New pool building guide launched

The MBA joined with SPASA NSW to launch the joint MBA-SPASA Certificate IV qualification in pool building, including the Guide to Swimming Pool and Spa Construction (Concrete).

Paul Lawrence of the MBA said that builders should aim for a Level IV Certification, explaining the various levels. “Certificate Level I is like a school leaver or an apprentice,” he said. “Certificate Level II is like a general labourer who needs partial supervision; Certificate III is someone who can work in isolation; Certificate Level IV is someone who can supervise others, Certificate Level V (diploma level), is for those people who can project manage jobs and Certificate Level VI (advanced diploma) is for people who create and design. “We have successfully argued with the national body that pool builders are a Certificate Level IV. This is the same as most of the home builders in NSW.”

Lawrence also said that now, if residential home builders want to build swimming pools, there’s no problem. But they have to do the same level of training as a swimming pool builder. He said that many builders will already have the knowledge of a Certificate IV course. To gain recognition of prior learning (RPL), they have to answer a series of about 400 questions, and do 51 assessment tasks. It could involve paper tests in the classroom, supplying evidence of prior learning, and/or on-site assessment. A combination of these three types of assessment can be taken.

There is also a Certificate IV in Contract Administration for wives, partners and admin staff.

Anyone interested in the Certificate should contact Paul Lawrence or Dean Holmes on (02) 8586 3534.

The Guide to Swimming Pool and Spa Construction (Concrete) is available from SPASA NSW for $66 (incl GST).