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Registered Training Organisations and their Obligations

Each syllabus for the the 13 Units of Competency for the Certificate IV in Celebrancy is issued to Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) in a very detailed way.

There is an ethical and moral obligation imposed on the RTO to teach and assess responsibly. When an RTO certifies that an individual has a certain set of skills they should have them.

As we have seen lately in the Media (2010) this ethical obligation is more honoured in the breach than the observance.

Each syllabus contains divisions of the syllabus known as "Elements" (Essential outcomes) which is further divided into detailed lists of "Performance Critieria" - which "specify the level of performance required to demonstrate achievement of the Element."

As a thrice qualified (and experienced) teacher-Librarian I must say I really admire the detailed planning methodology which embodies the presentation of each Unit of Competency. ( I have grave reservations about some content and other aspects of the system.)

As well as the above, each Unit Syllabus sets out the "Required Knowledge and Skills" which should result at the end of the learning and training process.This is what I have provided for you here.

Pick one or two of these and read it -- and then tell me what you think an RTO must do to assess RPL or assess student work.

The assessment of the 13 Units of Competency require educational integrity. But does educational integrity matter any more?

Home Page | Certificate IV Table of Contents | International College of Celebrancy Portal Page

Required Knowledge and Skills
for 13 Units of Certificate IV in Celebrancy

1 - CHCADMIN305D
Work within the administration protocols of the organisation

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:
The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively perform task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills as outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit
These include knowledge of:
Organisation policies and procedures for recording information and keeping records
Organisation policies and procedures for maintaining supplies
Organisation policies and procedures for security and circulation
Recording mechanisms
Organisation policies and procedures for incoming and outgoing mail
Locations and titles of personnel
Australia Post specifications for mail
Confidentiality requirements
OHS requirements applying to use of basic workplace technology and equipment

Essential skills:
It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to:
Identify and follow relevant policies, guidelines and procedures of the organisation relating to administrative duties
Complete documentation, if required by organisation/service
Demonstrate competency over the full range of equipment that the worker would be expected to use.

In addition, the candidate must be able to demonstrate relevant task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills
These include the ability to:
Use workplace equipment appropriate to job role
Apply language, literacy and numeracy competence appropriate to the requirements of the organisation and client group:
this may range from oral communication skills if reporting verbally, to writing skills if filling in work forms
organisation’s forms may also vary in complexity
language used may be English or a community language
Use information systems and technology
Apply oral communication skills required to fulfil the job role in the organisation/ service:
oral skills may include listening to enquiries to providing simple factual information relevant to the workplace and client group
language used may be English or community language depending on the client group
Apply literacy competence required to fulfil the procedures of the organisation/service, and according to the support available in the workplace:
writing skills may range from the need to fill out a simple form to completion of a short report
reading skills may range from understanding the names on envelopes/ correspondence to reading pamphlets to determine their relevance to an enquiry
Apply numeracy competence required to fulfil the procedures of the organisation/ service, and according to the support available in the workplace:
numeracy tasks may range from the need to count supplies to recording information on organisation forms.


2- CHCCEL401A Work effectively in a celebrancy role

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:
The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively perform task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills as outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit
These include:
Awareness of the history of ritual and ceremony, including both religious and secular focus
Function and importance of ritual (ceremony/ group support) and story telling times of change, and in particular human life stages from birth to death
Broad understanding of the role of the celebrant in Australian culture in 21st century
Structure and function of ceremony and role of celebrant
The public role and legal importance of different kinds of ceremony
Recognition of range of ritual and ceremonial expression across different cultures
Understanding of how ceremonies signpost a culture
Benefits of ceremony and ritual to society
Art and craft in the delivery of ceremony
Broad knowledge of stages of human development and psychology of change
Understanding of importance in relation to celebrancy of:
client centred focus
ethical and moral issues
distinctions between religious and civil ceremony content i.e. Church vs State issues
Legal and practical information, such as:
Awareness of Commonwealth, State and Territory discrimination laws
Detailed knowledge of responsibilities in accepting a statutory declaration (Statutory Declarations Act 1959)
Copyright Act (1968) especially applicability of the use of material in ceremonies
Understanding that celebrants have an obligation to protect privacy and maintain confidentiality (Privacy Act 1988)
Understanding of obligations relevant to operating as a celebrant within the Trade Practices Act (Trade Practices Act 1974)
Understanding and awareness of cultural rights, multicultural contributions, and the place of the arts in culture and ceremony
Understanding of and committed attitude to ongoing professional development
Conflict of interest issues in a celebrancy role
Resources and associated costs required to establish, support and maintain a celebrancy service/home based small business, including:
insurance (public liability, professional indemnity, accident and other)
professional association membership
professional development
Current knowledge of OHS issues and management of potential emergency situations as they apply to the celebrancy work role and range of work environments, including:
legal requirements relating to OHS
basic hazard identification procedures such as venue/environmental inspections and review of associated safety information and procedures
principles of basic risk assessment
hierarchy of control and its application in risk management
processes for raising OHS issues, reporting hazards, incidents and injuries and OHS issue resolution
potential emergency situations, alarms and signals and appropriate response

