Welcome to the
RPL noticeboard
Welcome to the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) noticeboard, where you’ll find the latest updates on matters relating to RPL.
RPL articles
West Cork dairy farmers’ RPL case study
by Ciara Staunton, Belinda Gascoigne and Seamus Ó TuamaThis article from ‘Recognition and validation of non-formal and informal learning at universities. Orientations in a complex field’ describes a case study at University College Cork showing how RPL helped dairy farmers workers access higher education.
Towards a Skills-First Scotland
Jonathan Clark’s paper, Towards a Skills-First Scotland: Pathways to Prosperity presents a bold vision for a skills-first Scotland, with Recognition of Prior Learning playing a key part in developing a flexible skills system.
European RPL Network Conference 2025
Catch up on the European RPL Network Conference 2025 and explore how Recognition of Prior Learning RPL is driving lifelong learning across higher education, industry, and civic society. Watch the SCQFP’s contribution 39 minutes into session 1.
RPL in practice: Exemplar from MTU Cork
RPL Ireland has shared an RPL exemplar from Munster Technological University, offering insights into practical approaches to assessment, learner support, and policy in action.
Cedefop launches Validation of Learning Hub
Cedefop has launched a new information hub on validation of non-formal and informal learning, an interactive tool designed to support policymakers, experts, and stakeholders across Europe in harnessing the full potential of individuals’ knowledge and abilities.
PLA Inside Out: 5th Validation of Prior Learning Biennale Collection
This special edition of PLAIO is dedicated to the 5th Validation of Prior Learning Biennale, which the SCQF Partnership took part in.
Regional Tertiary Pathfinders
A pilot project between Dumfries and Galloway College, the University of the West of Scotland and Dumfries and Galloway Council made substantial progress in providing integrated pathways into a broader range of education and training programmes at all levels of learning.
RPL at Dún Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology
Dún Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology has integrated RPL into its Strategic Plan for 2024–2028, aiming to become Ireland’s University for the Creative Industries. Read about their journey.
Cedefop conference
View the speakers’ presentations from the ‘Making learning progression a reality’ conference, which explored, among other topics, the validation of non-formal and informal learning and recognition of qualifications.
Contextual offers tool
The Sutton Trust has collected information from many of the top universities across the UK so students can easily see which leading universities offer contextual offers and the criteria they are using. Use in conjunction with the SCAPP Introduction to Widening Participation Resource to enhance your contextual admissions knowledge.
SCQF credits explained
This easy-to-understand guide to SCQF credits was created by Aberdeen University.
Conference of the European RPL Network
Taking place in November 2024, the Conference of the European RPL Network was held across four days. View the presentations and recordings of the sessions using the link below.
Non-traditional learning
Learn more about non-traditional learning, the different types and why it should be recognised.
RPL in Wales
ColegauCymru visited the SCQF Partnership to learn more about RPL in Scotland and our role. In this blog, ColegauCymru reflects on the visit and the next steps.
Experience alone does not guarantee learning
by Taruna GoelOver the past few days, I have been mulling over a very simple concept: learning doesn’t automatically result from experience
QAA charts credit transfer practice across the UK
By QAAQAA has produced the first comprehensive review of credit transfer policies across UK higher education institutions.
