So, you’re wondering what site manager qualifications you need.
If you want to run a site, you’ve gotta get a black CSCS card
Now, there are two ways to get you one. A Level 6 NVQ or a Level 7 NVQ, and a pass in the CITB Managers and Professionals test.
But let’s get something clear, you don’t need a degree, so throw any assumption of that in the bin.
There are loads of questions we get asked on the mobile, and there’s a bit more going on behind the scenes. So, let’s get right in.
Let’s get this straight.
You do not need to go back to college, our construction NVQs are delivered on site, so don’t worry about losing out on work.
We can put this into perspective.
Someone who’s been running sites for fifteen years knows he needs an NVQ, but he’s thinking that’ll mean going back to college.
Which means college classes, exams, and homework at the kitchen table.
We think that sounds silly, doesn’t it?
What makes more sense is getting assessed on the job, not having to travel out of your way, not having to take unwanted days off, and most importantly, no exams!
A Construction NVQ is a qualification that proves you can do the job and are up to date with current practice, and you can’t exactly prove your competence while in a classroom, can you?
Your assessor comes to you and builds the portfolio with you. Most of what goes in it is sat in your site files already.
An observation of you doing your every job, photos, job logs, a reference from your gaffer, and a recorded chat about how you handle things when they go sideways.
But if it’s the writing side that’s bothering you, we’ve got support don’t worry.
Our assessors are trained and deliver in a way that suits you, they can carry out a discussion with you verbally and keep track of your answers rather than give you a mountain of homework to write up.
If English isn’t your first language, don’t worry, we’ve got that covered too, we’re well trained!
So this is one we get asked loads about.
An SMSTS is a five-day course. You learn about health and safety and get assessed at the end.
It’s a fantastic thing to put on your CV. Does it give you the competence certificate to be a site manager? Unfortunately, no.
It’s a training course, but it doesn’t prove you can run a job the way that an NVQ does and it doesn’t last as long.
Which is where our Level 6 and Level 7 Construction NVQs comes in.
Do you manage the work? Do you manage the people who manage the work? Do your workers come to you for work and advice?
It means you already qualify for a Level 6 and a Level 7 Construction NVQ.
But the question is, which level do you go for? Let’s break it down
So, do you manage the work, or do you manage the people?
Because this is where to paths diverge.
If you manage the programme, the labour, and the safety standards land on your desk, that’s Level 6 Construction NVQ.
But if your work is those individuals reporting on those contracts, and keeping the business fed, that’s a Level 7 Construction NVQ for you.
Still confused? Let’s look at it through job roles shall we?
Site Managers, Construction Contracting Operations Managers, Assistant Site Managers, Project Managers, and most owners of smaller firms have a Level 6 Construction NVQ.
But if your firm has those big positions where you are at the top, doing the overall hiring and firing and/or a director’s role, that’s your Level 7.
Most people are done in three to six months, but some take a year.
Either way, it all depends on how much time you put into the course, not about how sharp you are.
But don’t worry, you’ll be on-site as you do it, that’s the whole point of our construction NVQs.
And you’ll get a temporary red experienced worker card that’ll last you until your black one lands if you don’t already have a trade or supervisory card.
Now, if you’re running sites without the qualification, take it from us, stop putting it off!
It’s three to six months, working around your work, and it’s recognition of your hard work.
Ring us on 01942 673047 or send us your details, and we’ll do a quick skills scan to work out which level fits.