Essential skills:
It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to:
Personalise a ceremony or ritual to address specific identified client needs
Incorporate visual and performing arts in ceremony and ritual appropriately in a manner that addresses client needs
Facilitate ceremonies in a manner that demonstrates cultural and social respect
Manage ceremonies consistent with the celebrant’s responsibility towards the value of ceremony, ritual and symbolism
Conduct an effective ceremony including use of additional materials
Research internet and other sources for ceremony and celebrant related information and resources and support

In addition, the candidate must be able to demonstrate relevant task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills
These include the ability to:
Adhere to all required legislation
Deliver the agreed format and content of the ceremony
Determine content for ceremony, distinguishing between appropriate religious and civil ceremony content in line with client requirements
Determine and understand client needs and assist clients to feel at ease
Work with culturally diverse people in a ‘celebrancy’ context and demonstrate understanding of the role of various kinds of ceremony such as marriage or funeral ceremonies, in different cultural contexts
Demonstrate effective communication skills, including:
speaking in public
speaking in a firm, diplomatic and culturally appropriate manner
provide clear information, listen to and understand the needs of clients, and clarify ceremony instructions
maintain awareness of and sensitivity to clients needs (e.g. demonstrate sensitivity to issues of ethnic, religious beliefs, cultural background, language levels, personal capabilities of clients)
confirm procedures with translator as necessary
Ability to:
Complete essential legal documents accurately
Refer persons to appropriate authority for further information
Provide ceremony resources that are varied, presentable and well maintained
Use verbal and non-verbal skills to initiate and sustain participant engagement
Research, develop and maintain a data base of appropriate poetry, prose, symbols, music, ceremony accessories, and other ceremony content for a range of ceremonies and clients
Consider and provide appropriate acknowledgement of ‘First Australians’ and/ or ‘Welcome to Country’ and any other persons or groups relevant to the place and provision of the ceremony
Use celebrant support services such as Attorney-General’s Department, state and territory registries of births, deaths and marriages, celebrant associations or religious affiliations as appropriate
Demonstrate language and literacy competence, including:
literacy competence to satisfactorily fulfil the role of a celebrant including the ability to interpret legal requirements
using appropriate ritual and symbols in ceremony
language competence to provide clear information, listen to and understand the needs of clients and clarify ceremony instructions
succinct and clear written expression, in a style that addresses its purpose and suits audience needs
Demonstrate effective presentation skills, including:
presenting materials for ceremony professionally
controlling assembly of clients and guests with discretion
projecting voice effectively before an audience
demonstrating discretion in terms of any perceived or actual disruption during ceremony
conducting ceremony with flow and continuity
demonstrating respect and courtesy to clients, guests and other participants
(i.e. photographer, musicians, translator) before, during and following the ceremony
conveying an attitude of professionalism and compassion
using effective problem solving skills to clarify any legal or other business issues arising
Demonstrate management and administrative skills, including:
using effective techniques for monitoring own service area including client satisfaction
applying numeracy skills including satisfactory record-keeping
providing honest and open information re fees and monies refundable and in what circumstances
ensuring arrival at venue at agreed time.



