Introducing Zara Smith
Zara is a 16-year-old from Sydney’s Sutherland Shire who has completed the nationally recognised Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122). This makes her one of the youngest people in Australia known to achieve the qualification required to deliver accredited vocational training.
Zara began the course at just 15, completing it while balancing Year 10 and Year 11 studies before finishing in May this year. A highly unusual achievement for someone her age.
The Certificate IV in Training and Assessment is the standard qualification for trainers and assessors in Australia and is typically completed by adults with substantial workplace experience. Zara’s achievement reflects not only her own commitment, but also the value of strong industry mentoring, and the support of training organisations committed to developing future trainers responsibly.
“This achievement reflects years of gradual learning, practical exposure, and support from experienced people in the training sector,” said Lindsay Smith, Director of Excite Safety.
Gaining experience
“Zara has grown up around training, learning from experienced trainers and building her capability over time. While her age makes this story unusual, what stands out most is the practical experience, commitment, and support that made it possible.”
From a young age, Zara has been exposed to real training environments, working alongside senior trainers in first aid, workplace safety, and compliance programs. Over time, she progressed from assisting with course setup and practical activities to contributing to delivery under supervision. She has spent years building the kind of practical understanding that supports formal trainer development.
Now formally qualified, Zara will continue building her experience through Excite Safety’s supervised trainer development model. Delivering First Aid and CPR training with the support of experienced mentors and quality assurance processes designed to uphold consistency, compliance, and learner outcomes.
“A lot of young people are capable of more than they’re given credit for,” Zara said. “If someone is willing to teach you and back you, you can build real experience much earlier than people think.”
Industry Growth
This achievement for Zara, also highlights a broader conversation across education and industry: young people are often told they need experience before they can progress, yet meaningful opportunities to build that experience are not always easy to find.
“If we want capable future trainers and professionals, we need to create structured opportunities for young people to learn, contribute, and build confidence under appropriate supervision,” Lindsay said.
“I would like to thank the two organisations alongside Excite Safety that have made this achievement possible for Zara. Firstly, Fortress Learning as the RTO who supported Zara through her training and ultimately made the decision to issue the qualification. Secondly, Allens Training, with whom Excite Safety are third party trainers, and who have vetted and approved Zaras application to deliver First Aid training under their RTO.”
“Zara’s story shows what can happen when potential is recognised early and backed by the right training, mentoring, and support.”
Training Focus
Zara’s current training focus is First Aid and CPR. Practical, life-saving skills that are essential across workplaces, schools, sporting clubs, and the broader community.
“I want people to understand that learning CPR isn’t about being perfect,” Zara said. “It’s about having the confidence to give it a go when someone needs you.”
Her development as a trainer continues within a framework of supervision, mentoring, and ongoing validation by experienced professionals. This ensures that quality, learner safety, and compliance with national training expectations remain central while also supporting the next generation of trainers entering the sector.
For training organisations, educators, and employers alike, Zara’s achievement is a reminder that capability can be developed early when young people are given structured, responsible pathways to learn and grow.
Zara will be facilitating both First aid and CPR courses with Excite Safety starting July 2026, after school hours, on weekends and during school holidays. If you would like to see Zara in action you can book a course here
About Excite Safety
Excite Safety is a workplace health and safety training and consulting provider that works with businesses across Australia and New Zealand. Its services include training in First Aid, CPR, White Card, Fire Safety, and tailored workplace safety program. Excite safety delivers nationally recognised training on behalf of Allens Training Pty Ltd RTO 90909. Zara completed her Certificate IV in Training and Assessment through Fortress Learning RTO 31974.
Media Enquiries
Lindsay Smith
Director — Excite Safety
📞 02 9521 3410
📧 office@excitesafety.com.au
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