PACI INSTRUCTOR ASSESSMENT PROCESS

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Assessment of instructional skills takes place in three (3) distinct environments as follows:

1. Theory: You will present a theory lesson in a classroom environment.

2. Ground: You will present a practical skills lesson on level ground, to simulate a vertical environment.

3. Height: You will present a practical skills lesson on a real vertical cliff.

A typical progression of lessons would be:

1. Mechanical advantage theory and concepts are taught in the classroom first (ie theory); then

2. Practice building and applying M.A. systems as part of a ground lesson; then

3. Go to a real vertical cliff so your 'students' can put everything into practice at height; then

4. Assessment - after sufficient practice time, you then assess your 'students' to determine if they are 'competent'.

PACI instructors are trained and then assessed using competency based methods.

There is training phase, which is then followed by an assessment phase.

The training phase is conducted by an instructor trainer - no assessment takes place during this phase - it is intended to develop your teaching skills and ensure that you can work within realistic time frames and apply PACI protocols. Think of the instructor trainer as your coach.

The assessment phase is conducted by an instructor assessor (an independent assessor who was not involved in the training).

The assessor will simply say something like... "Show me". If you need to ask your assessor how to teach a skill, this implies you are not competent!

Scheduling:

[ ] Duration of PACI instructor assessment is 2 days (Exception: If there is only 1 candidate, it can be undertaken in a 1 day time frame).

[ ] Maximum of 6 instructor candidates based on 2 day time-frame.

Your assessor:

PACI assessors are carefully chosen from a pool of very experienced instructor trainers who have shown exceptional talent and passion for roping activities at height. They typically have 20 or more years continuous roping experience. They have observed many instructor candidates present lessons over the years - and have well developed listening and note taking skills. They are adept at making assessment decisions based on their observations - and recording results on established lesson assessment 'template' forms.

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NOTE:

Documents in PDF file format require the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader. It is a free download.

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To download and save Adobe PDF files, right click and select "Save target as". You will then be asked to select a folder to save the file to. All of these documents are the intellectual property of PACI Pty Ltd. Your 'rights' to use these documents is confined only to your immediate training and assessment. You may not use these documents for commercial gain and/or profit unless prior written contractual terms are agreed upon - and there will be a licence fee. Using PACI intellectual property for commercial gain and/or profit without our consent is a crime known as stealing.

ALL STUDENTS - STUDENT HANDBOOK AND CODE OF CONDUCT
	DOCUMENT	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
1	Student handbook Student signing page	1.7 1.0	Mandatory document for all candidate instructors! This document contains all of the guiding principles for student conduct and behaviour during training. You should download and read the content. Your enrolment on a PACI course is conditional that you agree to, and accept the rules for student behaviour and code of conduct.	134 KB

GOVERNMENT / RTO REPORTING REQUIREMENTS (ASQA)
	DOCUMENT	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
1	AVETMISS (fillable electronic)	2024 reporting year	Australian Vocational Education & Training management Information Statistical Standard The government collect information from all trainees undertaking nationally recognised training. RTOs are required to collect this information and then upload it to the NCVER website. You MUST complete this questionnaire BEFORE your training commences!	540 KB
2	LLN (fillable electronic version)	1.2 01/Jan/2021	This document is designed to assess your current level of literacy, language and numeracy. You MUST complete this self-assessment BEFORE your training commences!	1.09 MB
3	USI code		You must have a valid USI code. No USI code = no qualification!

PACI MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS
	DOCUMENT	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
1	Membership application	2024	This is a mandatory form that all instructors must complete (outdoor recreation context). If you are successful on your course, you will receive the first 12 months membership with PACI free. We only accept documents in electronic (typed) format. Handwritten applications will not be accepted.	2.1 MB
2	Training agreement	2024	Mandatory if you intend to train and assess. If you intend to train and assess others for the purpose of accessing national qualifications, you must sign this contract. PACI is an 'RTO' and we need to establish a contract with you before issuing qualifications on your behalf.	176 KB

