Scouts Australia Institute of Training (SAIT)
RTO No. 5443
Assess-Only RTO – What Does This Mean?
The Scouts Australia Institute of Training (RTO No. 5443) operates as an “assess-only” Registered Training Organisation (RTO). But what does that actually mean?
While Scouts Australia’s Adult Training and Development teams provide a wide range of learning opportunities, SAIT itself does not deliver training. Instead, SAIT focuses on assessing the skills and knowledge you have already gained.
SAIT uses a process called Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) to assess and issue nationally recognised units of competency. This means that if you can demonstrate that your existing experience meets the required outcomes, you may be awarded qualifications without needing to complete additional formal training.
As defined by the Australian Skills Quality Authority:
“RPL assesses the competencies of an individual that may have been acquired through formal, non-formal and informal learning to determine the extent to which that individual meets the requirements specified in the training package or VET accredited courses.” (ASQA, 2026).
What Does This Mean for You?
As a member of Scouts Australia, you are already developing valuable skills through your involvement in training courses, events, and activities.
By actively collecting evidence of what you do, you can build a portfolio of evidence that demonstrates your competency. This may include:
- Logbooks or personal reflections documenting your experiences
- Risk assessments or safety plans you have developed or implemented
- Photos or videos demonstrating practical skills (with appropriate permissions)
- Meeting minutes, reports, or documentation you have prepared
- Feedback from peers, supervisors, or participants
- Records of problem-solving or incident management in activities
- Certificates from external courses or workshops
This portfolio can then be submitted to SAIT for assessment against a chosen qualification, skill set, or unit of competency.
Please note that, in some cases, additional evidence may be requested by your assessor to ensure all requirements are met.
Current Assessment Backlog
In recent months, SAIT has experienced a significant increase in enrolments and assessment submissions. This strong interest is fantastic to see, and we sincerely thank members for their ongoing engagement.
However, this has resulted in a temporary backlog in assessments, due to the limited number of available assessors.
We are actively working to expand our assessor team to increase capacity. In the meantime, we appreciate your patience and understanding, as assessment timeframes may be longer than usual.
If you have any concerns or require an update, please contact: sait.enrolment@scouts.com.au
Opportunities Through SAIT
SAIT provides valuable opportunities for both youth members and adult volunteers to gain nationally recognised qualifications based on the skills they already use in Scouting.
These qualifications can support personal development, enhance employment opportunities, and formally recognise the experience gained through Scouting.
Here’s what one member shared about their experience:
“SAIT helped me realise my potential and opened doors to opportunities beyond my imagination. It took the skills I already had and gave me the qualification to back them up!”
Want to Get Your Skills Officially Recognised?
Enroll today with the Scouts Australia Institute of Training (SAIT) and have your skills assessed for a full or partial qualification. As a Scouting member, you have access to a variety of qualifications that complement your journey.
Click the button below to explore the available qualifications and choose the one that suits you! Don’t miss this chance to elevate your Scouting accomplishments.