How Do Australian TAFE Institutions Utilise BKSB Literacy and Numeracy Diagnostic Results to Decide Whether Students Require Foundation Skills Courses?
Australian TAFE (Technical and Further Education) institutions play a crucial role in preparing students for vocational education pathways. To ensure learners have the skills needed to succeed in certificate and diploma-level study, many TAFE providers use the Basic Key Skills Builder (BKSB) diagnostic assessment. This tool measures literacy and numeracy proficiency, helping educators determine whether a student requires additional foundation skills support before progressing into higher-level vocational training.
This article explains how TAFE institutions apply BKSB results, why they matter, and what students can expect during the process.
What Is the BKSB Test?
The BKSB test is an internationally recognised online assessment tool that evaluates a student’s English (literacy) and maths (numeracy) capabilities. It provides both a diagnostic test to determine current skill levels and a learning resources platform for ongoing improvement. In Australia, TAFE institutions use it primarily to gauge whether prospective students are adequately prepared for the academic demands of Certificate III, IV, Diploma, or Advanced Diploma courses.
Why TAFEs Use BKSB Results
Ensuring Student Success
Many vocational qualifications assume students already have Year 10–12 level literacy and numeracy. However, not all learners enter TAFE with the same educational background. BKSB results allow institutions to identify gaps and provide targeted support, preventing students from struggling or dropping out later.
Meeting Government and Industry Standards
Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) requires training providers to ensure students have the necessary foundation skills to complete their chosen course. By using BKSB results, TAFEs demonstrate compliance and alignment with the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF).
Personalised Learning Pathways
BKSB results don’t just sort students into “ready” or “not ready.” Instead, they provide detailed feedback on areas of strength and weakness. This enables TAFE educators to tailor learning pathways, recommending foundation skills courses or integrated support as needed.
How Results Influence Foundation Skills Placement
When a student completes the BKSB assessment:
- Results Are Benchmarked Against ACSF Levels
Literacy and numeracy skills are mapped against ACSF levels (ranging from Level 1 – very basic, to Level 5 – advanced). - TAFE Staff Review Results
Teachers, course coordinators, or foundation skills specialists review scores. For example, a Diploma course may require literacy at ACSF Level 4 and numeracy at Level 3. - Decisions Are Made About Support Needs
- If results meet entry benchmarks, the student can enrol directly in their chosen course.
- If results fall short in specific areas, the student may be advised or required to complete a foundation skills course (e.g., Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways) before or alongside their main study.
- If results are significantly below entry level, the student may be guided toward preparatory courses to build skills before reattempting higher-level study.
- Students Are Supported With Individual Learning Plans
Many TAFEs integrate BKSB results into a Personal Learning Plan (PLP), ensuring students receive structured support and resources.
Benefits for Students
- Clarity and Confidence – Students understand where they stand academically.
- Targeted Support – Weaknesses are identified early, avoiding failure later.
- Pathway Progression – Completing foundation skills often opens doors to higher-level study and employment.
- Improved Retention and Completion Rates – Students who start with the right skills are more likely to graduate successfully.
Example: A Typical Student Journey
Consider a student applying for a Diploma of Community Services. After completing the BKSB diagnostic:
- The results show literacy at ACSF Level 4 but numeracy at Level 2.
- TAFE staff recommend that the student complete a foundation maths program alongside the Diploma.
- The student receives extra support sessions and online practice resources.
- With the additional help, the student successfully completes the Diploma and transitions into the workforce.
Key Takeaways for Prospective Students
- BKSB is not a pass/fail test. It identifies strengths and areas for growth.
- Foundation skills courses are stepping stones, not barriers. They improve readiness for vocational study.
- Support is available. TAFE institutions provide learning support staff, online resources, and tailored programs.
Conclusion
Australian TAFE institutions use BKSB literacy and numeracy diagnostic results as a vital tool to ensure students are equipped for success in higher-level vocational education. By aligning results with the ACSF and tailoring foundation skills programs where needed, TAFEs not only meet regulatory requirements but also foster student confidence, improve course completion rates, and support long-term career outcomes.
For students, understanding the BKSB process means approaching vocational study with clarity and confidence—knowing that any gaps in literacy or numeracy can be addressed before tackling the challenges of certificate or diploma-level training.
