So, you want to start your RTO?
You've probably seen the news stories about how popular vocational education and training (VET) is becoming or looking at a friend who is running an RTO. And you might be thinking about starting your own RTO.
It's a big decision, but it can be a very rewarding one. Here are a few things to think about before you take the plunge.
- Do your research
The first step is to do your research. This means finding out as much as you can about the VET sector, what RTOs do and what's involved in running one.
There are lots of resources available online, including the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), which is the national regulator for the VET sector. You should also talk to people who are already running RTOs and get their advice. The more information you have is better for you to make all informed choices and decisions including starting an RTO.
- Make sure you're qualified
To start an RTO, you might not need to have certain qualifications and experience, however, understanding as many things as you can related to vocational education and training would certainly assist you. At the time of the audit and afterwards, you'll need to show that you have the knowledge and skills to run an organisation and deliver quality training to regulators and other stakeholders.
- Know your market
Before you start your RTO, it's important to understand your target market. Who do you want to train? What courses will they be interested in? What are their needs? Are you training on shore or offshore? We know so many questions and it's just beginning.
One thing that we can certainly tell you is to ensure there's a demand for the training you want to offer. You can do this by talking to potential students, businesses and other organisations that might use your services.
- Have a comprehensive business plan
Once you've done your research and you're confident there's a market for your RTO, you need to develop a business plan. This will help you map out how you're going to run your organisation and make it successful.
Your business plan should cover things like your marketing strategy, your financial projections and your operations. It's also a good idea to get some professional advice to help you develop your business plan.
- Get registered
The final step is to register your RTO with ASQA. This is a complex process, so it's important to get help from professional RTO Consultants if you can.
Once you're registered, you'll be able to start delivering training and courses to your students.
Starting your own RTO is a big decision, but it can be a very rewarding one. Just make sure you do your research, plan carefully and get the right help and advice.
