Working at Jarrold Training means I’m constantly surrounded by delegates and qualifications, but there’s a big difference between supporting our learners and sharing their experience.

I recently had the opportunity to complete the NEBOSH National General Certificate, a 10-day Health and Safety qualification. Firstly, this was an exciting chance for professional development, but my main goal was to deepen my understanding of the learner’s day to day experience so I could better support them. But I couldn’t have imagined just how much it would open my eyes.

Stepping Into the Learner’s Shoes

My previous NEBOSH experience had primarily included supporting learners with the logistics of their exams and providing emotional support. Now that I was in the classroom, I saw first-hand that the training goes far beyond meeting NEBOSH’s exam criteria. It wasn’t about memorising facts but applying the knowledge to real-life scenarios.

Before the end of the first week, I was fully immersed in the practical challenges our learners face. We were all balancing training with life, work, getting to grips with new terminology, and interpreting what exam questions are really asking.

Being back in a classroom setting can be nerve wracking, most delegates on my course hadn’t been in that position since school or university, it can be daunting but our trainers were experts at making us feel comfortable, included and engaged.

Building Real-World Understanding

One of the most valuable aspects of the course was how it fundamentally changed the way I experience my workplace. Before, risk assessments, hazard identification, and control measures were concepts, now they’re things I actively notice and act on.

For example, we had an outdated piece of office equipment, an old school guillotine paper cutter, that was putting colleagues at risk. This was immediately replaced with a new paper cutter with proper guards in place, a much safer alternative. A quick and easy change that I could implement directly after training and include in my risk assessment project.

Not only has this made me more confident when discussing course content with learners, it has also made me a safer employee able to maintain a high level of safety and risk awareness here at Jarrold Training.

Improving How I Support Learners

After completing the course, I can now relate to learner questions, anticipate common challenges, and provide more meaningful support.

I’m now more mindful of:

• How information is presented and understood
• The importance of clear guidance around assessments
• The need for calm reassurance and encouragement throughout the learning journey

Completing the training has allowed me to bridge the gap between administrative support and learning support. I’m able to meet delegates exactly where they are and support them in the ways I now know make the biggest difference.

A New Perspective on Training

At Jarrold Training we are proud to provide excellent training that goes beyond exam or tick box requirements. We recognise that training isn’t just about delivering content, it’s about the entire learner experience.

By stepping into the role of learner, I’ve gained insight into the training experience that helps me contribute more effectively to both our learners’ success and the overall quality of training we provide.

Final Thoughts

My NEBOSH journey didn’t end in the qualification; the learning I gained is now a part of my daily working life. It has strengthened both my confidence as a colleague and my ability to support our learners effectively.

If you work in a training environment and have the opportunity to take one of your courses, I’d strongly recommend it. The best way to support learners is to become one!

Leigh-Anne