Main menu:
Programmes of Study > Recognition of Prior Learning
NCEF/ UL RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING (RPL) Scheme
What is the RPL Scheme?
The RPL Scheme is a mechanism by which individuals with prior learning may be assessed for entry onto, credit towards and/or for exemption from particular stages, units/modules within the UL awards of Certificate and Diploma in Exercise & Health Fitness.
This scheme is particularly relevant to those who received the NCEF Level 1 award (PEAI awarded) between the years 1987 and 2006 and to those who hold equivalent awards either awarded within Ireland or from other countries
Note: Graduates of the Certificate in Exercise & Health Fitness (UL awarded - 2007) do not need to apply to this scheme.
This scheme will adhere to and adapt from the policies and procedures as laid down by the UL policy on Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Within this process close cognisance will be taken of the need to ensure that the integrity of UL awards is vigorously guarded and that UL academic standards are maintained at all times.
Each applicant will be accessed on an individual basis and must demonstrate that the prior learning achieved, whether in a previous qualification such as NCEF Level 1 and /or in work based or research based learning shows equivalency to the learning outcomes already set down by the Certificate in Exercise & Health Fitness or by any other element of the diploma pathway.
The NCEF/UL RPL Assessment Board will oversee the process by which this RPL scheme will proceed.
How can I apply for RPL for my NCEF Level 1 Certificate (or equivalent) towards the UL/NCEF Certificate in Exercise and Health Fitness?
Processing of applications by the NCEF/UL RPL Assessment Board commenced in Sept 07. You must complete and submit a generic NCEF/ UL Application Form and a Portfolio of Learning Form (POL). This will provide details with regard to the learning you have achieved in both formal education and in any work or life experience relevant to this application. Both forms can be downloaded from this website or by request from ncef@ul.ie
Is there a fee for RPL and if so what does it cover?
For applicants seeking recognition of their NCEF/PEAI L1 Certificate (or equivalent) there is an RPL fee of €725. This fee includes application, registration with UL as a UL student, processing & individual assessment by the NCEF/ UL RPL Assessment Board, official results, UL Examinations Board submission and UL graduation.
If you are applying for Recognised Prior Learning for entry onto any Specialist Modules within Stage 2 or applying for Tutor Education, Stage 3 of the Diploma in Exercise & Health Fitness there is no extra RPL application fee.
When is this fee due?
When submitting both your NCEF Application Form and Portfolio of Learning you must also submit the fee of €725. If your application is not successful on first submission then you can either transfer your fee to subsequent applications or you can receive a refund minus a 25% administrative fee.
How can I apply for RPL for my NCEF Level 1 Certificate (or equivalent) towards entry onto Stage 2 and/or Stage 3 of the Diploma in Exercise and Health Fitness?
In order to apply, applicants must hold a current NCEF Level 1 Certificate (i.e. Have graduated with an NCEF/PEAI Level 1 Certificate between 1987-2006)or equivalent (i.e. EQSF Level 3, and / or NFQ Level 6 in a relevant discipline).
Candidates should also complete and submit a generic NCEF/UL Application Form for the specific module being applied for e.g. Personal Training Specialist Unit, Children’s Specialists Module– specifying in the appropriate space provided if they wish to apply for the recognition of their prior learning. In addition to this candidates must submit a Portfolio of Learning Form (POL) which includes a detailed report of learning and work experience in the Health & Fitness Industry and any other area that is particularly relevant to the unit being applied for (e.g. Personal Training).
As stated above if you are applying for recognition of your prior learning for entry onto any Specialist Units within Stage 2 or applying for Stage 3 Tutor Education Unit within the Diploma in Exercise & Health Fitness pathway there is no extra RPL application fee.
is a Portfolio of Learning?In a Portfolio of Learning, you provide details with regard to the learning you have achieved a) in formal education and b) in any work or life experience relevant to this application.
A portfolio is an investment opportunity for you to collect and collate evidence of the level of competence that you have achieved in a structured format so that it can be presented for recognition of prior learning, skills and abilities.
The official NCEF/UL Portfolio of Learning Form (POL) has been tailored to include all the elements referred to above - you simply complete the form and attach any documentation requested e.g. CV & references
Do I have to attend an Interview if I apply for RPL?
It may be necessary for you to be interviewed in order to provide greater detail and or to clarify the learning he/ she has achieved.
The interview may also include having you complete a short written assignment on some element of your prior learning experiences. You will be informed prior to interview if you will be required to complete a written assignment as part of the interview process.
What Criteria will be used by the board to assess my prior learning?
In the case of each individual applicant, the following General Assessment Criteria will be used: