Frequently Asked Questions

How much supervision time is required from my existing staff?

Your existing licensed staff will need to provide supervision during practical assessments, but this is integrated with normal work activities. The supervisor primarily needs to be within sight and sound of the trainee during these assessments, which are conducted during regular pest control jobs. This minimises disruption to your business operations.

How quickly can my employees complete the course?

The course is self-paced, so completion time varies based on your employee's prior experience and time commitment. Most technicians complete the theoretical components within 2-4 weeks while continuing to work full-time. The practical assessments are integrated with their regular work duties, so there's no additional time away from revenue-generating activities.

What equipment/resources do we need to provide?

Your technicians will need access to your standard pest control equipment and vehicles for their practical assessments. No specialised training equipment is required beyond what you already use in your daily operations. They'll also need basic access to a computer or tablet with internet connection to complete the online theoretical components.

Can I enroll someone who isn't employed yet?

Our courses are designed for currently employed pest technicians, as practical assessments must be completed in a real work environment. We recommend enrolling new staff after they join your team. This ensures they can immediately apply their learning in your specific work context, aligning their training with your company's processes and equipment.

Is there a discount for enrolling multiple employees?

No, we don't offer discounts for enrolling multiple employees. We stand by the quality of course and the training we provide.

Do learners get to keep access to the course materials even after they've completed it?

You will not have access to your learning management system portal once you have graduated, but you can download and print course material from the learning management system during your enrollment period!

What format are the course lessons in?

The course learning material is a mixture of text and media designed specifically by industry experts. Our courses include step-by-step media from real work sites demonstrating how to undertake key skills and photographs of real pest infestations.

What if I've already received previous, informal pest control training?

If you've already received pest control training, you may be suitable for recognition of prior learning — contact us for more information! If you have completed formal training elsewhere, you may be suitable for credit transfers – contact us for more information.

I am finding the pressure of learning a new role stressful. What support do I have from Advance You?

We understand that balancing study with work and life commitments can be challenging. Everyone learns differently and sometimes unexpected situations arise that affect your training. That's why we provide comprehensive support through our training coordinators, who offer confidential, one-on-one consultations at no cost.

Are there any additional resources that would benefit my learning?

The online course material has been designed to prepare you for your assessment. We have also provided additional resources within the learning management system you can download and keep. Other RTOs recommend the Urban Pest Management in Australia 4th ed. (2008) by Gerozisis, Ion Staunton and Phillip Hadlington, and Australian Termites (2007) by Phillip Hadlington, Ion Staunton and Louise Beck, however we have reviewed this and have found that there is too much outdated information and therefore we do not recommend it.

What are the enrollment requirements?

To enroll in our courses, you must:

• Be currently employed by a pest control company
• Have access to real work sites, equipment, and a valid supervisor
• Provide a Unique Student Identifier (USI)
• Complete a Language, Literacy, and Numeracy test
• For the Timber Pest Course: Have a General Pest Licence or have completed a General Pest Course

How long does the enrollment process take?

The enrollment process is immediate. Once payment is processed, you'll receive access to the course materials right away. There's no waiting period or scheduled start dates - you can begin learning immediately.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept credit/debit cards and direct bank transfers. For businesses enrolling multiple employees, we can also arrange invoice payment options. Contact our training coordinator for more details.

Do you offer payment plans?

No, we do not offer payment plans. We stand by the quality of the course and the service we provide and we require payment prior to enrolment.

How is the course delivered?

Our courses are delivered through a blend of online self-paced learning and practical on-the-job assessments. The theoretical components are accessed through our online learning management system, while practical assessments are conducted in real work environments during normal business operations.

How long do I have to complete the course?

You have 3 months from enrollment to complete the course. This provides ample flexibility to progress at your own pace while balancing work commitments. Most students complete the course within 4-8 weeks while working full-time.

Is there any in-person training required?

No in-person classroom training is required. All theoretical learning is online, and practical assessments are conducted in your regular work environment. This means no travel requirements and no time away from revenue-generating activities.

How much time per week should I dedicate to the course?

For the general pest course we recommend that the student undertakes the course full time. Since the course utilises a blended delivery method, this entails online theory as well as on-the-job practical experience. For the timber pest course, we understand that most students are currently working fulltime as a general pest technician. Therefore we recommend conducting the theory during downtime and in-between jobs. On the job training will need to be scheduled with their supervisor.

How are the courses assessed?

Assessment includes both theoretical and practical components:

• Theoretical assessment through online quizzes and short answer questions
• Digital Portfolio demonstrating practical skills at real worksites
• Digital Logbook documenting completed treatments at real sites
• Supervisor's verification of competence

How quickly are assessments marked?

We pride ourselves on our industry-leading assessment turnaround time. All assessments are marked within 1-2 business days, allowing you to progress through the course efficiently without unnecessary delays.

Our full-time trainers prioritize quick feedback to keep you moving toward certification. This rapid turnaround means most students complete their certification in 6-8 weeks, not months.

What happens if I don't pass an assessment?

If you don't pass an assessment, our trainers will provide detailed feedback and guidance on areas for improvement. You'll have the opportunity to resubmit assessments after addressing the feedback. Our goal is to support your success, not create barriers.

How are practical assessments conducted?

Practical assessments are conducted in your regular work environment during normal business operations. You'll document your work through photos, videos, and digital forms, which are then submitted through our online system. This approach ensures minimal disruption to your work schedule while still providing robust evidence of your competence.

What is the Digital Portfolio assessment method?

Our innovative Digital Portfolio system allows you to demonstrate competency through real workplace activities. Instead of artificial classroom scenarios, you'll showcase actual pest treatments you perform during your regular work.

The Digital Portfolio includes:

• Digital Logbooks: Document 7 validated workplace treatments with detailed records
• Video Portfolios: Submit 3 video demonstrations of key treatment techniques
• Supervisor Validation: Your workplace supervisor verifies competency through weekly debriefs
• Real Equipment Usage: Show proficiency with actual pest control tools and chemicals

What technology do I need to complete the course?

You'll need:

• A computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet access
• A device capable of taking photos and videos for practical assessments
• Basic computer skills to navigate our learning management system
• A modern web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge)

Can I access the course on my mobile phone?

Yes, our learning management system is mobile-responsive and can be accessed on smartphones and tablets. This allows you to study on-the-go or during downtime between jobs. However, some activities may be easier to complete on a larger screen.

What if I have technical difficulties?

Our support team is available during business hours to assist with any technical issues. You can contact us by phone at (07) 2143 4222 or by email at enquiries@advanceyou.com.au. We're committed to resolving technical issues promptly to minimise disruption to your learning.