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Scouts Australia Institute of Training (SAIT)

Driving Continuous Improvement Through Plan–Do–Review

Plan–Do–Review is a core principle of Scouting in Australia. It guides how we deliver the Program, evaluate our practices and continuously seek opportunities to improve the experiences of our members.

This principle extends beyond the Program. At the Scouts Australia Institute of Training (SAIT) RTO 5443, we apply Plan–Do–Review to our vocational education and training (VET) operations, ensuring we continue to improve our processes, support our dedicated volunteers and deliver positive experiences for candidates and assessors.

Over the past 12 months, SAIT has undertaken several projects and initiatives aimed at strengthening our operations and improving the training and assessment experience for members of Scouts Australia.

Centralised Enrolments and Assessor Allocation

As of January 2026, SAIT has implemented a centralised enrolment process for all qualifications and units of competency.

Previously, State Support Offices often assisted with enrolments. While this provided valuable local support, the introduction of a centralised online enrolment form provides candidates with a direct connection to SAIT from the outset.

This approach enables SAIT to:

  • Provide candidates with consistent and current information about their RLP options.
  • Ensure enrolment information is captured accurately and efficiently.
  • Establish a direct relationship between candidates and SAIT from day one.
  • Better support candidates as they navigate the evolving VET environment.

A National Approach to Assessor Allocation

Assessor allocation has also evolved as part of this initiative.

Previously, candidates would generally be assessed by an SAIT assessor located within their own State or Branch. Under the centralised model, candidates may now be allocated an appropriately qualified SAIT assessor from anywhere across Australia.

This national approach provides greater flexibility in matching candidates with assessors based on availability, qualifications and assessment requirements, rather than geographical location alone.

SAIT recognises the valuable time and commitment contributed by our volunteer assessors. Centralised assessor allocation aims to distribute assessment workloads more effectively, avoid placing unnecessary pressure on individual assessors and support a more streamlined assessment process.

Ultimately, this helps us make better use of our national assessor network while maintaining a positive experience for both candidates and assessors.

Assessment Tools: Keeping Pace with a Changing VET Environment

The VET sector is continually evolving, with changes to qualifications, units of competency and assessment requirements occurring regularly.

To ensure SAIT remains responsive to these changes, a dedicated project team is currently undertaking a comprehensive review and update of our assessment tools.

This work is focused on ensuring our assessment resources remain:

  • Current and aligned with training package requirements.
  • Relevant to the skills and knowledge being assessed.
  • Clear and accessible for candidates.
  • Practical and supportive for assessors.
Two Scouts Carrying Equipment on Camp School and Qualifications from Scouting

New and Updated Assessment Tools

As part of this ongoing work, SAIT has been developing and updating assessment tools across a range of qualifications, including:

  • CHC24015 Certificate II in Active Volunteering
  • CUA20225 Certificate II in Creative Industries
  • SISSS00140 Wilderness First Aid
  • SISCAQU020 Perform Water Rescues
  • CUA30220 Certificate III in Community Dance, Theatre and Events (expected  released by mid-october)

If you are currently using an older assessment tool, we encourage you to contact sait.enrolments@scouts.com.au to confirm that you have the most up-to-date version.

Using current assessment tools helps ensure consistency, compliance and a positive experience for candidates and assessors.

Advanced Diplomas: Update

A decision was made at the SAIT Committee weekend in August to place Advanced Diploma new enrolments on hold while we undertake a review of these qualifications. While enrolment numbers in our Advanced Diploma programs have been relatively low, we believe it is important to take the time to ensure these qualifications remain fit for purpose, aligned with industry expectations, and supported by high-quality RPL assessment processes.

During this period, a working group will be established to commence the pre-validation process and contribute to the review of the qualification requirements, assessment pathways, and evidence requirements. This work will help ensure our Advanced Diploma qualifications continue to effectively recognise the skills, knowledge, and experience of our members and meet the expectations of industry and the Outcome Standards. If you are interested in being involved in the working group, please let me know. We would welcome your knowledge, experience, and perspective as part of this important review.

Find Out More

Learn how Scouts Australia Institute of Training (SAIT) can help you gain formal qualifications, strengthen your leadership capabilities, and open the door to new opportunities. Click the button below to explore the range of qualifications available or contact the SAIT team via email at sait.enrolment@scouts.com.au.