3- CHCCEL406A - Identify and address client needs in a celebrancy role

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:
The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively perform task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills as outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit
These include knowledge of:
Relevant legislative and statutory requirements and provisions relating to provision of celebrancy services
Standards and code of ethics relevant to celebrancy
Stages of human development and broad knowledge of psychology of change as a basis for determining specific nature of client requirements
Recognition of range of ritual and ceremonial expression across different cultures
Understanding of importance in relation to celebrancy of:
client-centred focus
ethical and moral issues
distinctions between religious and civil ceremony content i.e. Church vs State issues
Understanding and awareness of cultural rights, multicultural contributions, and the place of the arts in culture and ceremony

Essential skills:
It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to:
Determine and understand client needs and expectations and assist clients to feel at ease
Demonstrate effective communication skills, including:
providing clear information, listening to and understanding the needs and expectations of clients, and clarifying ceremony requirements
maintaining awareness of and sensitivity to clients needs (e.g. sensitivity to issues of ethnic, religious beliefs, cultural background, language levels, personal capabilities of clients)
confirming procedures with translator as necessary
Identify client needs and expectations and match available services to address those needs, in conjunction with the client
Demonstrate respect and courtesy to clients

In addition, the candidate must be able to demonstrate relevant task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills
These include the ability to:
Personalise a ceremony or ritual to address specific identified client needs and expectations
Demonstrate language and literacy competence, including:
literacy competence to satisfactorily fulfil the role of a celebrant including the ability to interpret legal requirements
language competence to provide clear information, listen to and understand the needs of clients and clarify ceremony instructions
Convey an attitude of professionalism and compassion
Use effective problem solving skills to clarify any legal or other business issues arising.


4 -CHCCOM403A - Use targeted communication skills to build relationships

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:
It is critical that the candidate demonstrate knowledge of:
• Effective communication strategies and techniques to address barriers and build and maintain relationships
• Recognition of communication styles of individuals
• Basic group dynamics and facilitation of group discussion

The candidate must also be able to demonstrate relevant knowledge required to effectively perform task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills as outlined in elements and performance criteria, such as knowledge of:
• Cross cultural communication protocols
• Non-verbal communication strategies
• Communication techniques to maintain constructive interactions
• Barriers to communication

Essential skills:
It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to:
• Provide evidence that all communication with clients and colleagues is appropriate to individual needs and the situation and promotes achievement of organisation objectives
• Use strategies to meet particular communication needs/difficulties
• Address individual issues in a timely way and in a manner which maintains the integrity of the individual
• Know when to provide referrals to conflict resolution and mediation

In addition, the candidate must be able to demonstrate relevant task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills
These include the ability to:
• Apply a full range of communication techniques including:
- reflective and active listening, respectful responding, empathy, feedback and rapport
- addressing communication barriers through application of a range of strategies
- recognition of non-verbal triggers
- clarification of boundaries of work role
• Apply oral communication skills required to fulfil job roles as specified by the organisation/service:
- skills in asking questions, providing clear information, listening to and understanding workplace instructions, and clarifying workplace instructions when necessary
- service/organisation may require competence in English or community language, depending on client group.



5- CHCCS400A - Work within a relevant legal and ethical framework

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:
It is critical that the candidate demonstrate knowledge of:
• Specific principles underpinning duty of care and associated legal requirements
• Outline of common legal issues relevant to the workplace
• Overview of relevant legislation in the sector and jurisdictions
• Relevant standards and codes of practice in the sector
• Rights and responsibilities of clients
• Rights and responsibilities of workers
• Principles and practices for upholding the rights of the client
• Strategies for managing complaints
• Principles and practices of confidentiality
• Importance of ethics in practice
• Distinction between ethical and legal problems
• Strategies for addressing common ethical issues
• Strategies for contributing to the review and development of policies and protocols
• Occupational health and safety (OHS) requirements

The candidate must also be able to demonstrate relevant knowledge required to effectively perform task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills as outlined in elements and performance criteria, such as knowledge of:
• Overview of the legal system
• Types of law
• Principles and practices for upholding the rights of the children and young people
• Principles of ethical decision-making
• Types of abuse experienced by client (including systems abuse)
• Strategies for managing abuse of a client
• Reporting mechanisms for suspected abuse of a client

Essential skills:
It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to:
• Demonstrate understanding of and adherence to own work role and responsibilities
• Follow organisation policies, protocols and procedures
• Work within legal and ethical frameworks

In addition, the candidate must be able to demonstrate relevant task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills
These include the ability to:
• Apply reading and writing skills required to fulfil work role in a safe manner and as specified by the organisation
• Apply oral communication skills required to fulfil work role in a safe manner and as specified by the organisation
• Apply problem solving skills that require negotiation to resolve problems of a difficult nature within organisation protocols
• Consult with a variety of stakeholders in order to achieve service objectives.



