From “I’m Not Sure” to Confident and Capable: The Power of Training Within the Zone of Proximal Development

In this blog, our General Manager Jason Braithwaite shares reflections on how our training approach is shaped by the Zone of Proximal Development — a concept that helps learners move from uncertainty to confidence with the right support, at the right time. 

Recently I have been reflecting on what makes training truly effective — especially in health and safety. We don’t just want our learners to complete a course. We want them to leave feeling confident, competent, and ready to apply what they’ve learned in real-world situations. This is where Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) comes in — a concept that shapes how we train.

ZPD describes the space between what a learner can do independently and what they can do with guidance. In our view, this is where meaningful learning — and safer workplaces begin. Across our courses and programmes, we intentionally design our delivery to operate in that space: Trainers scaffold learning by offering the right support at the right time — never too much, never too little.

Practical training environments reflect industry scenarios so learners can apply theory with support before doing it solo. If you haven’t visited our Wiri Training Facility, make sure you drop in for a tour next time you are in the area (211 Roscommon Rd, Wiri). Peer learning is encouraged — especially for new or returning trainees who benefit from hearing real experiences from those further along. We adjust the pace when needed. Sometimes the most powerful learning moment happens when a learner says, “I’m not sure,” and we help them work it out together.

We’ve seen time and again that this approach doesn’t just improve knowledge retention — it changes behaviour. And in our field, behaviour saves lives.

I’m proud to work with a team that sees each learner not just as a seat in a classroom, but as an individual on a journey — from unsure to capable — with us walking alongside them.