QUALIFICATIONS AND JOBS Notes

Q: Will I get a qualification at the end of my training?
A: Yes, when all assessment tasks or the onsite assessment has been successful. If parts of the qualification need to be completed, a statement of attainment can be issued which is recognised nationally.

Q: At what level, for example Certificate I, II, III, IV, diploma, degree etc?
A: The Master Builders offers qualifications in the building and construction industry from certificate I through to Advanced Diploma (certificate VI) “hyperlink to the list of quals on offer”

Q: What sort of jobs could I get with this qualification?
A: Qualifications offered by the Master builders allows individuals to apply for a licence and be self employed in addition, employers prefer qualified people on site.

Q: Is the qualification nationally recognised?
A: Yes. All of the qualifications offered by the Master Builders are nationally recognised

Q: Can I build on this training or qualification in the future?
A: Yes. The qualifications offered by the Master Builders are embedded in the higher level qualifications and experience is recognised through our recognition of prior learning (RPL) pathway.

Q: If I wanted to, could I do this training as an apprenticeship or traineeship?
A: Yes. The Master Builders employs over 270 apprentices and trainees and is looking at cadetships for the commercial sector. If you want further information about apprenticeships and traineeships, you can visit the Australian Apprenticeships website www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au or www.mbansw.asn.au

Time

Q: How long does the qualification take?
A: Depending on your skill and knowledge level, all our qualifications are programmed over a 6 month period however, some students have completed in lesser time.

Q: How many hours per week will I need for the training?
A: We recommend 10-15hrs per week and most of our training is offered on weekends so not to interfere with your working schedule.

Q: And when does the training take place, especially if I have other commitments, for example, I need to collect my children from school?
A: Most of our training is offered on weekends so not to interfere with your working schedule with certificate IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma offered through distance learning, so can be completed at any time.

Q: Will this be considered or affect my training? Not at all as we pride ourselves on being flexible and providing a service that suits our participants. Is the training broken into terms?
A: No, Training at the Master Builders is ongoing with training course starting twice a month. Certificate III RPL is undertaken when the participant is ready.

Q: Ask about how the training is run and where the training will be run, for example, classroom, workshop, work placement, online learning etc?
A: Training at the Master Builders can be completed under 4 differing pathways; Wendy, please place the info here about the 4 pathways

Q: Do I need to attend all classes or is it flexible? Can I do some parts online or through distance education?
A: Yes we provide 4 pathways for most of our qualifications. Details can be found here.

Q: Can I get any credit for the experience and/or qualifications I already have?
A: Yes, experience is recognised through our recognition of prior learning (RPL) pathway RTOs have a process called Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), through which you can be assessed to see if you should be given credit for courses/training/qualifications you have completed, or experience you have.

COSTS/FEES Notes

Q: How much will the training cost? What’s the situation if I have to defer or drop out of the training, for example is there a refund or cancellation policy?
A: Certificate III starts at $2200, with Cert IV @ $3500, Diploma $5000 and Advanced Diploma @ $7500. Some qualifications also attract funding, so call us to discuss. You can refer to our policies and procedures for refund and cancellation.

Q: Does this include everything? If not, what else might I need to pay and when will I need to buy additional materials?
A: All training costs include the essentials but we do encourage participants to purchase the three (3) volumes of the National Construction Code Building Code of Australia (BCA). It can be purchased throught the Master Builders Products Catalog.

Q: What are my options for paying for course fees, for example, can I pay by the month, the term etc? Are there discounts, for example, if I pay early, or all at once?
A: The Master Builders course are to be paid up front with the exception of face to face classes which can be paid for ad you go.

Q: If you think you could be eligible for some assistance with the cost of your training, ask about this. Does the RTO offer loans to students to help them pay the fee?
A: At present the Master Builders does not have access to student loans however, some funding is available on a case by case basis.

LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT

Q: How much study/homework, etc, will be needed outside class times?
A: Under the RPL pathway we estimate it would take about 16hrs to prepare your portfolio, during a face to face class there is approximately 10-15hrs per week required to complete the assessment tasks, over a 6 month period.

Q: Is the training “hands-on” (practical)?
A: The Master Builders does not provide “hands on” training with the exception of certificate II “job ready” programmes. Most training is management based.

Q: How will I be assessed, for example will there be exams, practical demonstrations, projects etc?
A: The Master Builders does not examine or have exams. We use real life assessment tasks that can be used on projects that are currently being undertaken. Our onsite pathway can be undertaken on the job site so you do not loose precious working time.

Q: If it’s a while since I last did any study or training, what help is available if I need it?
A: The Master Builders provides assistance throughout your study period beginning with an initial interview that sets you up to complete your qualification as soon as possible.