The Construction Skill Certification Scheme (CSCS)

The CSCS card is becoming increasingly important to people wishing to enter the construction industry. On all major construction sites they are compulsory. As the need for a certificate to confirm an employee’s safety awareness is paramount to all large contractors tendering for projects.

By 2010 it will be a government requirement for anyone on a building site from Labourer to Site Agent to hold a CSCS Card. We will register you with City & Guilds and go through all the required criteria with both knowledge and practical sessions.

We will test learner’s competence with a mock CSCS exam to improve confidence and safety awareness. At the required level of competency we will then put the learner into the CSCS exam, which is set and marked at an external centre and where the CSCS certificate is achieved subject to the required level being accomplished.

NVQ On-Site Assessment Training (OSAT)

The route to an NVQ.

To achieve a construction NVQ you will have to be employed and carrying out the range of skills in the trade you wish to be assessed in. You will also be observed in the environment by a qualified trade assessor.

You will need to complete an up to date record book with details of your site work this should then be signed by a work based recorder. By showing your knowledge and understanding of the required site activities, along with the observation of your skills by a trade assessor you will be able to satisfy the criteria, and achieve the full NVQ.

How Long Will It Take

It will vary depending on each individual’s trade experience gained on site. If you are able to practice the skills you require and can show adequate knowledge by answering relevant questions you will be able to achieve the NVQ in months. If your work experience is restricted it may take up to 2 years to gain the relevant experience.