Seeking to boost the quality of training and delivery, extensive efforts have been dedicated to quantifying and comparing the performance of registered training organisations (RTOs) in the vocational education and training (VET) sector. However, a recent study from NCVER (National Centre for Vocational Education Research) offers a fresh approach, focusing on the altruistic motivations of high-performing RTOs and the operational elements they embed to achieve stellar results.
The research reveals that RTO leaders define high performance beyond mere completion rates. They put a high emphasis on ‘intention-based’ activities, such as the effort invested in building relationships with staff and employers. This finding suggests that external assessments of RTO performance based solely on quantifiable measures may fall short of being seen as comprehensive or fair.
Motivations of High-Performing RTOs
Interestingly, the study identifies altruism as a significant motivator for these high-achieving RTOs. These leaders view their organisations as not just businesses but entities deeply connected to their communities. Thus, boosting performance might involve promoting awareness of this community’s interconnectedness.
Prioritising a ‘Bigger Picture’ Approach
Adopting a ‘bigger picture’ approach, high-performing RTOs prioritise student support, employer engagement, and leadership, overachieving quantifiable measures like completion rates. As a result, their supportive practices amplified their reputation, eliminating the need for advertising and ensuring enrolment quotas. It could incentivise other RTOs to emulate their values and practices for significant business sustainability.
The Role of Leadership Style in High-Performing RTOs
When it comes to translating motivations into action, the research uncovers the crucial role of leadership style. High-performing RTOs leaned towards transformational leadership, prioritising relationships and encouraging staff to align with the company’s goals. Thus, providing resources, guidance, and support to VET leaders in the unique RTO environment could encourage high performance.
Self-Assessment of RTO Performance
The study not only provides a new perspective on RTO performance but also emphasises how providers self-assess their performance. The altruistic motivations of RTO leaders and their beliefs about the role of RTOs in the community offer an alternative approach to supporting and promoting RTO performance.
Strategies for Success: Role of Altruism
The research outlines that altruistic intentions and the necessity of business security drive high-performing RTOs. RTO leaders view strong relationships with students and employers as crucial, and they prioritise creating safe environments for students and staff.
Embracing Support and Promoting Performance in the VET Sector
Lastly, while these RTOs may welcome resources and guidance to boost performance, they see no requirement for further regulation. They believe high performance also involves aspirations for the organisation, established student support, industry knowledge, excellent trainers, and resources dedicated to industry engagement.
In conclusion, this insightful study suggests that understanding the motivations and operational strategies of high-performing RTOs could be pivotal in promoting quality and success in the VET sector. As such, policymakers and stakeholders should consider these findings to shape future strategies aimed at elevating the performance of RTOs.
Learn more about the research by visiting Beyond the standard: motivators of high-performing RTOs.
