How to Pass the SSSTS Course First Time – Top Tips from Trainers
The SSSTS course is an essential qualification for anyone stepping into a supervisory role on a construction site. While it's not known for being overly difficult, it does require focus, preparation and the right mindset to pass first time.
To help you feel confident walking into the course, we’ve gathered the best tips from experienced SSSTS trainers on how to approach your training and ace the final assessment.
1. Understand the Purpose of the Course
Before you even start, it helps to know what the SSSTS course is trying to achieve.
This isn’t just about memorising health and safety legislation – it’s about understanding your responsibilities as a site supervisor and learning how to apply them in real situations. The more you engage with the content and think about how it applies to your current (or future) role, the more naturally it’ll stick.
2. Arrive Prepared
Although you don’t need to study in advance, turning up with the right attitude and a willingness to learn will go a long way.
Make sure you:
Get a good night’s sleep before the course
Arrive on time and ready to engage
Bring a notepad and pen (or laptop) for taking notes
Ask questions if you’re unsure about anything
Treat it like an important meeting or job interview – it’s your opportunity to invest in yourself and your future.
3. Engage in the Discussions
One of the best things about the SSSTS course is that it’s highly interactive. You’ll take part in group discussions, real-world scenarios, and even short presentations.
Don’t sit quietly in the background – get involved! Trainers aren’t looking for perfection, they want to see that you understand the material and can apply it practically. If you contribute to group work and ask relevant questions, you’ll naturally retain more information and feel more confident.
4. Take Notes That Make Sense to You
Everyone learns differently. Some people like bullet points, others prefer diagrams or flowcharts.
Whatever your style, try to jot down the key points in a way that makes sense to you – especially when it comes to legal responsibilities, health and safety legislation, and the structure of risk assessments.
When it’s time to revise before the exam, having your own notes will be a massive help.
5. Pay Attention to the Toolbox Talk Section
You’ll be asked to prepare and deliver a short ‘toolbox talk’ as part of the course. This catches a few people off guard, but it’s actually one of the most valuable and practical parts of the training.
Keep it simple:
Choose a topic that you’re familiar with
Stick to key messages – what’s the risk, and how do we reduce it?
Speak clearly and confidently
Imagine you’re explaining it to your own team on-site
You’re not being judged on presentation skills – it’s about showing you understand the topic and can communicate it clearly.
6. Revise for the Final Assessment
At the end of the course, you’ll take a multiple-choice test and possibly complete a few short written answers depending on the provider.
To prepare:
Review your notes the night before
Focus on legal responsibilities, supervisor duties, and key health and safety topics
Don’t panic – most people pass first time if they’ve engaged with the course
If you’ve paid attention and taken part in the activities, you’ll already know most of what you need to pass.
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Your trainer is there to support you. If something doesn’t make sense – whether it’s a bit of jargon or a health and safety process – ask. There are no silly questions, and chances are someone else is wondering the same thing.
Final Thoughts
Passing the SSSTS course first time isn’t about being the smartest person in the room – it’s about being switched on, engaged, and ready to take your responsibilities seriously.
By taking the course seriously and following these tips, you’ll not only pass the assessment but come away with a solid understanding of how to supervise a safe and compliant site.
Ready to take the next step in your construction career?
Check out our upcoming SSSTS course dates and secure your place today.
