This report presents the findings of a study examining the expectations and experiences of teachers
and trainers with the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAA40104). This qualification was
introduced in 2005 and is mandated as the nationally endorsed entry-level qualification for teachers
and trainers in the VET sector. By 2008, however, there was clear evidence (Innovation & Business
Skills Australia 2009; Precision Consulting 2008; Robertson 2008) that, like its predecessor, the
qualification was seen not to be providing the essential ‘toolkit’ required by practitioners on entry to
the sector.
This research was designed to provide a deeper understanding of the issues surrounding the
qualification by capturing the perceptions and experiences of teachers and trainers who had
recently completed the program. The goal of the study was to ascertain the extent to which the
Certificate IV in Training and Assessment added value to their skills in training and assessment.