Property & Construction NVQ Levels Explained

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What does NVQ mean?

NVQ stands for National Vocational Qualification and is a work-based way of learning.

Each NVQ training course involves a variety of activities and tasks which are performed on-the-job and then assessed, with the aim of testing a candidate on their ability to do a certain role effectively.
 

NVQs can be studied at a school, college or within a workplace – candidates must be in part- or full-time work or study – with non-academic certifications obtained by those who demonstrate competency in certain skills.

A note about SVQs

When researching educational options, prospective students may come across Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs).

A SVQ is the Scottish equivalent of an NVQ, with both options made up of vocational and competence-based qualifications which sees practical learning techniques being used to develop a student’s skills to do a specific field of work.

The National Occupational Standards of a relevant field is used to shape the content of both a NVQ and a SVQ too. However, NVQs are used across England and Northern Ireland based on the Regulated Qualifications Framework. Meanwhile, SVQs are used in Scotland with accreditation to the Scottish Qualifications Authority. There are only very subtle differences between the two forms of qualification though.

What are NVQ levels?

There are seven main NVQ levels, as well as an entry level course. We’ve detailed the basic structure of each level, as well as the other educational certifications which they can be measured against:
 

• Entry Level NVQ (There is no educational certification equivalent to be compared to when it comes to an entry level NVQ) – This is the starting point for someone who does not have any previous qualifications or knowledge in the subject or industry that they are interested in. Basic skills and knowledge on a generic level will be taught here.
   

• NVQ Level 1 (equivalent to 3 to 4 GCSE grades D to G) – This represents an introduction into a subject area that someone has chosen to study. Learning about routine tasks will be covered here, as well as the practical application of basic knowledge.
   

• NVQ Level 2 (equivalent to 4 to 5 GCSE grades A* to C) – This is when a good knowledge and understanding of a subject is gained. Complex work-based duties will be undertaken by students here, both individually and as part of teamwork.
   

• NVQ Level 3 (equivalent to 2 A Levels) – This is the point where duties become more complex and diverse. Responsibility and autonomy are important at this level.
   

• NVQ Level 4 (equivalent to a Higher Education Certificate or BTEC qualification) – A specific area of work is usually focused on at this point, with a detailed and specialist level of learning provided. Prospective managers often find this level ideal for their career prospects. 
   

• NVQ Level 5 (equivalent to a Higher Education Diploma or Foundation Degree) – This involves deeper learning into an area of work, allowing students to obtain a high degree of expertise about a chosen subject and how to respond to complex work situations. Senior management and the training of others is covered at this point too.
   

• NVQ Level 6 (equivalent to an Undergraduate Degree or a Degree Apprenticeship) – This is the point where students gain an in-depth understanding of a discipline, with senior managers the intended students at this level.
   

• NVQ Level 7 (equivalent to a Master’s Degree or a PGCE qualification) – Another level intended for senior managers, this will demonstrate that a student is an expert in their chosen field once they have qualified.

Reasons to sign up to NVQ courses

There are many benefits of completing a property or construction NVQ course, including:

• Formal qualifications not being required to start studying for an NVQ

• Students can learn while they earn

• Students can receive one-to-one support from experienced professionals in their chosen industry

• Students can acquire knowledge that will cover both the functional and theoretical aspects of a work role

• It allows recognised qualifications to be obtained without the need to sit any examinations

• It allows students to be developed to national occupational standards, as well as being educated in the latest industry best practices

• It provides a flexible route into the construction industry

• It allows people to showcase their practical ability

• It presents students with a clear understanding of their responsibility within an organisation

NVQ courses available

Within the construction industry alone, there are NVQs available to be enrolled on from Level 2 which covers each of the following trades:

• Bricklaying

• Carpentry

• Dry lining

• Joinery

• Painting and decorating

• Plastering

• Tiling

Progressed to a level in your career where you’re hoping to become a supervisor or senior manager within a trade? These higher levels of NVQs within the construction sector should match with your ambitions:

• Level 3 NVQ Construction Contracting Operations

• Level 4 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Supervision

• Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Management

• Level 7 NVQ Diploma in Construction Senior Management

Just remember that you might need to complete a previous level NVQ before starting on the next level up – the entry requirements of a course will be detailed if this is the case.

It’s also important to note that some mid to higher level NVQs are needed to apply for a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card – a vital piece of evidence that a construction worker or contractor has the correct training and qualifications for their role. A NVQ Level 3 or SVQ at SCQF level 6 are relevant qualifications required for site managers and supervisors to obtain a CSCS Gold Card, for example.

A minimum Level 2 NVQ is usually also needed for a chosen piece of machinery to gain a Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) Blue Competent Operator Card. These cards are for higher level operators and are evidence that they have the comprehensive knowledge, ability and experience to use a plant vehicle whilst working without supervision.

You should now have a clearer view of what NVQ levels involve and why they prove beneficial as an educational route into employment. If you are unsure which type of skilled tradesperson to pursue as a career though, be sure to read through our excellent career guides on becoming a builder, carpenter, joiner, plumber or roofer.