (VET) plays a vital role in shaping Australia’s workforce by providing practical, skills-based education aligned with industry needs. As a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), supporting students throughout their learning journey is not just about delivering qualifications—it's about ensuring that students are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive in their chosen careers.
In this article, we will look at the importance of student support in VET and provide practical strategies for RTOs to enhance their support services.
Why does Student Support Matter?
Unlike traditional academic pathways, VET focuses on hands-on learning that prepares students for the workforce. VET students come from diverse backgrounds, including school leavers, career changers, and individuals looking to upskill or reskill. For these students, transitioning into vocational training can be challenging, especially if they have competing commitments such as work, family, or language barriers.
By providing robust support services, RTOs can help students overcome challenges, improve retention rates, and ultimately ensure successful outcomes. Effective student support contributes to:
Higher Completion Rates: When students feel supported, they are more likely to stay engaged and complete their qualifications.
Improved Job Readiness: Support services can help students develop not only technical skills but also the soft skills required for workplace success.
Positive Student Experiences: Satisfied students are more likely to recommend your RTO, enhancing your reputation and attracting new students.
Key Areas of Student Support
RTOs should consider offering a range of support services that cater to the diverse needs of their student population. These services could include:
· Academic Support
VET students often need help with study skills, time management, and understanding course content. Providing accessible academic support can help students stay on track and succeed in their assessments.
· Language, Literacy, Numeracy, and Digital Skills (LLND) Support
LLND skills are essential for success in both training and employment. Some students may struggle with reading, writing, or numeracy tasks which can affect their ability to complete assessments.
· Wellbeing and Personal Support
Many VET students balance their studies with work, family, or other commitments which can lead to stress, anxiety or burnout. RTOs should offer wellbeing support services to help students manage their mental health and personal challenges.
· Technology and Learning Resources
With the increasing use of technology in VET delivery, RTOs must ensure that students have access to the digital tools and resources they need to succeed. This includes learning management systems (LMS), online libraries, and technical support.
Importance of Documenting
In any interaction involving student support it’s vital to maintain a clear record to ensure transparency, track progress and meet compliance requirements. Keeping a detailed Record of Conversation not only aids in consistent follow-up but also provides a critical audit trail for compliance with the Standards for RTOs.
A Record of Conversation document should include:
· The date and time of the discussion.
· Names of the parties involved.
· Key topics discussed and any agreed actions.
· Notes on follow-up steps or referrals provided to the student.
By maintaining thorough documentation your RTO can demonstrate a commitment to student success and regulatory compliance.
Conclusion
Supporting students throughout their VET journey is essential for ensuring positive outcomes, both for students and RTOs. By offering tailored academic, personal and career support, RTOs can help students overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. For RTOs looking to enhance their student support services, it’s important to stay compliant with regulatory requirements while also being responsive to the unique needs of learners.
If your RTO needs help in developing a robust student support system, Coast Wide Training Solutions have developed our EmpowerU Support Series. The EmpowerU Support Series is a series of short impactful online courses, designed to support individual and professional development and maximise efficiency and productivity in learning and working.
These courses provide students with skills to tackle problems in the workplace and educational environment. The courses will help to improve excellence, integrity, teamwork and communication skills not just in the workplace/classroom, but also in everyday life.
The courses within this Support Series include:
- Remote Working and Learning
- Stress and Well Being
- Developing Effective Study Skills
- Digital Literacy
- Communicating Effectively
- Understand Assessments
- Plagiarism and Academic Integrity
- Critical Thinking
- Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging
- Entrepreneurial Mindset
FREE!
To help you on your way, we are giving away a free tool to help you – our Record of Conversation tool. Use this form to record the details of student enrolment and support interviews.
To access your free tool, use the code CWTS03RC at checkout to download your free Record of Conversation Template.
If your RTO is ready to streamline your support services and empower your students, contact us at Coast Wide Training Solutions to learn more about our QMS 2025 Student Support Policy Pack and upcoming online course QMS Essentials: LLND Testing and Learner Support and Progression
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