NVQ Level 2 – Steelfixing
DMR Training is an approved assessment centre for the NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Steelfixing (Construction), a workplace competence qualification for practising steelfixers.
Who Should Take the Steelfixing NVQ Level 2?
The NVQ Level 2 in Steelfixing is intended for people already working as steelfixers who can demonstrate occupational competence on real construction projects. It recognises the skills, practical experience and knowledge used in steel reinforcement work.
Please note that the official title of the steelfixing NVQ is Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Steelfixing (Construction) (qualification number 603/7588/7). The qualification is made up of three mandatory units plus two optional units, and the final unit selection must match the work you actually do.
Steelfixers commonly work on civil engineering schemes, concrete structures, foundations, beams, columns and floor slabs. Work includes interpreting reinforcement drawings and schedules, handling bar and mesh, tying reinforcement and/or fabricating reinforcement sections.
We deliver the Steelfixing NVQ through the On-Site Assessment and Training (OSAT) route. Evidence is gathered while you carry out your normal job, supported by your assessor. There is no conventional end-of-course written examination, and you will not need to take time off work. Please refer to ‘Entry Requirements’ and ‘Assessment Process’ for examples of tasks and evidence relevant to this NVQ.
When you have completed the NVQ and received your certificate, you can apply for your blue CSCS card (Skilled Worker card) for steelfixing, subject to current CSCS card requirements.
Entry Requirements for the Steelfixing NVQ
There is no set minimum number of years of experience or prior qualification for this NVQ. To undertake the Level 2 Steelfixing NVQ, you must:
- Be at least 16 years of age.
- Be working in a relevant steelfixing role with access to genuine workplace assessment opportunities.
- Be able to demonstrate the occupational knowledge, performance and resources needed for the selected units.
Before enrolment, we will complete an initial skills assessment and confirm that your job role and workplace provide suitable opportunities to gather evidence. The NVQ is assessed as pass/fail against the relevant national standards. Typical activities include:
- Reading and interpreting steel reinforcement drawings, bar bending schedules and specifications.
- Checking reinforcing steel, mesh, fixings, spacers and other materials against instructions.
- Measuring and marking out reinforcement locations and placements.
- Moving, handling, positioning and storing steel safely on site.
- Cutting or bending reinforcement to the required dimensions, where this is part of your work.
- Fixing reinforcement in situ, including tying bars and mesh securely.
- Preparing and assembling prefabricated reinforcement cages or sections, where applicable.
- Maintaining line, spacing, laps, cover and stability in accordance with requirements.
- Following safe systems of work, communicating with colleagues and checking completed work.
These examples are indicative: your assessor will agree which evidence is relevant to the mandatory units and your two chosen optional units.
Optional unit choices: Fixing Steel in Situ; Prefabricating Reinforcement Steel Sections; or Scheduling, Dimensioning, Bending and Cutting Steel Reinforcement. You must complete two of these three options (see Course Units).
How Is the Steelfixing NVQ Assessed? At Your Workplace
The NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Steelfixing (Construction) is competence assessed in a real workplace. Once we have enrolled you, we will assign you an assessor who will plan workplace assessments, review your performance and knowledge, and help you build an evidence portfolio against the required units.
Your portfolio may include:
- Direct observation of steelfixing tasks, carried out by an occupationally competent assessor in your workplace.
- Relevant dated photographs and videos, where accepted by the unit assessment requirements. Submitted recordings alone are not automatically treated as direct observation.
- Authenticated employer or competent witness testimonies describing your steelfixing work.
- Job records, drawings, schedules, inspection records, method statements and other work products linked to your own contribution.
- Recorded professional discussions with your assessor, on site or remotely where permitted.
- Knowledge questions and answers addressing the relevant occupational standards.
You must also demonstrate safe working and knowledge of the risks of reinforcement work, including:
- Site induction, PPE and safe systems of work / RAMS.
- Manual handling, lifting operations, slinging/signalling boundaries and exclusion zones.
- Sharp edges, protruding bars, impalement risks and safe storage of rebar.
