The United Kingdom has been (and still is) going through a monumental shift in possibly every single professional sector. Colossal geopolitical events such as Brexit and a humanitarian crisis like COVID-19are causing shockwaves in the way organisations operate, people interact, countries function, and cultures collide. There are many important facets that need to be covered, however in this article, we are only focusing on one area – and that is the importance of construction qualifications.
Skilled worker shortages due to Brexit and the economic stagnation from COVID has created an employment climate in which construction organisations are now dependant on independent, skilled and knowledgeable workers who possess industry-leading qualifications. Our team at Construction Helpline outlines some of the key construction qualifications that people should be investing in right now, we hope that we leave you with some valuable information.
CSCS Cards
A CSCS card (Construction Skills Certificate Scheme) is an important license that construction workers obtain to carry out various work on-site. Employers and organisations are increasingly making the holding of CSCS cards in their workforce a mandatory requirement, as it helps their clients be reassured that health and safety practises are being implemented, and the project is running smoothly. Carrying a CSCS card also indicates that the person has good practical skills and knowledge of carrying out work efficiently and effectively. Although there is no legal requirement to hold a CSCS card, all companies indicate that they will not be hiring fresh personnel if they are not in possession of one. We strongly advise that you head to our website and book in a CSCS course as soon as possible.
NVQ Qualifications
National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) is a work-based qualification that allows you to gain concrete knowledge and skills while working on site. By completing a Construction NVQ training course, you are streamlining your construction career and increasing your chances of landing an amazing job. NVQ’s are regulated by the
There are four levels of Construction NVQ within the construction industry dependent on what stage you are on in your career. They also correspond to specific CSCS cards that you can get.
- Red CSCS card – NVQ Trainee
- Green CSCS card – NVQ Level 1
- Blue CSCS card – NVQ Level 2
- Gold Card – NVQ Level 3
- Black Card – NVQ Level 4
Construction Helpline offers the following NVQ qualifications:
- Operative NVQ 2
- Supervisor NVQ 3
- Site Manager NVQ 6
- Project/Contract Manager or Director 8
CITB Test
A CITB test (Construction Industry Training Board) is a £21 examination that strengthens the health and safety skills and knowledge of individuals that aim to work in the construction sector. It is a vital component to anybody’s construction career, and it is pivotal in ensuring that you can work safely on a construction site. The test is also a way of guaranteeing that you will not put your co-workers at risk. When the workforce of company has passed the CITB HS&E test it means that they can work confidently, efficiently, and safely on site.
CPCS Cards
If you want to become a slinger, telehandler, or a crane supervisor you must be in possession of a CPCS card. CPCS stands for Construction Plant Competence Scheme and it is a vital qualification that construction workers obtain if they want to operate large-machinery and plants. According to National Contractors Federation and Major Contractors Group, there are 150,000 + individuals owning this card.
Gaining construction qualifications is the first step in achieving a sustainable and profitable career. Holding a valid higher qualification will not only give you more practical experience but also make you stand out for potential employers so you can achieve your dream job. The above guide shows you which level of qualification will lead to which level of CSCS card is being achieved.