Students are required to attend 20 hours of classroom training per week.

Homework is expected to be approximately 5 hours a week.

The training and assessment schedule shows the weeks during which training is delivered and assessment conducted for each unit.

The total amount of training provided for structured classroom sessions is 550 hours. Time scheduled for assessment in class is 250 hours. Additional study which is unsupervised and may include research for assessments and general reading is expected to be on average 5 hours a week.

A work placement of 120 hours is also required which students will complete during Week 11 of each term.

Total delivery and assessment hours therefore amount to 920 hours and the volume of learning (i.e. including unsupervised learning of homework) is 1,120 hours. A detail breakdown of hours is provided in the Training and Assessment Schedule.

SCPE operates a system of rolling enrolments meaning that students may commence at the beginning of any term. Students may enter the qualification after any unit, as there are no pre-requisites for any units. The Training and Assessment Schedule is shown in terms and this represents the scheduling of units on commencement. However, depending on when a student joins the course, the term number will vary.

SCPE has decided on the course duration and amount of training taking into account the AQF Volume of Learning, which is typically 1 – 2 years and 1200 – 2400 hours. It is considered that the duration and amount of training provided will allow students the opportunity to fully absorb the required knowledge, as well as develop skills over time. This amount is not reduced to account for existing competencies, as most learners will not have any prior relevant experience. However, where learners have prior skills and knowledge they may apply for RPL or credit transfer, which will reduce the course duration if granted.