What is a NVQ level 3 in Construction?
An NVQ level 3 in construction is a National Vocational Qualification that proves that you are able to work at a high level in the construction industry. There are 6 main construction NVQs:
- Level 1 (Health and Safety in a construction environment)
- Level 2
- Level 3
- Level 4
- Level 6
- Level 7
The NVQ level 3 is for site supervisors or advanced craftspeople who are experienced in their role. This qualification is reserved for those with significant and relevant experience in their chosen sector.
What is a NVQ level 3 equivalent to?
An NVQ level 3 is equivalent to A levels. Holding this qualification is the same as completing 2 A levels, or any other level 3 qualification(In the UK).
Get your Gold CSCS card with your NVQ level 3
A CSCS card is an occupational standard for those working in the construction industry that proves their ability in working at a certain level. The Gold CSCS card is for experienced construction professionals with experience and expertise.
In order to obtain a gold CSCS card of any variety, you must hold an NVQ level 3 in construction. SSSTS or SMSTS, whilst still being valuable, are not sufficient alone to get your gold card.
There are 2 different Gold CSCS cards: the “Advanced Craft” card, and the “Supervisor” card.
Before applying for these cards you must complete the touch screen health and safety test.
You can learn more about getting your gold CSCS card with this video by the CSCS on how to apply for your CSCS card.
Gold Supervisor CSCS Card
The Gold Supervisor CSCS card is for site supervisors, site foremen, or for those working with other operators underneath them. This card can be obtained by completing a relevant NVQ level 3 in supervision such as Occupational Work Supervision or Construction Contracting Operations.
Gold Advanced Craft CSCS Card
The Gold Advanced Craft CSCS card is for skilled tradespeople working in a specific sector. These cards allow you to prove your ability and experience in working at a high level in your trade. This card is obtained by completing a relevant NVQ level 3 in your specific trade such as cladding, roofing and bricklaying (trowel occupations).
Browse all of our NVQ level 3 offerings.
(Please note OWS and CCO are for the supervisor card)
How is the NVQ level 3 Assessed?
Your NVQ level 3 will be assessed at your place of work by an experienced construction assessor. NVQs are assessed using a competency based method, in which you are observed in a natural working environment. Our assessors will gather all necessary evidence of you in your role against the specifications of the qualification.
Often, evidence can be gathered virtually via video or phone call, whereas some more practical or specific examples can be observed on site. Our assessors will always come to you, with no need for you to travel outside of the requirements of your employment.
Your NVQ level 3 will be assessed practically, which means no classrooms and no written work.
How to save money on your NVQ Level 3
There are a few ways to save money on your NVQ Level 3, we understand that some construction qualifications can seem expensive so we’ve detailed some ways you might be able to save on your qualification (or get it for free!)
Pay for your NVQ level 3 in flexible monthly installments
Paying for a construction NVQ upfront can seem daunting and expensive, and many people often put it on hold due to upfront fees. By paying with flexible monthly installments, you’re able to get qualified now and pay later. You can even put down some money at the start to mitigate monthly payments.
Check your finance eligibility for an NVQ level 3 in seconds.
Get your NVQ level 3 for free: Free Courses for Jobs
You may be eligible to get your NVQ level 3 for free via the government funded Free Courses for Jobs scheme. If you are 24+, and do not have a previous level 3 qualification then you could be able to get your qualification for free!
If you think you might be eligible for one of our courses, get in touch with us today and we’d be happy to guide you through the process.
Take a look at the fully funded NVQ level 3s we’re able to offer at Portland Training.
Learn more about the government’s free courses for jobs.
CITB Training Grants: Claim back money on your construction qualifications
If the company you work/ subcontract for are CITB registered, you will be able to claim back money on your NVQ level 3 in construction through the CITB training grant.
Depending on what NVQ level 3 you complete, you may be able to claim back up to £1250.
How to start your NVQ Level 3
If you’re interested in completing an NVQ level 3 and getting your gold card, you can get started with Portland Training today. If anything you’ve read in this article suits your current circumstances or you’d like to learn more, please get in touch with us below.
