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At Target Zero Training, one of the most common questions we are asked by site managers is whether they should take the SMSTS course online or in a classroom. Both options lead to the same recognised qualification, but the experience and suitability can differ depending on your role, schedule and learning style.
This blog explains the differences between SMSTS online and classroom courses, what we see work best for different managers, and how to choose the right option with confidence.
The SMSTS Qualification Is the Same Either Way
The first thing we always make clear is that the SMSTS certificate is exactly the same whether you complete the course online or in a classroom.
The syllabus, learning outcomes, assessment and certification are identical. The difference lies in how the course is delivered and how it fits into your working life.
You can view available options on our SMSTS Course page.
How SMSTS Online Courses Work
Our online SMSTS courses are delivered live by experienced tutors. This is not self study or pre recorded content. Delegates attend in real time, participate in discussion and engage with scenarios just as they would in a classroom.
Online SMSTS courses are particularly popular with managers who:
• Want to avoid travel and accommodation costs
• Need to balance training with busy schedules
• Prefer learning from their own environment
• Work on sites across different locations
The key advantage is flexibility without sacrificing quality.
How Classroom SMSTS Courses Work
Classroom based SMSTS courses offer a traditional face to face learning environment. Delegates attend a training venue and learn alongside other managers in person.
This option often suits managers who:
• Prefer face to face interaction
• Benefit from being away from site completely
• Enjoy group discussion in a physical setting
• Have easy access to a training location
Some managers feel that stepping away from the site helps them focus fully on learning.
Tutor Interaction and Engagement
One concern we sometimes hear is whether online courses offer the same level of interaction. When delivered properly, they absolutely do.
At Target Zero Training, both online and classroom courses include:
• Live tutor led delivery
• Open discussion and questions
• Scenario based learning
• Practical examples from real sites
The quality of interaction depends on the tutor and course structure, not the format.
Learning Experience and Participation
From our experience, engagement levels are high in both formats when delegates commit fully.
Online courses work best when delegates:
• Log in from a quiet environment
• Minimise interruptions
• Participate actively in discussion
Classroom courses work best when delegates:
• Engage with group activities
• Share site experience
• Ask questions openly
The best experience comes from involvement, not location.
Managing Time and Commitments
Time management is often the deciding factor.
Online SMSTS courses help managers by:
• Removing travel time
• Reducing time away from home
• Allowing easier scheduling
Classroom courses can help by:
• Creating clear separation from site duties
• Reducing temptation to multitask
• Providing a focused learning environment
The right choice depends on how easily you can step away from site responsibilities.
Assessment Experience Online vs Classroom
The SMSTS assessment is the same in both formats. It focuses on understanding and application rather than memorisation.
We prepare delegates thoroughly regardless of delivery method, ensuring that the assessment never feels unfamiliar.
Using practice questions can also help build confidence. We recommend using the SMSTS Mock Tests to become comfortable with question style.
Common Misconceptions About Online SMSTS
Some managers worry that online courses are less accepted or less effective. This is not the case when delivered correctly.
An online SMSTS course is:
• Fully recognised
• Accepted by contractors and clients
• Delivered live by approved tutors
• Assessed to the same standard
The key is choosing a provider that delivers online training properly.
What We Recommend at Target Zero Training
Rather than pushing one option, we help managers choose what suits them best.
We usually recommend:
• Online SMSTS for managers with tight schedules or travel constraints
• Classroom SMSTS for managers who benefit from physical separation from site
Both routes deliver the same outcome when engagement and support are in place.
Thinking Ahead About Renewal
Whichever format you choose, remember that the SMSTS certificate is valid for five years. Planning ahead for renewal is just as important as choosing the initial course.
We deliver the SMSTS Refresher Course in formats designed to minimise disruption while maintaining competence.
You can explore renewal options on our SMSTS Refresher Course page.
Preparing for Either Option
Preparation improves outcomes in both formats.
We recommend:
• Reviewing your site responsibilities beforehand
• Being ready to participate in discussion
• Applying learning to real site scenarios
• Practising with mock questions
You can support preparation using the SMSTS Mock Tests to build confidence.
Final Thoughts Choosing What Is Best for You
There is no single best option for everyone. The best SMSTS course format is the one that allows you to fully engage, learn confidently and apply the knowledge on site.
At Target Zero Training, we deliver both online and classroom SMSTS courses to the same high standard. Our role is to help you choose the option that fits your role, schedule and learning style.
You can book your preferred option via our SMSTS Course, plan renewal with the SMSTS Refresher Course, and strengthen preparation using the SMSTS Mock Tests.
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