NVQ Level 2 – Plastering
DMR Training is an approved assessment centre for the NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Plastering (Construction).
Who Should Take the Plastering NVQ Level 2?
The NVQ Level 2 in Plastering recognises practical workplace competence in plastering. It is aimed at workers who can supply genuine evidence of competent trade activity, not complete beginners seeking workshop-only training.
Please note that the official title of the qualification is Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Plastering (Construction) (qualification number 603/2368/1). There are two distinct pathways, Solid and Fibrous. The Solid route includes internal finishing, applying finishing plaster and render, and moving and handling resources. The Fibrous route covers its own specialist plastering techniques. We will select the pathway that reflects your work.
We deliver the Plastering NVQ through the On-Site Assessment and Training (OSAT) route. Assessment is planned around your real work, supported by occupationally competent assessors and evidence matched to the chosen units. You will not need to take time off work. Please refer to ‘Entry Requirements’ and ‘Assessment Process’ for examples of the activities and evidence expected.
When you have completed the NVQ and received your certificate, you can apply for your blue CSCS card (Skilled Worker card), subject to the correct pathway and current CSCS requirements.
Entry Requirements for the Plastering NVQ
There is no fixed number of years of experience or prior NVQ required for this qualification. To undertake the Plastering NVQ as a workplace-based NVQ, you should:
- Meet the awarding organisation minimum age of 16 years.
- Be working in a relevant role with access to real construction-site assessment opportunities.
- Be capable of demonstrating the knowledge and practical performance required by the selected route and units.
We will complete an initial skills scan to check your work activities, access to resources, specialism and suitability. The qualification is achieved by meeting all of the relevant competence criteria. There is no automatic award based on time served.
Typical work activities include:
- Reading job specifications and planning plastering work.
- Preparing backgrounds, protection, tools, materials and mixing processes.
- Applying finishing plaster to suitable prepared surfaces.
- Producing internal solid plastering finishes and, where relevant, solid render.
- Checking adhesion, levels, tolerances, finish and making-good requirements.
- Managing dust, manual handling, access equipment, safe storage and housekeeping.
These examples are indicative. Your assessor will match practical tasks and evidence to the actual qualification and approved pathway and unit requirements.
Two specialisms are available, Solid Plastering and Fibrous Plastering. The unit list under Course Units illustrates the Solid route. A fibrous plasterer is registered on the separate Fibrous pathway.
How Is the Plastering NVQ Assessed? On-Site at Your Workplace
This is an occupational competence NVQ assessed using authentic work evidence in a real workplace. Once we have enrolled you, we will assign you an occupationally competent assessor who maps your evidence and discusses any gaps against the approved performance and knowledge standards.
Evidence may include:
- Direct observation by an occupationally competent and qualified assessor while you perform relevant tasks.
- Dated photos or video where permitted as supporting evidence, with you and the job clearly identified.
- Authentic witness testimony from an occupationally competent person with direct knowledge of your work.
- Site records, drawings, inspection sheets, permits, daily records and other work products attributable to you.
- Recorded professional discussions to address decisions and underpinning knowledge.
- Knowledge questions and answers mapped to the appropriate unit criteria.
You must also demonstrate safe systems of work and relevant workplace knowledge, including:
- Site inductions, RAMS, PPE, reporting unsafe conditions and emergency arrangements.
- Plant and vehicle movement, banksmen, segregation of people and machinery.
- Manual handling, lifting operations, working at height and secure access.
- Underground and overhead services, slips/trips and changing ground conditions.
- Noise, vibration, dust, COSHH, environmental controls and safe waste handling.
When all of the required criteria have been met, our internal quality assurance team checks the assessment decisions before your certificate is claimed from the awarding organisation.
How Long Does the Plastering NVQ Take?
Our planning indication is approximately 3 to 6 months, dependent on access to the full range of required work. This is not a fixed course length set by the awarding organisation, and it is not an enrolment guarantee. The actual assessment period depends on the range and timing of work, your readiness and satisfactory evidence.
The Solid pathway is published with 870 hours of total qualification time and a minimum of 291 guided learning hours. Other pathway measures may differ. Total qualification time is not the same as days in the classroom. A tailored assessment plan is agreed at induction.
Your Blue CSCS Card as a Plasterer
On completion of your plastering NVQ, you can apply for your Skilled Worker card (blue card), subject to the correct pathway and current CSCS requirements.
Need a card while you work towards your plastering NVQ? You can apply for the temporary Experienced Worker card (red card) in the meantime.
Plastering applicants need a current pass in the appropriate CITB Health, Safety and Environment test before applying. Card applications are made through CSCS and are not issued automatically with the NVQ.
Plastering NVQ Cost & Funding
Please visit our Funding & Grants page to check whether an eligible learner, employer, region or contract can receive support. Funding is not guaranteed by the qualification title alone.
