RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING (RPL)
ALREADY EXPERIENCED? GET RECOGNISED.
HAVE YOUR SKILLS FORMALLY RECOGNISED THROUGH THE NDHA APLES PATHWAY
The NDHA Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) pathway is designed for experienced dog handlers who can demonstrate that they already meet the required learning outcomes of our certification programmes.
Rather than completing the full course, eligible applicants can be assessed based on their existing knowledge, experience, and practical ability.
WHY THIS MATTERS
FORMAL RECOGNITION THROUGH NDHA PROVIDES:
✔ Full industry-recognition
✔ Evidence for council bodies
✔ Alignment with national standards
✔ Professional credibility
This pathway is suitable for experienced dog walkers, professional handlers, industry operators or those with extensive practical experience managing dogs.
HOW THE RPL WORKS
STEP 1
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
Complete your application.
Include supporting evidence such as work history, references, or prior learning that may contribute toward NZQA-aligned outcomes.
STEP 2
COMPLETE YOUR ASSESSMENT
Undertake a practical and/or competency-based assessment aligned with NZQA standards, designed to evaluate your skills, knowledge, and ability to meet the required learning outcomes.
STEP 3
RECEIVE YOUR CERTIFICATION
Upon successfully meeting the required NZQA-aligned standards, you will be awarded your NDHA certification, recognising your capability as a professional dog handler.
All applicants must demonstrate that they meet the required competency standards for each certification level.
APPLY FOR RECOGNITION
Start your application and have your experience formally recognised.