Originator/Sponsor:Muka Tangata and Primary ITO
Portfolio Managers: Jackie Lynch
Status: Completed September 2025
Lead Agency/Service Provider: Ripple Ed – Jackie and Ramon Messam
Context:
This project aimed to evaluate whether providing clearer Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) guidance for both assessors and applicants along with the use of digital tools such as pre-screening tools for learners and AI assistance for assessors, could:
- enhance the consistency of RPL assessments
- increase the competency of assessors, and
- reduce the time required for both assessors and learners in the RPL application process.
Objectives:
The objectives of this project were to:
1: Identify the current status of RPL in the Food and Fibre sector/TEOs
2: Identify RPL good practices
3: Produce an initial RPL Guide
4: Pilot integrating an RPL pathway
5: Update RPL Guide with lessons learnt
The initial report identified the current status of RPL in the Food and Fibre sector and amongst TEOs (Tertiary Education Organisations).
While RPL offers clear benefits for learners, employers, providers, and the wider economy, uptake of RPL in New Zealand’s food and fibre sector has been limited due to cost, time pressures, and a lack of familiarity around RPL processes. International examples, such as Ireland’s significant investment in RPL, show the potential of how coordinated funding and clear guidance can strengthen adoption.
To help TEOs, employers and learners in the food and fibre sector understand and implement RPL, an RPL Toolkit was created as part of this project. The toolkit brings together good practices, resources, and a draft assessment tool to support TEOs, with the aim of making RPL more accessible, trusted, and embedded into vocational education. Ultimately, progress will require a coordinated commitment from funders, policymakers, industry, and providers to turn these opportunities into lasting benefits for the sector.
Read the RPL Toolkit here.
The above information was current as at 3 September 2025