We will provide current self-funded course fees and any approved instalment options.
Please get in touch for fees, programme availability and funding checks.
NVQ Level 2 Plastering Course Units
MANDATORY UNITS
Solid pathway: learners must complete the six mandatory units:
- Applying finishing plaster to prepared surfaces in the workplace (A/616/3758)
- Applying solid render to background surfaces and producing finishes in the workplace (F/616/3809)
- Conforming to General Health, Safety and Welfare in the Workplace (A/503/1170)
- Conforming to Productive Working Practices in the Workplace (J/503/1169)
- Moving, Handling and Storing Resources in the Workplace (F/503/1171)
- Producing internal solid plastering finishes in the workplace (F/616/3759)
OPTIONAL UNITS
Solid pathway: learners must complete at least one unit from the optional group:
- Applying projection plaster and render, and maintaining equipment in the workplace (D/616/4451)
- Installing direct bond dry lining systems in the workplace (A/616/3761)
- Installing mechanically fixed plasterboard in the workplace (L/616/3764)
- Laying sand and cement screeds in the workplace (F/616/3762)
An additional cement castings unit is available but does not count towards achievement. The Fibrous pathway has its own unit rules, which we confirm with you at enrolment.
Progression After Level 2
After achieving Level 2 and depending on your experience, you may have the option to advance to an NVQ Level 3 in a similar occupational area, or to a supervisory role through the NVQ Level 3 in Occupational Work Supervision (Construction).
You can also browse all our Drylining & Interior Systems NVQs and the full list of construction NVQs to compare levels and related qualifications.
Getting Started with Your Plastering NVQ
Contact us for a skills scan. We will confirm whether the Solid or Fibrous pathway reflects your work, review your evidence opportunities and check any current qualifications or safety training.
Once the route is confirmed, we will agree an assessment plan, enrol you on the correct qualification and introduce your assessor. Any CSCS card application is handled separately from NVQ certification.
For an initial commitment-free consultation, please call us on 01942 673047 or send us your details, and we will get back to you.
Course Information
The NVQ Level 2 in Plastering is for employed solid or fibrous plasterers who meet the recognised occupational standards.
The qualification validates the skills and experience you have gained during your career.
- 3-6 Months
- Funding Available
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Contact us today to discuss your training needs and discover how we can help you achieve your goals with our flexible courses and funding options.
Frequently Asked QUESTIONS
Common queries about the CITB Levy and Grant system
What are the benefits of gaining a plastering NVQ Level 2?
A plastering NVQ pays back in earning potential, career prospects and your occupational card – our short guide Why Should You Do an NVQ? explains.
Who will assess my NVQ?
Before starting your qualification, an assessor will be assigned to work with you and provide ongoing support.
DMR assessors are former construction workers with at least five years’ experience in NVQ assessment.
Each assessor holds an A1 or TAQA assessor’s qualification, at least an NVQ Level 2 in their occupational area, and a blue or gold CSCS card.
Can you provide support if I am dyslexic or have a learning disability?
We provide full training to all our assessors in supporting people with a learning disability or dyslexia. If you need extra support and guidance with the written elements of your plastering NVQ, your assessor will draw up an assessment plan tailored to your needs.
Where will my NVQ take place and what will I need to do?
An NVQ is a workplace competency qualification. As a competent plastering operative, you will be expected to document your skills and experience through various types of ‘evidence’.
Your assessor will carry out at least one observation in your place of work. You will also complete coursework in your own time.
To achieve your qualification, you will not need to travel, there are no exams to sit, and you will not need to take time off work. Your assessor will provide support and guidance face-to-face, by phone and by email.
Are grants or funding available?
Funding depends on the learner, employer, region and the programme rules that apply. Please get in touch with us to find out if you are eligible for funding, or visit our Funding & Grants page.
How long will it take to get my certificate after I finish my NVQ?
When you have completed your NVQ portfolio, our internal quality assurance team will check it for compliance. They will then claim your certificate with the awarding organisation. Once we have received your certificate, we will forward it to you by recorded delivery. This process usually takes between two and four weeks.
How do I apply for my plastering CSCS card?
The CSCS Skilled Worker card also requires a pass on the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test, taken at your local test centre.
Apply through CSCS with a copy of your NVQ certificate to upload and a debit or credit card for the fee.
Can I get a temporary card while I do my NVQ?
Yes, if you need a CSCS card while you are doing your plastering qualification, you can apply for the Experienced Worker card. You can request this card as soon as we have enrolled you on the NVQ (you will also need to pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test).
To apply for the temporary card, we will email you your proof of enrolment, which you must submit to CSCS.
You will then upgrade to the Skilled Worker card once you have finished the qualification.
How do I apply to start my plastering NVQ or find out more information?
You can call us on 01942 673047 or get in touch through our contact form.