6 - CHCCEL402A - Establish and maintain knowledge of legal responsibilities of a marriage celebrant

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:
The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively perform task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills as outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit
These include knowledge of:
• Marriage Act:
- knowledge of the obligations and responsibilities of a marriage celebrant according to the Marriage Act and Marriage Regulations and Code of Practice
- knowledge of all documentation which must be sighted before a marriage can take place
- knowledge of offences under the Marriage Act
• Other Legislation
- general knowledge of aspects of Commonwealth Migration, Privacy, Trade Practices, Commonwealth Statutory Declarations and Copyright Acts relevant to performing the role of a marriage celebrant
- awareness of Commonwealth discrimination laws as well as those in each state and territory
- knowledge of the processes and procedures of State/territory Registrars of Births, Deaths and Marriages
- Statutory Declarations Act 1959 (Cwlth):
- detailed knowledge of responsibilities in accepting a Commonwealth Statutory Declaration
• Migration Act 1958:
- broad understanding of immigration laws and the issues that may arise for parties who do not have permanent residency status and wish to marry
- awareness that marriage does not automatically give permanent residency
• Copyright Act 1968 especially applicability of the use of material in ceremonies
• Privacy Act 1988
- understanding that celebrants have an obligation to protect privacy and maintain confidentiality
• Trade Practices Act 1974
- understanding of obligations relevant to operating as a marriage celebrant within the Trade Practices Act; and
- knowledge of where to locate relevant information
• Marriage/relationship education services – knowledge of pre-marriage and other relationship education services
• Knowledge of sources of legal and practical information

Essential skills:
It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to:
• Comply with all obligations and responsibilities under the Marriage Act
• Adhere to all required legislation
• Provide information about the availability of relationship education services
• Explain the key features of the Marriage Act 1961
• Accurately complete essential legal documents
• Locate the relevant information for other state/territory legislation as required (such as local government parks and gardens, State and Territory registering authorities)

In addition, the candidate must be able to demonstrate relevant task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills
These include the ability to:
• Refer persons to appropriate authority for further information
• Provide ceremony resources that are varied, presentable and well maintained
• Demonstrate language and literacy competence, including:
- literacy competence to satisfactorily fulfil the role of a marriage celebrant including the ability to interpret legal requirements and Commonwealth policies and procedures
language competence to convey legal requirements to marrying couples


7 - CHCCEL403A - Develop an effective relationship with a marrying couple

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:

The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively perform task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills as outlined in the elements and performance criteria of this unit, including:
• Knowledge of sources of legal and practical information;
• Understanding and awareness of cultural rights, multicultural contributions, and the place of the arts in culture and ceremony
• Knowledge of the importance of ceremony and ritual in community and family life
• Understanding of client liaison techniques
• Understanding of and a commitment to ongoing professional development
• Elements of conducting an effective ceremony including use of additional materials
• Basic knowledge of stages of human development and recognise potential impacts on the marrying couple’s expectations of the celebrant and each other

