Find Your Path: 5 Key Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Training Provider
Recent news has revealed that in response to workforce shortages, some training providers have resorted to hiring underqualified trainers and compressing course durations—sending students into the workforce unprepared.
This fast-tracked approach not only puts children and vulnerable clients at risk but also prevents students from developing genuine, job-ready skills.
So how can you avoid falling into one of these “quick cert” traps?
Here are 5 essential questions you should ask before choosing a training provider.
1. Is the provider a properly registered and compliant RTO?
Before committing to any course, it’s essential to make sure the training provider is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) with up-to-date registration and compliance.
Why does this matter? Because only an RTO that meets the national standards set by ASQA (Australian Skills Quality Authority) is legally allowed to deliver nationally recognised training and issue qualifications.
Here’s what you should check:
- RTO registration number – Every legitimate provider will display their RTO number on their website and promotional materials. You can verify it through the training.gov.au website.
- Scope of registration – Not all RTOs are approved to deliver every qualification. Make sure the course you’re interested in is within their official scope.
- Audit history or compliance record – You can search for basic audit history or performance information online, or ask the provider if they’ve recently passed ASQA audits or undergone major changes.
At AWT, we’re a fully registered RTO, committed to delivering training that not only meets national compliance requirements, but exceeds quality benchmarks through continual review, student feedback, and industry engagement.
2. What kind of student support is available?
Whether you’re a recent graduate, changing careers, or returning to study after a break, learning always comes with challenges. When choosing an RTO (Registered Training Organisation), don’t just look at the course content—ask how the provider supports students when things get difficult.
At AWT, for example, we offer support across all stages of the learning journey, including academic tutoring, placement coordination, career advice, and emotional well-being support. We aim to ensure that no student has to go through the process alone.
These services reflect the core values that shape our teaching philosophy:
- Integrity: We provide clear, accurate, and transparent information to help students make informed decisions.
- Every Aspiration Matters: We value each student’s background and goals, and work to create an inclusive and respectful learning environment.
- Professionalism: We respond promptly and professionally to student enquiries, ensuring clear and helpful communication.
- Quality: We continuously improve our course content to reflect current industry needs.
- Collaboration: We work closely with students, placement providers, and industry partners to deliver tailored support.
We also place a strong focus on the emotional and cultural well-being of our younger learners and those from diverse backgrounds—ensuring that every student feels safe, heard, and respected.
If you value meaningful student support, be sure to ask your provider for specific examples of how they deliver it.
3. Who are the trainers—and do they have real industry experience?
Choosing a provider with experienced trainers ensures that you’re learning more than just theory—you’ll gain insights into real-world practice, risk management, client interaction, and industry standards.
At AWT, for instance, our trainer Franco Lagatuz brings years of experience in both teaching and healthcare. He previously taught at NextEd Group for three years, delivering Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) and Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance. He’s proficient in LMS systems and has worked with clinical organisations such as CMAX Clinical Research and Concord Institute, as well as serving as a Medical Officer III in a government hospital, handling patient assessment and emergency care.
His background allows him to link theory with real-world case studies, helping students understand not just what to do, but why it matters in a workplace setting.
When considering a provider, it’s worth reviewing their website or asking directly for trainer bios—because every great class begins with the right educator.
4.Do they offer structured practical placements?
Education shouldn’t stay in the classroom—especially in fields like early childhood education, community services, and disability support. Practical placement is the bridge that turns knowledge into confidence and competence.
When evaluating a provider, ask:
- Do they partner with approved, reputable placement providers?
- Do they offer sufficient placement hours for your qualification?
- Is supervision and feedback part of the process?
- Will the provider arrange the placement or expect students to do it alone?
At AWT, we arrange placements in collaboration with verified industry partners. For example:
- CHC43121 Certificate IV in Disability Support includes 80 hours of work placement
- CHC40421 Certificate IV in Youth Work includes 80 hours of work placement.
- CHC43315 Certificate IV in Mental Health also including 80 hours of work placement.
5.What do current or former students say?
The best way to gauge a provider’s credibility isn’t from their website—it’s from the students themselves.
Before enrolling, check out Google reviews, social media comments, and alumni testimonials. These first-hand experiences can help you evaluate whether a provider truly prioritises teaching quality and student success.
Here are some reflections from students who completed the Certificate III in Individual Support at AWT:
- Fee shared:
“This wasn’t just a course—it was a journey of personal growth. Dr. Frank didn’t just teach skills—he gave me the confidence and ethical grounding to move forward in health care. Highly recommended for anyone entering aged or disability care.”
- Mengyi Zhang commented:
“Overall, it was an excellent experience. I feel much more confident in my career path and really appreciated the team’s professionalism and support.”
- Tom Tran said:
“The team at AWT and the guidance from Dr. Frank gave me a rich and supportive learning environment. If you’re looking for quality training, this is the right place.”
Of course, every student experience is unique, but these reviews offer insight into whether students felt supported, engaged, and equipped to move forward.
Listening to others who’ve walked the path before you is a smart—and responsible—first step.
Final Thought: Don’t let your choice of training provider become a risk
In today’s competitive education landscape, choosing the wrong provider can cost you time, money, and opportunities.
The right provider will support you with qualified trainers, hands-on placement, reliable student services, and a strong track record of industry alignment.
If that’s what you’re looking for, AWT may be the right place to start.
📩 Book a free consultation to explore which course is right for you. Contact AWT