As one of the UK’s leading construction training providers, we’ve delivered hundreds of NVQ level 3s to construction professionals across the nation. Along the way, we’ve been asked many questions about this qualification by curious construction workers like yourself. We thought we’d put together a list of our most frequently asked questions and provide some information if you’re considering progressing your construction career with a NVQ level 3.
What is a NVQ Level 3?
The NVQ Level 3 may be considered as the natural progression after the NVQ level 2. After obtaining your blue CSCS “Skilled Worker” card, you may begin working in a supervisors capacity, or start to work at a more advanced level in your sector through experience and expertise. With your experience, skills and knowledge, you may decide that you are ready to take the next steps in your construction career. A NVQ Level 3 will allow you to either reinforce and certify your position as a supervisor or an experienced craftsman.
What is a NVQ Level 3 equivalent to?
The NVQ Level 3 is equivalent to A-Levels. It is a highly regarded vocational qualification, evidencing your professionalism and expertise in your chosen sector.
Can I get a NVQ level 3 for free?
If you’re over 19 years old and do not hold a similar level 3 qualification, you may be eligible to obtain your NVQ level 3 completely free of charge! Under the Free courses for Jobs Scheme, Portland Training are able to deliver fully funded NVQ level 3 in construction to eligible construction workers. You can learn more about getting your free NVQ level 3 here.
How Much Does a NVQ Level 3 cost?
At Portland Training, our NVQ level 3s come in at £1350. However, if the company you work/ subcontract for are CITB registered, you’ll be able to claim back £1250, meaning this qualification could only cost £100.
However remember, if you meet the eligibility criteria for Free courses for Jobs, you won’t need to pay a penny for a NVQ level 3!
What is a Gold CSCS card?
You may be aware of the Gold CSCS card- this is a highly respected certification in the construction industry that effectively certifies the existence of your NVQ Level 3. You must complete a NVQ level 3 in order to obtain a gold CSCS card. There are two different Gold CSCS cards that you can apply for upon completion of a NVQ level 3: the Advanced Craft card and the Supervisors card.
The Gold Advanced Craft CSCS card shows that you have completed a NVQ level 3 in your specific area of expertise with regards to a trade. For example, you may complete the NVQ Level 3 in Formwork or the NVQ Level 3 in Plastering.
The Gold Supervisor CSCS card evidences that you have completed a NVQ level 3 with a focus on supervision. For example, you may complete the NVQ level 3 in Occupational Work Supervision or the NVQ level 3 in Construction Contracting Operations.
How do I get a Gold CSCS Card?
You can obtain your gold CSCS card upon completion of a relevant NVQ level 3. Whether it’s Advanced Craft or a supervisors card, with your NVQ level 3 from Portland Training, you’ll be able to apply directly through the CSCS website. You can learn more about applying for your CSCS card here.
The CSCS will provide you with a physical card, and you will also be able to use the MYCSCS app as a handy place for easy access to your brand new card virtually.
Do I need a NVQ level 3 to be a supervisor?
If you’ve completed a relevant supervision NVQ level 3, you’ll be able to apply for your Gold CSCS supervisors card, which will certify your official role as a supervisor. If you have only completed a SSSTS qualification, you are not able to apply for your gold CSCS card. Whilst SSSTS is beneficial, this qualification alone does not warrant enough merit alone to get your card.
How long does a NVQ level 3 take to complete?
If you complete a level 3 NVQ through Portland Training, we use a tried and tested, client first competency based approach. Essentially, this means that we’ll work at your convenience. If you want to get your NVQ level 3 done as soon as possible and if you’re willing to put the work in- we’ll get our assessments done as soon as possible.
How does the NVQ Level 3 work?
Our assessors will come to your place of work to observe you taking out the requirements of the NVQ level 3, they will gather the necessary evidence to get you the qualification with no classrooms, no written work and no time away from work. If you want to get this qualification done as soon as possible, we have had clients complete this qualification in 8-12 weeks.
Do I need a NVQ level 2 to do a NVQ level 3?
You do not strictly need a NVQ level 2 to complete a NVQ level 3. As previously mentioned, our assessors utilise a competency based approach with our NVQs. This means that in order to complete the NVQ level 3, you must be capable of the all the assessment criteria. If you are unable to complete the units due to a lack of experience, you may not be able to pass the qualification. So whilst you don’t need an official qualification like the level 2, you must be skilled and capable enough to obtain the level 3.
If you’re interested in completing a NVQ level 3, contact a member of our team below to learn more and get started!