The candidate must also be able to apply knowledge outlined in CHCCEL402A Establish and maintain knowledge of legal responsibilities of a marriage celebrant, including:
• Marriage Act:
- knowledge of the obligations and responsibilities of a marriage celebrant according to the Marriage Act and Marriage Regulations and Code of Practice
- knowledge of all documentation which must be sighted before a marriage can take place
- knowledge of offences under the Marriage Act
• Other Legislation
- general knowledge of aspects of Commonwealth Migration, Privacy, Trade Practices, Commonwealth Statutory Declarations and Copyright Acts relevant to performing the role of a marriage celebrant
- awareness of Commonwealth discrimination laws as well as those in each state and territory
- knowledge of the processes and procedures of State/territory Registrars of Births, Deaths and Marriages
- Statutory Declarations Act 1959 (Cwlth):
- detailed knowledge of responsibilities in accepting a Commonwealth Statutory Declaration
• Migration Act 1958:
- broad understanding of immigration laws and the issues that may arise for parties who do not have permanent residency status and wish to marry
- awareness that marriage does not automatically give permanent residency
• Copyright Act 1968 especially applicability of the use of material in ceremonies
continued …
Essential knowledge (contd):
• Privacy Act 1988
- understanding that celebrants have an obligation to protect privacy and maintain confidentiality
• Trade Practices Act 1974
- understanding of obligations relevant to operating as a marriage celebrant within the Trade Practices Act; and
- knowledge of where to locate relevant information
• Marriage/relationship education services – knowledge of pre-marriage and other relationship education services

Essential skills:
It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to:
• Comply with all obligations and responsibilities under the Marriage Act
• Adhere to all required legislation
• Provide information about the availability of relationship education services
• Convey a non-judgemental attitude towards marrying couple
• Determine and understand marrying couple’s needs and assist them to feel at ease

In addition, the candidate must be able to demonstrate relevant task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills
These include the ability to:
• Establish networks with relevant marriage/relationship education service provider/s
• Deliver the agreed format and content of the ceremony
• Facilitate ceremonies in a manner that demonstrates cultural and social respect
• Manage ceremonies consistent with the celebrant’s responsibility towards the significance of marriage
• Demonstrate effective communication skills, including:
- speaking in a firm, diplomatic and culturally appropriate manner
- providing clear information, listen to and understand the needs of marrying couple, and clarify ceremony instructions
- effective and empathetic listening skills while avoiding acting as a counsellor or educator
- maintaining awareness of and sensitivity to needs of marrying couple (e.g. demonstrate sensitivity to issues of race, religious beliefs, cultural background, language levels, personal capabilities of marrying couple)
- discussing appropriate check/to do lists with couple
- summarising and clarifying issues covered during consultation interviews prior to conduct of ceremony
- effective negotiation skills
- effective conflict resolution skills
- confirming procedures with translator as necessary
• Apply effective management skills
• Explain the key features of the Marriage Act 1961
• Accurately complete essential legal documents
• Access information about and an understanding of GST and its application
• Locate the relevant information for other state/territory legislation as required (such as local government parks and gardens, State and Territory registering authorities)
• Refer persons to appropriate authority for further information
• Provide ceremony resources that are varied, presentable and well maintained
• Work with others and display empathy
Ability to:
• Demonstrate language and literacy competence, including:
- literacy competence to satisfactorily fulfil the role of a marriage celebrant including the ability to interpret legal requirements and commonwealth policies and procedures
- use appropriate ritual and symbols in ceremony
- language competence to convey legal requirements to marrying couples, to provide clear information, listen to and understand the needs of marrying couples and clarify ceremony instructions
• Apply problem solving skills including the ability to work with a group and calmly manage disruptions
• Demonstrate effective presentation skills, including:
- presenting materials for ceremony professionally; and controlled assembly of wedding party and guests with discretion
- effective projection of voice and ability to work in public before an audience
- demonstrating discretion in terms of any perceived or actual disruption during ceremony
- conducting ceremony with flow and continuity
- introducing couple in the manner previously agreed
- presentation of a complete and professional folder of ceremony to couple
- demonstrating respect and courtesy to wedding party, guests and other participants
(i.e. photographer, musicians, translator) before, during and following the ceremony
- consultation and presentation skills including an ability to convey an attitude of professionalism and compassion
- using effective problem solving skills to clarify any legal or other business issues arising
- departing tactfully and at the appropriate time
• Demonstrate management and administrative skills, including:
- effectively using techniques for monitoring own service area including client satisfaction
- applying numeracy skills including satisfactory record-keeping
- being honest and open in terms of fees and what monies are refundable and in what circumstances
- using effective time management skills to ensure arrival at venue at agreed time
- checking any equipment or resources as necessary
- following up on any outstanding issues
- contributing to revision of procedures and guidelines as appropriate.