EXAM PAPERS (knowledge requirements)
	EXAM PAPERS	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
	Compulsory exams for all instructors
1	Standards and Procedures	3.7 01/Mar/2024	Mandatory exam paper covers all general PACI operating procedures. All Guides and Instructors are required to complete this exam. It is an open book exam - you may refer to your notes and all online resources (eg PACI Protocols document).	288 KB
2	Risk management	1.9 01/Mar/2024	Mandatory exam paper for all persons who have a legal duty of care at a workplace. Password = copyright	168 KB
3	Knots	2.3 01/Aug/2024	Mandatory exam paper. Password = (No password required) All trainee instructors to complete this exam. (knots are fundamental to all activity specialisations)	4.36 MB
	Specialist exams:
4	Anchors	1.8b 01/Aug/2024	Mandatory exam for all training on natural surfaces.	2.23 MB
5	Abseiling	1.9 01/Aug/2024	Mandatory exam for all training involving abseiling.	1.36 MB
6	Artificial surfaces	1.4 01/Nov/2019	Climbing on artificial surfaces exam.	2.88 MB
7	Flying fox (zip lines)	1.0 01/July/2016	Flying fox (zipline) exam.	296 KB
8	Vertical mobility	2.0 18/Apr/2024	Vertical mobility (self-rescue) exam.	1.03 MB
9	Top rope climbing	4.8b 01/Aug/2024	Top rope climbing exam for natural surfaces.	2.35 MB
10	Challenge rope courses	1.7 01/Aug/2024	Challenge ropes course exam (high elements). Complete this exam if you are intending to Guide or Instruct high elements on challenge ropes course structures. Password = copyright	3.7 MB

PRE-EXISTING QUALIFICATIONS AND CONDITIONS
	ITEM	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
1	TAE Certificate IV		All instructors are required to have a TAE 40122 or TAE 40116 Certificate IV in Training and Education. Click on the link for Federal Government requirements... You can also visit the ASQA website for further information. ASQA website: https://www.asqa.gov.au/ We need an electronic copy of your TAE Cert IV qualification. If you don't have it, you will not be allowed to assess anyone.
2	First aid		You must have a current certificate in first aid + CPR. We need an electronic copy.
3	Health and Fitness		You must be fit and healthy for undertaking instructional activities at height. You MUST disclose any medical condition that could affect your ability to discharge your legal duty-of-care when teaching courses. For example, if you have severe allergic reactions to insect stings that could cause you to go into shock and/or die, you have a duty to disclose. Or, if you have an existing back injury that is incompatible with suspension in a harness, this type of occupation may be unsuitable for you! NOTE: You have a duty to disclose any medical condition that compromises your safety or the safety of those who are under your supervision.
4	Minimum age		In Australia, the minimum legal age is 18 years - this marks the turning point when you are no longer considered to be a 'minor' (ie child). Instructors need to sign contracts and give technical advice, which involves a legal concept known as professional indemnity. In a nutshell, you can be held responsible for adverse effects caused by faulty advice or negligent actions.

PPE and EQUIPMENT
	ITEM	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
1	Equipment		You are expected to have all of your own personal protective equipment (PPE) for the course. This means you must have the following items as a minimum: [ ] harness [ ] helmet [ ] locking carabiners [ ] belay device (self-locking and manual type) [ ] accessory cord (different lengths) [ ] slings (tape/webbing) [ ] gloves [ ] small pulley (to aid in using haul systems) [ ] climbing shoes and chalk bag (if you are climbing) [ ] rope [ ] mechanical ascender / 'Jumar' (recommended) [ ] backpack - to store and carry all your gear! [ ] You should wear clothing that is appropriate to the site and the activity. [ ] You will need adequate sun protection. [ ] You will need a water bottle / hydration pack [ ] You will need to BYO lunch and snacks Learning support materials: [ ] electronic device to download, save and reference pdf files [ ] notebook + pen [ ] whiteboard + marker pens (normally pre-arranged)

