Building Safer Workplaces Through Teaching

Motivated to better understand how effective training is designed and assessed, Chris continued his studies with the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE). Having already experienced The Gordon’s approach, continuing there felt natural.

“I appreciated how practical and grounded the training was,” he said. “Everything was aligned to real-world practice, and the focus was always on building confidence and capability.”

Supported by his employer, Corio Waste Management, he gained a strong understanding the vocational training, adult learning principles and assessment practices.

The program really helped me find my own style as a facilitator, It was a supportive environment where you could practise, get feedback, and keep improving.

--Chris Jones

A key strength of the course was its emphasis on learning by doing. Delivering training in simulated and real settings, combined with guidance from experienced educators, helped Chris apply his learning immediately.

“I was able to put what I was learning into practice straight away,” he said. “That made the learning stick.”

As his confidence grew, teaching became a clear next step. In September 2025, Chris transitioned into a Work Health and Safety teaching role at The Gordon.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to now teach at the same institution where I studied,” he said. “It feels like everything has come full circle.”

Today, Chris balances his industry role with teaching and finds fulfilment in seeing learners develop confidence and competence.

Whether it’s in the classroom or the workplace, helping people build skills that genuinely make a difference is what motivates me

--Chris Jones

For Chris, the journey highlights the value of lifelong learning.

“TAE gives you practical skills that open new doors,” he said. “If you enjoy sharing knowledge and supporting others, it’s a pathway that can be truly transformative”