Navigating the SMSTS Course Options
13 October 2025
The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) course is a crucial certification for site managers and supervisors in the construction industry.
While the content is standardised, the delivery methods are flexible, offering options to suit various learning styles and time constraints. Understanding these options is key to choosing the right one for you or your team.
1. Classroom 5-Day Block Course
This is the traditional and most popular format. You attend a physical training centre for five consecutive days, from Monday to Friday.
Who it's for:
- Ideal for individuals who prefer a structured, in-person learning environment. This format promotes direct interaction with the instructor and fellow students, which can be great for networking and collaborative learning.
- Suits those who can dedicate a full week to training without work interruptions. It's a focused, immersive experience that allows you to complete the course quickly.
- Beneficial for kinaesthetic or social learners who thrive on group activities, discussions and direct feedback.
Pros:
- Minimises distractions from work and home life.
- Provides a hands-on, interactive experience.
- Excellent opportunity for networking.
Cons:
- Requires a full week off from work, which can be challenging for some.
- May involve travel and accommodation costs.
2. Classroom 5-Day 'Day Release' Course
This option spreads the five-day course over five weeks, with one day of training per week. For example, you might attend every Monday for five consecutive weeks.
Who it's for:
- Perfect for those who cannot afford to be away from their job for a full week. This format allows you to balance work responsibilities with training.
- Suits individuals who prefer to learn at a slower, more manageable pace. The week-long break between sessions allows time to review notes and absorb the information.
- Good for learners who may find a full week of intense study overwhelming.
Pros:
- Minimal disruption to work schedules.
- Time for reflection and review between sessions.
- Still offers the benefits of in-person learning and networking.
Cons:
- The course takes five weeks to complete.
- Requires a consistent weekly commitment.
3. Virtual Classroom 5-Day Block Course
This is the online equivalent of the 5-day classroom block. You attend live, instructor-led sessions from your own home or office, using a video conferencing platform.
Who it's for:
- Excellent for learners who prefer the convenience of home-based study. It eliminates the need for travel and related costs.
- Suits self-disciplined individuals who can focus and engage effectively in a remote setting.
- Ideal for companies with staff in various locations who want to train them simultaneously without logistical hurdles.
Pros:
- Highly flexible and convenient.
- No travel or accommodation costs.
- Maintains the interactive element with a live instructor and other students.
Cons:
- Requires a reliable internet connection and a quiet space.
- May have more potential for distractions.
4. Virtual Classroom 5-Day 'Day Release' Course
This format combines the flexibility of a virtual classroom with the slower pace of day release. You attend one online session per week for five weeks.
Who it's for:
- The most flexible option for balancing work, personal life, and training. It's perfect for people with significant time pressures.
- Suits individuals who learn best with regular, shorter sessions and who can't take extended time off work.
- Great for those who want the full virtual classroom experience but need more time to process the information.
Pros:
- Maximum flexibility and convenience.
- Allows time to apply learned concepts at work between sessions.
- Eliminates all travel costs.
Cons:
- Longest overall completion time (five weeks).
- Relies heavily on self-discipline and consistent attendance.
By carefully considering your personal circumstances, learning preferences, and work demands, you can choose the SMSTS course option that sets you up for success.
Which Option Should You Choose?
- If you learn best in-person and can spare the time, the classroom block is the fastest route.
- If you want time to reflect between sessions, go for the day release option (classroom or online).
- If you want to avoid travel but still have live tutor support, the virtual classroom options are perfect.
Remember: whichever option you choose, you’ll end up with the same recognised SMSTS qualification — it’s simply about what fits best with your learning style, work commitments, and lifestyle.
Ready to Book Your SMSTS Course?
Check our upcoming dates for classroom and online SMSTS courses and secure your place today.
