Developing Capability in Peer-Assisted Learning
The Australasian PASS Alliance supports excellence in peer learning practice by delivering internationally accredited professional development programs designed for PASS Supervisors, Coordinators and experienced practitioners. Our training pathways strengthen skills across program design, leadership, strategic implementation and community-wide collaboration.
APA’s professional development offerings draw on deep regional expertise and internationally recognised frameworks. Accredited training builds capability in program leadership, quality assurance, evaluation and sustainable practice, and fosters a connected community of practice across Australasia.
Participating in APA’s professional development pathways strengthens individual capability and ensures high-quality implementation of peer learning initiatives across institutions. Accredited training supports quality assurance, enhances leadership practice, and contributes to student success outcomes throughout the Australasian higher education sector.
PASS Supervisor Training
Online via Microsoft Teams or in person training
This internationally recognised training is essential for anyone responsible for coordinating, developing or overseeing a PASS or PAL program. Developed by the Australasian PASS Alliance’s expert team with over 100 years of combined PASS experience, this 2.5-day course provides both practical knowledge and strategic insight into effective PASS leadership.
Participants will gain:
- Foundations and history of PASS and structured peer learning
- Program setup, operational best practice and quality assurance
- Recruitment, training and management of PASS Leaders
- Facilitation, collaborative learning and engagement strategies
- Tools for marketing, budgeting and evaluating program impact
Participants receive PASS Supervisor and PASS Leader manuals, comprehensive training materials and resources, and a certificate of PASS accreditation. Accreditation is held by the individual Supervisor/Coordinator, not the institution.
Advanced PASS Supervisor Training
Online via Microsoft Teams or in person training
Designed for experienced Accredited PASS Supervisors, this Advanced Training deepens leadership capability and develops strategic program management skills. It supports the transition from operational delivery to innovation, mentoring and long-term sustainability.
Over two days, we will tailor the training to the needs of the group but popular topics include:
- Development of Senior Leader structures and mentoring programs
- Sharing innovative practice and emerging initiatives
- Building professional development programs for PASS Leaders
- Marketing, engagement and online collaborative strategies
- Aligning PASS with institutional strategic priorities
These two days were certainly a worthwhile investment in reinforcing and building on our existing PASS knowledge base, reviewing processes, identifying challenges, and brainstorming solutions, and learning from insight and best practise in other institutions.
I found this a very rewarding experience and am going away with a deeper understanding of PASS, lots of new ideas, and a renewed passion for peer learning.
The part I enjoyed most was the supportive environment, the mix of experiences, the sharing of ideas and best practice.
Connecting, Sharing, Learning Together
The Australasian PASS Alliance Seminars and Community Catch-Ups are free, informal professional learning opportunities designed to bring together PASS Coordinators, Supervisors, Leaders and peer learning practitioners from across the region. These sessions provide a space to share emerging practice, reflect on current issues, explore innovative approaches, and strengthen connections across the PASS community of practice. Participation supports ongoing development and fosters a culture of collaborative learning and collegial support.
APA has a strong history of running engaging and practical sessions on topics of contemporary relevance.
Past examples include:
Operationalising AI in the PASS Context: Case Study, Workshop & Q&A
Rochelle Dowsett (University of New England) presented a hands-on session on real-world use of generative AI tools in peer learning. Attendees explored ethical AI applications, prompt design fundamentals, and custom AI assistants tailored to peer support contexts.
Creating Neuroaffirming PASS Sessions
A Community Catch-Up with Dr. Kathy French (University of Tasmania) exploring strategies to make PASS environments more inclusive and accessible for neurodivergent students. This session covered neurodiversity-related factors such as executive function, sensory sensitivities and learning differences, and practical ways to support all learners to thrive.