7- CHCCEL404A - Plan a marriage ceremony in line with legal requirements

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:
The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively perform task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills as outlined in the elements and performance criteria of this unit, including:
• Knowledge of sources of legal and practical information
• Understanding and awareness of cultural rights, multicultural contributions, and the place of the arts in culture and ceremony
• Knowledge of the importance of ceremony and ritual in community and family life
• Understanding of client liaison techniques
• Understanding of and a commitment to ongoing professional development
• Elements of conducting an effective ceremony including use of additional materials

The candidate must also be able to apply knowledge outlined in CHCCEL402A Establish and maintain knowledge of legal responsibilities of a marriage celebrant, including:
• Marriage Act:
- knowledge of the obligations and responsibilities of a marriage celebrant according to the Marriage Act and Marriage Regulations and Code of Practice
- knowledge of all documentation which must be sighted before a marriage can take place
- knowledge of offences under the Marriage Act
• Other Legislation
- general knowledge of aspects of Commonwealth Migration, Privacy, Trade Practices, Commonwealth Statutory Declarations and Copyright Acts relevant to performing the role of a marriage celebrant
- awareness of Commonwealth discrimination laws as well as those in each state and territory
- knowledge of the processes and procedures of State/territory Registrars of Births, Deaths and Marriages
• Statutory Declarations Act 1959 (Cwlth):
- detailed knowledge of responsibilities in accepting a Commonwealth Statutory Declaration
• Migration Act 1958:
- broad understanding of immigration laws and the issues that may arise for parties who do not have permanent residency status and wish to marry
- awareness that marriage does not automatically give permanent residency
• Copyright Act 1968 especially applicability of the use of material in ceremonies
• Privacy Act 1988
- understanding that celebrants have an obligation to protect privacy and maintain confidentiality
continued …
Essential knowledge (contd):
• Trade Practices Act 1974
- understanding of obligations relevant to operating as a marriage celebrant within the Trade Practices Act
- knowledge of where to locate relevant information
• Marriage/relationship education services – knowledge of pre-marriage and other relationship education services


8 - CHCCEL404A - Plan a marriage ceremony in line with legal requirements

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:
The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively perform task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills as outlined in the elements and performance criteria of this unit, including:
• Knowledge of sources of legal and practical information
• Understanding and awareness of cultural rights, multicultural contributions, and the place of the arts in culture and ceremony
• Knowledge of the importance of ceremony and ritual in community and family life
• Understanding of client liaison techniques
• Understanding of and a commitment to ongoing professional development
• Elements of conducting an effective ceremony including use of additional materials

The candidate must also be able to apply knowledge outlined in CHCCEL402A Establish and maintain knowledge of legal responsibilities of a marriage celebrant, including:
• Marriage Act:
- knowledge of the obligations and responsibilities of a marriage celebrant according to the Marriage Act and Marriage Regulations and Code of Practice
- knowledge of all documentation which must be sighted before a marriage can take place
- knowledge of offences under the Marriage Act
• Other Legislation
- general knowledge of aspects of Commonwealth Migration, Privacy, Trade Practices, Commonwealth Statutory Declarations and Copyright Acts relevant to performing the role of a marriage celebrant
- awareness of Commonwealth discrimination laws as well as those in each state and territory
- knowledge of the processes and procedures of State/territory Registrars of Births, Deaths and Marriages
• Statutory Declarations Act 1959 (Cwlth):
- detailed knowledge of responsibilities in accepting a Commonwealth Statutory Declaration
• Migration Act 1958:
- broad understanding of immigration laws and the issues that may arise for parties who do not have permanent residency status and wish to marry
- awareness that marriage does not automatically give permanent residency
• Copyright Act 1968 especially applicability of the use of material in ceremonies
• Privacy Act 1988
- understanding that celebrants have an obligation to protect privacy and maintain confidentiality
continued …
Essential knowledge (contd):
• Trade Practices Act 1974
- understanding of obligations relevant to operating as a marriage celebrant within the Trade Practices Act
- knowledge of where to locate relevant information
• Marriage/relationship education services – knowledge of pre-marriage and other relationship education services