LEARNING SUPPORT MATERIALS
	TITLE	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
1	Knot study guide Knots web page (PACI)	5.8 01 April 2023	PACI KNOT STUDY GUIDE The PACI knot study guide is an important learning resource. There is also a knot exam paper - it is an important check of your current knowledge about knots and knotting concepts. Download and save this document to your favourite electronic device (eg laptop). We don't recommend printing this out in hard copy because there are too many pages and you will run out of ink! Password = copyright You MUST practice tying knots BEFORE course commencement. You are expected to be proficient in tying knots! You will not be successful if you arrive on day 1 without having practiced any knots (expect to fail). There are additional resources at this web page for personal enrichment and expansion of your knowledge beyond the basics. If you are going to represent yourself as an 'instructor', your knowledge must be at a higher level than the people you are teaching! The following knots are considered fundamental to all roped activities at height: [ ] Figure 8 (#1047) - 2 different tying methods [ ] Butterfly (#1053) - 2 different tying methods [ ] Double fishermans (#1415) [ ] Prusik hitch (#1763) - 3 wrap version [ ] Double overhand noose (#409) [ ] Munter / Italian hitch (#206) Additional knots that are also important depending the activity: [ ] Double figure 8 (aka bunny ears) #1085 [ ] Clove hitch (#1245) [ ] Tensionless hitch (#2047) [ ] Klemheist (#1762) - where extra grip is required [ ] Tape knot (#1412) [ ] Secure Bowline (EBSB variant or Scotts locked Bowline)	24.7 MB
2	PACI Protocols	4.8  01/Aug/2024	This is a crucial document. All PACI training is referenced to this master document. This document outlines the protocols which govern all PACI activities at height. This masterwork is released into the public domain in an effort to improve safety and professional standards. You may not use this document for commercial gain and/or personal profit unless prior contractual terms have been agreed upon (ie a licence fee). It is an implied condition of use that users will acknowledge PACI Pty Ltd and Mark Gommers as the author and original copyright holder. PASSWORD = copyright Don't print this in hard copy because there are too many pages! If you are a professional Guide or Instructor - you should reference this document for all operating protocols at a workplace. Instructor candidates undertaking training and assessment should also reference this document. Legal notice: No document can be a substitute for competent, experienced instruction. To the maximum extent permitted under Australian law, PACI Pty Ltd and its Directors, employees, agents and business partners do not accept liability for death, injury or damages however caused or contributed to by the use of this document. Any reliance placed on this document is understood to be at your own risk. Uncontrolled copy	60.2 MB
3	Effect of water on climbing ropes: [ ] Karen Andrew report 2006 [ ] Technical paper on effects of moisture May 2011		These papers provide useful background information about the effects of moisture on dynamic ropes. Original copyright is held by the respective authors. They are not mandatory - they are additional resources to expand your knowledge.
4	Risk study guide Assessment tool		The risk study guide is an important learning resource. Content includes technical definitions, legal precedents from significant court cases and templates to assist you in developing you own activity plan and risk assessment. PASSWORD = copyright Additional risk management learning resources are located here... Link: Risk These additional resources are for expansion of your knowledge beyond the basics. When developing your activity plan (SWMS) and risk assessment, you should be aware of the risks of plagiarism. All trainee Guides and Instructors are expected to develop their own content based on their own efforts. If you are unsure about plagiarism, please visit these sites: Link: https://student.unsw.edu.au/what-plagiarism Link: http://www.kappanonline.org/cleary-top-10-reasons-students-plagiarize/ Link: http://www.pammarketingnut.com/2010/12/plagiarism-is-for-lazy-birds-27-common-sense-reasons-tips-to-create-your-own-content/	1.1 MB
5	Impact attenuation (floor/ground coverings)		This document provides an excellent overview of the Australian requirements for floor/ground covering at fixed artificial climbing structures. The requirements are based on playground standards. AS 2316.1 has the specification.

WRITTEN ASSIGNMENTS
	ITEM	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
Information: An important element of your training includes preparing and handing-in 2 written assignments. These assignments need to be completed outside of course contact hours. All Instructors need to have effective risk management skills to discharge their duties at a workplace. Effective risk management skills are also an Australian national competency requirement. Many outdoor recreation and work at height activities are regarded as high risk and as such, detailed plans need to be documented to manage those risks in a consistent and effective manner. Furthermore, it is a WHS legislative requirement that risks are identified and controlled at all workplaces.
1	Activity plan (Safe Work Method Statement) (Safe Work Method Statement) Download Template (word.doc) Download template (pdf) Scroll down for learning support materials Download the assessment tool here: Assessment tool		There are 2 mandatory assignments that all trainee Instructors are required to complete. These assignments form a major part of your assessment. The assignments are part of the risk management process which all trainee Instructors are required to achieve competency. Assignment 1 is the 'SWMS Activity plan'. Plagiarism is expressly forbidden. Assignment content must be your own work and not the work of someone else. Group collaboration is forbidden. Assignments must have your name, date and signature so it can be authenticated. Assignments must be handed-in in electronic 'PDF' format (not Word.doc or Word.docx). Assignments not meeting these criteria will be rejected. NOTE 1: The activity plan is in fact an expanded Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) - and the format and content requirements are identified in the WHS Regulations in all States (harmonised). The activity plan is not to be confused with a 'lesson plan' - it is a documented component of the overall risk management plan. NOTE 2: The activity plan is not intended as a substitute for an employee induction. New employees starting out at a workplace need to be 'inducted' (ie receive an orientation) as to how clients are managed including the particular nuances of how activities are conducted at a particular workplace. Every workplace is different (ie unique) and every employer has their own unique vision as to how business activities are to be conducted. Even highly experienced Instructors still need to receive an induction when they commence employment with a new company.
2	Risk assessment Download Template (word.doc) Download template (pdf) Scroll down for learning support materials		Assignment 2 is the 'risk assessment'. Plagiarism is expressly forbidden. Assignment content must be your own work and not the work of someone else. Group collaboration is forbidden. Candidates must write a risk assessment for each activity specialisation. For example, if a candidate is seeking to have abseiling + top rope climbing on natural surfaces on his/her scope, this requires two (2) risk assessments: 1: Abseiling; and 2: Top rope climbing. If caving and challenge ropes course (high elements) are also required, this adds another 2 risk assessments. However, only one (1) SWMS activity plan is required – regardless of the number of different activity specialisations. Assignments must have your name, date and signature so it can be authenticated. Assignments must be handed-in in electronic 'PDF' format (not Word.doc or Word.docx). Assignments not meeting these criteria will be rejected. NOTE: All activities that take place at height carry an inherent risk of injury and/or death. WHS legislation in all States require hazards and risks to be identified and controlled at a workplace (it is a legal obligation). All trainee Instructors are required to be competent in developing and documenting a risk assessment.

