Overcoming fear as an adult and passing exams for career progression

Barriers to training and a construction skills crisis

Construction workers may face barriers to training and career progression for various reasons, including financial constraints, lack of time, and – in some cases – the perception of the construction industry as being a second-choice career.

Additionally, the sector’s image problem and the lack of clear career progression opportunities can deter individuals from pursuing training opportunities. The industry’s low skills equilibrium and the need for fundamental changes in employment and educational practices are also contributing factors.

Another factor – which many people simply overlook – is that adults simply don’t want to commit to learning on top of their working hours. At the end of a busy workday, most adults want to relax rather than open the study books.

On top of this, a lack of confidence when it comes to exams and assessments can influence whether someone undertakes work-based training or not. Fear of exams can hamper even the most experienced professional and slow their career progress.

These factors – along with many others – have helped to fuel a growing skills crisis within the construction sector.

What stops workers in the construction sector from training?

Workers in the construction sector face several barriers that prevent them from career progression by undertaking training, including:

• Lack of Hands-On Experience – Many new workers enter the construction industry without proper training, which can increase the risk of accidents. Traditional training programmes often focus on theory rather than practical, real-world applications. At 3B Training safety is our utmost priority, which is why we offer a range of theory and practical training courses to ensure delegates are fully trained.
• High Turnover Rates – Despite legislative requirements, frequent workforce changes within the construction sector make it difficult to ensure consistent training across all employees. Without standardised onboarding and refresher courses, safety knowledge can become inconsistent or outdated. Ensuring training is refreshed and updated can save lives on-site.
• Technology Adaptation – The rise of AI, digital safety tools, and advanced PPE tracking requires workers to be comfortable with technology. However, many struggle to adopt these new systems, leading to inefficiencies and safety gaps. Despite many people owning a smartphone, not everyone owns a laptop, nor is tech-savvy when it comes to learning online courses.
• Confidence and Readiness – Not every worker wants to step up or feels ready to take on new responsibilities. Without the right support and encouragement, they may hesitate to pursue training because they feel safe in their current roles.

These challenges highlight the need for a proactive approach to training that addresses the specific needs of the construction sector and helps workers overcome these obstacles.

We look at how construction professionals can face up to training, overcome their fears, and pass courses with flying colours.

How to pass your exams with flying colours

To overcome fear and pass exams with flying colours as an adult, consider the following strategies:

• Take notes when in class – A lot of assessments are open book. This means you can have your notes available to you to help you, which can help you to pass your exam. So, taking as many notes as you can so you can refer back to them is important.
• Practice Past Questions – Regularly practicing past questions can significantly improve your exam performance. For longer courses, regularly priming your mind for what you might face in your exams can help prepare you and give you confidence. It will help to embed the knowledge you have learned and highlight areas which you might need to brush-up on.
• Study Early – Start studying early to give your mind ample time to process the material. You won’t take everything in first time around, but your subconscious will continue processing what you’ve studied. Leaving your studying to the last minute and trying to cram knowledge will leave you feeling anxious and won’t give your mind time to process the information and fully understand it.
• Create a Study Schedule – A structured study plan helps you manage your time effectively and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Take Regular Breaks – Taking breaks can help maintain focus and energy levels during your study sessions.
• Test Yourself – Quizzing yourself or taking practice tests can reinforce your understanding and can help you retain the material which you’ve read.
• Get Plenty of Sleep – Adequate sleep is crucial for good performance in exams, and in life.
• Eat a Healthy Breakfast – A balanced meal with protein and carbohydrates can provide the necessary energy to keep you focussed on exam day.
• Use Relaxation Techniques – Deep breathing, muscle relaxation, and visualising success in your exams, can help to reduce stress and improve concentration.
• Group Study – Studying with others can provide support and motivation. This can make the learning process more enjoyable and productive. At 3B Training, a lot of our courses involve group activities, which helps everyone in the class to get involved and embed their learning.

By implementing these strategies, you can reduce fear and anxiety and increase your chances of passing your exams with flying colours. Remember, success is achievable with the right preparation and mindset and is crucial for your career progression.

Further your construction career with 3B Training

At 3B Training, we deliver health and safety training courses to construction professionals of all skill levels. Our vastly experienced trainers believe our training is of the highest standard.

From site management and supervisory qualifications to civils and utilities skills, we have a course which is right for you.

Our courses are delivered in a range of ways, including classroom, online, in-person practical training, and in-house at a venue of your choosing.

Click here to browse our training courses and further your career today!