CADUKs Guide to the Benefits of NVQs in Construction

What do you know about NVQs?

Contrary to popular belief, its not ‘who you know’ these days but ‘what you know’ and how you can prove it!

Who says so?

Employers throughout the UK and abroad are using evidence of practical, work-related skills, knowledge and experience as the measurement of how valuable their people are now and for the future. CDM Regulation 2015 which are the the main set of regulations for managing the health, safety and welfare of construction projects have provided guidance for Principal Designers/Principal Contractors where they are advised to appoint contractors and workers and provide the managers, supervisors and operatives who have the right blend of skills, knowledge, training and experience. You can improve your chances of getting a better job and building a better career simply by being recognised for what you already know by committing yourself to undertake a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ).

The following is an introduction by CADUK to NVQs in Construction. What they are, who they are for, how you get them, what employers think of them and how you find out more.

How do you show what you know and can do?

The best way to improve your career prospects is to show that your skills meet the standards agreed by Construction Employers across the UK.  NVQs are designed to help you do just that.

NVQs are National because the represent the standards accepted through the UK. They are Vocational because they are about the work you do. They are respected, high quality qualifications that are Internationally recognised that give you a certificate to prove that you have reached the required standard to carry out your job in the Construction Industry.

Does an NVQ involve sitting exams?   

No. NVQs aren’t about how good you are at exams, they are about how good you are at work. NVQs never involve written tests, they don’t involve trick questions – they are designed to let your skills, knowledge and experience shine through in practical ways. All NVQs in Construction (and there are over 300 NVQs in Construction) are developed by the CITB through consultation with National Working Groups and Practitioner Groups from across the four home nations, so they are developed by people who know the Construction Industry. They relate to the real world and many certificate holders and their employers will tell you that this is their main advantage. NVQs are not about going back to school. They are about going where you want to go in your career.

Where can NVQs in Construction take you?

With a little effort on your part, The relevant NVQ can take your career wherever you want it to go. Whatever your job in Construction at whatever level there is an NVQ for you. As your career develops further NVQs at higher levels will become accessible. The NVQ framework in construction is designed to help you make progress in your career. Having an NVQ  gives you a better chance of changing jobs or having access to work abroad. You could even have a career break without having to start from scratch every time. When you move on from a job you take your recognised skills and experience with you: by giving you formal recognition, NVQs help keep your career on the move.

Are Employers in the Construction Industry backing NVQs?

NVQs tell your employer a lot about you. By gaining an NVQ, you are making a strong statement about your will to succeed in your job, particularly if you have paid for it yourself. You are saying that your skill level matters to you and you want to improve.

They also give employers a national benchmark for judging the contribution you are likely to make to the business. If you have an NVQ you have shown that you are prepared to invest your time in being recognised as a proven contributor to business success.

How do you get an NVQ?

NVQs are really flexible. There are no time limits, no age limits, no special entry requirements. You can work towards NVQs in the way that suits you best – at work, at home, interactively online. You decide how long it will take – working at your own speed you can do it all at once or in stages. NVQs are awarded dependent on your work skills this may include being watched at work by your assessor but this depends on the qualification you are undertaking and individual needs and circumstances.

Who are NVQs for?

Everyone in the Construction Industry can benefit from NVQs. There are 7 Levels of NVQs ranging form level 1 covering basic work activities through to level 7 for senior managers – so they can help the careers of senior managers as much as relative newcomers to the industry.

What about special cases?

Every NVQ carries a commitment to equal opportunities. Age, sex, race and learning difficulties are not barriers to achievement. All that matters is your ability to meet the NVQ standard.

What Industry Accreditation and Professional Designations are accessible through NVQs?

As well as providing access to the highly sort after Blue (Operative), Gold (Supervisor) and Black (Manager) CSCS cards, NVQs also provide access to professional recognition with a variety of Professional Institutions such as The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), The Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE), The Institute of Clerk of Works and Construction Inspectorate (ICWCI) and The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH).

How can I find out more?

Talk to CADUK.  Contact us through our website www.caduk.co.uk or call us on 01952 287366