NOTE: Candidates are required to print the lesson assessment templates in hard copy format - for each of your assigned lessons. Candidates must give their lesson assessment template to their assessor at the start of their lesson - with your name clearly printed. Your assessor will use these forms to assess your presentations.

LESSON ASSESSMENT TEMPLATES
	TITLE	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
1	Height lesson		This is the generic assessment criteria for your 'Height' presentation. You will be presenting a live lesson at height - and your assessor will carefully observe and listen to your presentation.	412 KB
2	Ground lesson		This is the generic assessment criteria for your 'Ground' presentation. You will be presenting a live lesson at a ground environment - and your assessor will carefully observe and listen to your presentation.	412 KB
3	Theory (classroom) lesson		This is the generic lesson assessment criteria for all 'classroom' (theory) presentations. You will typically be presenting a core subject (eg M.A.) + one additional subject. Your assessor will observe and carefully listen to your presentations.	332 KB
4	Core theory lesson template: Mechanical advantage		This is a core subject area. All instructors must have sound knowledge of mechanical advantage. You will be presenting this lesson.	296 KB
5	Core theory lesson template: Carabiners		This is a core subject area. All instructors must have sound knowledge of carabiners. You will be presenting this lesson.	296 KB
6	Core theory lesson template: Dynamic ropes		This is a core subject area. All instructors must have sound knowledge of dynamic ropes. You will be presenting this lesson.	300 KB
7	Core theory lesson template: ABCDE safety checks		This is a core subject area. All instructors must have sound knowledge of ABCDE safety checks. You will be presenting this lesson.	300 KB