Essential skills:
It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to:
• Comply with all obligations and responsibilities under the Marriage Act
• Adhere to all required legislation
• Provide information about the availability of relationship education services
• Convey a non-judgemental attitude towards marrying couples
• Plan marriage ceremonies consistent with the celebrant’s responsibility towards the significance of marriage
• Determine and understand marrying couples’ needs and assist them to feel at ease

In addition, the candidate must be able to demonstrate relevant task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills
These include the ability to:
• Demonstrate effective communication skills, including:
- speaking in a firm, diplomatic and culturally appropriate manner
- providing clear information, listening to and understanding the needs of marrying couples, and clarifying ceremony instructions
- applying effective and empathic listening skills while avoiding acting as a counsellor or educator
- maintaining awareness of and sensitivity to marrying couples’ needs (e.g. sensitivity to issues of race, religious beliefs, cultural background, language levels, personal capabilities of marrying couples)
- discussing appropriate check/to do lists with couple
- summarising and clarifying issues covered during consultation interviews prior to conduct of ceremony
- using effective negotiation skills
- using effective conflict resolution skills
- confirming procedures with translator as necessary
• Explain the key features of the Marriage Act 1961
• Accurately complete essential legal documents
• Locate the relevant information for other state/territory legislation as required (such as local government parks and gardens, state and territory registering authorities)
• Refer persons to appropriate authority for further information
• Provide ceremony resources that are varied, presentable and well maintained
• Work with others and display empathy
• Demonstrate language and literacy competence, including:
- literacy competence to satisfactorily fulfil the role of a marriage celebrant including the ability to interpret legal requirements and Commonwealth policies and procedures
- use of appropriate ritual and symbols in ceremony
language competence to provide clear information, listen to and understand the needs of marrying couples and clarify ceremony instructions.


9 -CHCCEL405a -Conduct and review a marriage ceremony in line with legal requirements

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:
The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively perform task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills as outlined in the elements and performance criteria of this unit, including:
• Knowledge of sources of legal and practical information;
• Understanding and awareness of cultural rights, multicultural contributions, and the place of the arts in culture and ceremony.
• Knowledge of the importance of ceremony and ritual in community and family life
• Understanding of client liaison techniques
• Understanding of and a commitment to ongoing professional development
• Elements of conducting an effective ceremony including use of additional materials

The candidate must also be able to apply knowledge outlined in CHCCEL402A Establish and maintain knowledge of legal responsibilities of a marriage celebrant, including:
• Marriage Act:
- knowledge of the obligations and responsibilities of a marriage celebrant according to the Marriage Act and Marriage Regulations and Code of Practice
- knowledge of all documentation which must be sighted before a marriage can take place
- knowledge of offences under the Marriage Act
• Other legislation
- general knowledge of aspects of Commonwealth Migration, Privacy, Trade Practices, Commonwealth Statutory Declarations and Copyright Acts relevant to performing the role of a marriage celebrant
- awareness of Commonwealth discrimination laws as well as those in each state and territory
- knowledge of the processes and procedures of State/territory Registrars of Births, Deaths and Marriages
• Statutory Declarations Act 1959 (Cwlth):
- detailed knowledge of responsibilities in accepting a Commonwealth Statutory Declaration
• Migration Act 1958:
- broad understanding of immigration laws and the issues that may arise for parties who do not have permanent residency status and wish to marry
- awareness that marriage does not automatically give permanent residency
• Copyright Act 1968 especially applicability of the use of material in ceremonies
• Privacy Act 1988
- understanding that celebrants have an obligation to protect privacy and maintain confidentiality
continued …
Essential knowledge (contd):
• Trade Practices Act 1974
- understanding of obligations relevant to operating as a marriage celebrant within the Trade Practices Act; and
- knowledge of where to locate relevant information
• Marriage/Relationship Education Services – knowledge of pre-marriage and other relationship education services



10 - CHCCS426A - Provide support and care relating to loss and grief

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:
The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively perform task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills as outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit
These include knowledge of:
• Potential impact of specific loss(es) and common features of grief and bereavement at the individual, family and community level
• Potential impact of specific loss(es) and common features of trauma at the individual, family and community level
• Potential impact of specific loss(es) and common features of complex grief at the individual, family and community level
• Reactions to loss and associated expressions of grief and bereavement
• Awareness of how loss, grief and bereavement can impact on social and emotional health and well being
• Integration of loss
• Distinctive social, cultural, ethnic and spiritual differences in loss, grief and bereavement
• Awareness of the context and circumstances prior to loss and their impact on grief and bereavement
• Awareness of the broad spectrum of loss
• Strategies for formal and informal grief and bereavement support
• Available grief and bereavement care services and information resources
• Understanding of a ‘stress vulnerability model’

