This month we look at Level 2 NVQs the intelligent construction workers career path.

The Construction Industry is an amazing industry in which to work. 

Everyday there are great things accomplished by people just doing their job on construction sites across the UK.   

For a general labourer working on a construction site the opportunities are multiple. The site foreman could place you almost anywhere across the site. As a rule, a general labourer can be responsible for everything from simple to complex manual tasks including but not limited to, preparing and cleaning site, building, and dismantling scaffolding, traffic control, unload building materials, assisting with operation of construction equipment, operating hand and or power tools, mixing concrete, fixing solutions, laying modular paving, kerbs and channels, through to being responsible for building traditional full load bearing, cavity-wall blockwork and or basic carpentry.

There are three entry level construction jobs –

• General workers
• Labourers
• Operatives 

How do you improve your skills-base and knowledge to move from an entry level role to building a career path within the construction industry? 

Let’s discuss NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications) … 

NVQs are a work-based way of demonstrating occupational competence, involving evidence of tasks, duties, and achievements that are carried out at work. There are five competency levels of NVQs to work through. All awards are based on assessment and training; starting at Level 1 focusing on basic work and activities – Level 7, this is the highest level of the NVQ structure, (equivalent master’s degree) intended for senior management, to demonstrate that they are expert in their field.

NVQs are not awarded as a pass or fail, instead assessors observe individuals at work, completing tasks and duties they are assigned by a supervisor. And they either award the learner as ‘Competent’ (pass), or ‘Not Yet Competent’, meaning the learner requires further development skills to be able to qualify for their NVQ.

What is Level 2 NVQ qualification equivalent to?

The NVQ Level 2 diploma is equivalent to 4-5 GCSE grades A*- C.

Do you have to pay for an NVQ?

Most NVQs require payment, and businesses will usually pay for staff development, particularly when they need to meet the requirements of new contractors. There are some funding or grant opportunities depending on the chosen route and location. For CITB registered employers you can apply for grants and funding against the cost of your training and NVQs; more information here: https://essentialsiteskills.co.uk/citb-levy-grants-funding

What is a NVQ Level 2 qualification in construction? 

To gain a Level 2 NVQ diploma in construction, learners from general building and construction backgrounds (Operations) and Civil Engineering Services (Groundworks), will demonstrate their knowledge and skills through a selection of assigned work-based duties, which will range in complexity from conforming to general health, safety, and welfare best practice, to keeping to, all productive working practices, including but not limited to; demonstrating relevant practical experience of manual trades, understanding maintenance combined with individual responsibility through to demonstrating communication skills and teamwork. (The range of subjects for assessment will vary!).

Blue Skilled Worker | Blue CSCS Card

To apply for a Blue CSCS card, you need to complete a Level 2 NVQ in your chosen trade; or this card can be gained by completing an apprenticeship, such as an Employer sponsored apprenticeship, a City and Guilds of London Institute Craft Certificate or a CSCS Approved Trailblazer. This card is valid for 5 Years.

For workers that do not have an NVQ qualification but are experienced in their role, they can apply for the Red Experienced Worker Card (they must be registered onto their relevant qualification). This is a temporary card whilst you complete your Construction Related NVQ. You can find more information here.

All learners must also have passed the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test within the last 2 years (at the relevant level), before applying for the CSCS card. To find out the level of test you can use the CSCS Card Finder.

How much does an NVQ Level 2 cost? 

Cost can vary depending on your chosen route, number of learners and location. For up-to-date information on NVQ qualifications and availability, funding and grants, and to make a booking Call ESS on 0115 8970 529 or email [email protected]

Where can I find a full listing of Level 2 NVQs?

Search over 168 NVQ’s online https://essentialsiteskills.co.uk/nvqs