LESSON TOPICS
	THEORY TOPICS	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
1	Safety climbing calls		Safety communication calls used when climbing
2	Knots		[ ] Knots / Bends / Hitches [ ] Stability and security [ ] Testing
3	Low stretch ropes		[ ] EN1891 low stretch ropes
4	Rescue frames		[ ] Artificial High Directional (AHD) [ ] Compression member [ ] Frame configurations [ ] Vectors - 'resultant' [ ] Different brands - comparison
5	Stretchers / Litters		[ ] soft shell designs [ ] hard (rigid) shell designs [ ] not all stretchers are designed for rope suspension
6	Bolting		[ ] mechanical bolts [ ] chemical bolts [ ] interference fit (carrots) [ ] metals [ ] corrosion issues (SCC) [ ] lifespan
7	Styles of lead climbing		[ ] red point (compare and contrast redpoint with: 'YoYo') [ ] sieging a route [ ] pink point [ ] on-sight (also discuss 'on-sight flash') [ ] flash (also discuss 'beta flash' - current meaning) [ ] 'send' [ ] on-sight flash [ ] hang-dogging [ ] changing perceptions of meanings from 1960's to present day (explain) [ ] what is meant by 'ground-up' style? Discuss [ ] why is there a need to quantify different styles of lead climbing? Explain [ ] difficulties with attempting to quantify (measure) climbing styles - discuss (eg if a climber reads a guide-book for a route description; in doing so, does s/he forfeit an 'onsight' attempt? Discuss [ ] compare and contrast 'alpine style ascent' versus 'expedition/siege style' (mountaineering context) - draw relationship with attempting to quantify styles of mountaineering with the sport of rock climbing. Include the use of bottled oxygen in your discussion. [ ] include a brief overview of how sport climbing will be measured in the 2020 Olympic games (what are the proposed categories/disciplines?) Refer to following internet forums for discussion points: Link: https://www.ukclimbing.com/forums/t.php?t=600970 Link: http://www.rockclimbing.com/forum/Climbing_Information_C2/General_F23/Yo_Yo_-_definition_please_P1488044/
8	Risk management
9	Belay devices		[ ] history [ ] different types [ ] applications [ ] current trends from manufacturers [ ] ropes are getting thinner - what impact does this have on manufacturers and older belay devices that are nearing end-of-service life?
10	Removable protection devices		[ ] Wired nuts (passive)
11	Removable protection devices		[ ] Cams (active)
12	Grading systems		[ ] climbing [ ] compare different systems used in different countries [ ] how routes are graded
	HEIGHT TOPICS
1	Rope deployment
2	Fixed knot bypass
3	Transition through a re-anchor (re-belay)
4	Assisted abseil descent		[ ] accompanied descent with patient [ ] sharing a single belay/descending device [ ] improvised chest harness to prevent unconscious patient from inverting
5	Abseil with heavy backpack
6	Lowering		[ ] with fixed knot bypass through belay system [ ] while system is under continuous load (no standing on a ledge to remove load)
7	Ascend/descend a fixed rope		[ ] using slide-and-grip hitches [ ] using mechanical ascending devices
8	Build a top rope climbing anchor system		[ ] for top-managed belay [ ] for bottom-managed belay
9	Perform a pick-off / snatch rescue		[ ] abseiler in difficulty (unconscious / conscious) [ ] crashed into stopper knot - rope is too short
10	Setup a retrievable abseil system		[ ] double ropes [ ] end-to-end joining knot
11	Insert removable protection devices while leading route		[ ] trad routes - lead climbing
12	Lead climb a route		[ ] using double ropes (2 x half ropes) [ ] trad route
13	Build and operate a simple M.A. system		[ ] configuration [ ] resetting [ ] reversing and lowering while under load [ ] PCD [ ] efficiency/friction
14	Build and operate a compounding M.A. system		[ ] configuration [ ] resetting [ ] reversing and lowering while under load [ ] PCD [ ] efficiency/friction
15	Build and operate a reciprocation M.A. system		[ ] configuration [ ] resetting [ ] reversing and lowering while under load [ ] PCD [ ] efficiency/friction
16	Hair entrapment		[ ] eject hair caught up in belay device while lowering a climber (overhanging route)
17	Pole top rescue of a person		[ ] challenge ropes course [ ] simulating unconsciousness
18	Mid-span rescue of a person		[ ] challenge ropes course [ ] simulating unconsciousness
	GROUND TOPICS
	Same as above		[ ] Only difference is absence of exposed edge (over which a person could free-fall) [ ] immediate effects of gravitational energy are avoided because practice takes place on safe ground (level ground) - or very close to a solid surface (eg 600mm from the ground).

TRAINING PACKAGES
	TITLE	CODE	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
1	Outdoor recreation	SIS	2021	Outdoor recreation training package Link to training package: https://training.gov.au/training/details/sis Units of competency: [ ] SISOABS008: Lead single pitch abseiling activities on artificial surfaces [ ] SISOABS009: Lead single pitch abseiling activities on natural surfaces [ ] SISOABS010: Lead multi pitch abseiling activities on natural surfaces [ ] SISOCAY007: Lead canyoning activities, intermediate to advanced canyons [ ] SISOCHC004: Setup and supervise challenge course session, high elements [ ] SISOCLM008: Lead single pitch climbing activities on artificial surfaces, top rope climbing [ ] SISOCLM009: Lead single pitch climbing activities on natural surfaces, top rope climbing [ ] SISOCLM011: Lead multi pitch climbing activities on natural surfaces, lead climbing [ ] SISOCVE006: Lead caving activities
2	Industrial roping	RII	2.0	Resources Infrastructure Industry Training package Units of competency: [ ] RIIWHS204DE - Work Safely at Heights
3	Public safety	PUA	2019	Public Safety training package Units of competency: [ ] PUASAR032: Undertake vertical rescue

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