Essential skills:
It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to:
• Recognise expressions of loss, grief, trauma and bereavement
• Respond appropriately to a range of approaches and responses to loss, grief and trauma
• Engage with individuals experiencing loss, grief trauma and bereavement with empathy, sensitivity, professionalism and courtesy
• Refer individuals who show some signs of mental illness to appropriate services

In addition, the candidate must be able to demonstrate relevant task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills
These include the ability to:
• Apply verbal and non-verbal approaches to dealing with and responding to grieving individuals
• Use effective communication skills, including:
- empathic listening skills
- use appropriate communication techniques to respond to individual needs
- provide information clearly and sensitively
- obtain feedback to confirm understanding
• Maintain documentation as required, including effective use of relevant information technology in line with occupational health and safety (OHS) guidelines

 



11 - SIFFNL003A Arrange funerals

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:
The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively perform task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills as outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit
These include knowledge of:
• burial procedures
• social, religious and cultural differences and traditions
• professional funeral services industry parameters in dealing with the deceased and the bereaved
• broad working knowledge of relevant federal, state or territory, and local government legislation and regulations relating to consumer protection, and funeral arrangements and associated documentation
• workplace policies and procedures regarding arranging funerals.

Essential skills:
Ability to:
• communication skills, including clear and direct communication and active listening and questioning techniques, using language and concepts appropriate to cultural differences and using and interpreting non verbal communication to identify and confirm client requirements
• organisational and self management skills to complete required tasks according to client requirements, workplace policies and procedures, and required timeframes
• problem solving skills to deal with contingencies when scheduling burials or cremations
• teamwork skills to consult with colleagues to identify and organise required resources
• literacy and numeracy skills to accurately complete and review relevant documentation
• interpersonal skills to relate to people from a range of social, cultural, religious and ethnic backgrounds and with a range of physical and mental abilities
customer service skills, including ability to maintain confidentiality of client information.


12 - SIFFNL009A Plan and conduct a funeral ceremony

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:
The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively perform task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills as outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit
The following knowledge must be assessed as part of this unit:
• burial and inurnment procedures
• social, religious and cultural differences and traditions
• professional funeral services industry parameters and protocols in dealing with the bereaved and the deceased
• workplace policies and procedures regarding performing funeral celebrancy.

Essential skills:
The following skills must be assessed as part of this unit:
• communication skills, including clear and direct communication and active listening and questioning techniques, to develop knowledge of the deceased and make effective public presentations during funeral ceremonies
• planning skills to develop structured funeral ceremony presentations according to required timeframe
• organisational skills to identify and organise required resources
• literacy and numeracy skills to develop and review written funeral speeches and meet agreed timeframes for performance of ceremony
• interpersonal skills to relate to people from a range of social, cultural, religious and ethnic backgrounds and with a range of physical and mental abilities
customer service skills, including ability to maintain confidentiality of client information.


13 - SIFIND001A Work effectively in the funeral services industry

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:
The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively perform task skills; task management skills; contingency management skills and job/role environment skills as outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit
The following knowledge must be assessed as part of this unit:
• workplace policies and procedures
• workplace organisational structure
• stakeholders and structure of the funeral services industry
• broad understanding of relevant federal, state or territory, and local government legislation and regulations applying to the funeral services industry
• industry awards and agreements.

Essential skills:
The following skills must be assessed as part of this unit:
• ability to comply with workplace policies and procedures and industry protocols
• self management, planning and organisational skills to manage work activities
• problem solving skills in teams and individually to deal with contingencies
• communication skills, including clear and direct communication, active listening and questioning techniques and using and interpreting non verbal communication to effectively liaise with others
• literacy and numeracy skills to source, follow, interpret and complete workplace documentation.

International College of Celebrancy Courses

Portal Page or Yvonne Werner 9419 0460 or 0411 128 285