- Working at height, access equipment and edge protection where relevant.
- Use of hand tools, powered cutting/bending equipment and guarding.
- Housekeeping, slips/trips, welfare, emergency arrangements and reporting defects.
When all required assessment criteria have been met, our internal quality assurance team will review the decisions and evidence before your certificate is claimed with the awarding organisation.
How Long Does the Steelfixing NVQ Level 2 Take?
For learners who already perform the required tasks and can provide suitable evidence, we can plan an estimated 2 to 3 months for assessment. Completion may be quicker or take longer depending on access to the right jobs, assessor visits and evidence. This is an estimate, not an awarding-body requirement.
The assessment plan is arranged around your work. The qualification carries 440 hours of total qualification time, including a minimum of 180 guided learning hours. These are qualification measures and do not mean 440 hours of classroom attendance.
Your Blue CSCS Card After Level 2
On achievement of your Level 2 steelfixing NVQ, you can apply for the blue CSCS Skilled Worker card, subject to the approved occupational qualification and card application checks. The blue card is normally valid for five years.
Need a card while you work towards your steelfixing NVQ? Experienced workers may qualify for the temporary Experienced Worker card (red card), normally valid for one year and non-renewable, if they meet the scheme requirements.
You will need a pass in the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test (Operatives test for steelfixing) within the preceding two years. Card applications are made through CSCS and are not issued automatically with the NVQ.
Steelfixing NVQ Level 2 Cost & Funding
Please visit our Funding & Grants page to check current eligibility. Funding availability depends on the learner, employer, location and applicable programme rules.
We can provide a self-funded quotation and confirm whether payment in four 25% instalments is available for your enrolment. Please get in touch for up-to-date course fees, payment arrangements and funding checks.
NVQ Level 2 Steelfixing Course Units
MANDATORY UNITS
The qualification is made up of three mandatory units plus two optional units.
Learners must complete the three mandatory units:
- 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)
OPTIONAL UNITS
Learners must complete two units from the optional unit group, selected to match actual workplace responsibilities:
- Fixing Steel in Situ in the Workplace (L/618/7336)
- Prefabricating Reinforcement Steel Sections in the Workplace (R/618/7337)
- Scheduling, Dimensioning, Bending and Cutting of Steel Reinforcement for Concrete in the Workplace (H/618/7469)
Progression After Level 2
Successful steelfixers can move into lead hand, chargehand or supervisory roles when they have the right responsibilities and experience. A possible progression route is the NVQ Level 3 in Occupational Work Supervision (Construction).
We can advise on related Level 3 supervisory qualifications, other construction NVQs and additional technical or safety training relevant to your role. You can also browse all our construction NVQs to compare levels and related qualifications.
Getting Started with Your Steelfixing NVQ
Contact us to arrange a short skills scan. We will check your steelfixing duties, access to site work and the two optional units most appropriate to your evidence.
If eligible, we will enrol you, issue your welcome information and arrange an introductory discussion with your assessor. Together you will agree the assessment plan, visits and types of evidence needed.
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 Steelfixing is for practising steelfixers who can demonstrate occupational competence on real construction projects.
The qualification recognises the skills, practical experience and knowledge used in steel reinforcement work.
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Frequently Asked QUESTIONS
Common queries about the CITB Levy and Grant system
What are the benefits of gaining a steelfixing NVQ Level 2?
A steelfixing NVQ pays back in earning potential, career prospects and your CSCS 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 steelfixing 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 steelfixer, 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 availability depends on the learner, employer, location and applicable programme rules. 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 steelfixing CSCS card?
The CSCS Skilled Worker card also requires a pass on the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test (Operatives test), taken at your local test centre within the preceding two years.
To apply, head to www.cscs.uk.com/applying-for-cards with a copy of your NVQ certificate to upload and a debit or credit card for the fee.
Can I get a temporary CSCS card while I do my NVQ?
Experienced workers may qualify for the temporary Experienced Worker card (red card) while registered on the NVQ, if they meet the scheme requirements. 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. The red card is normally valid for one year and is non-renewable.
You will then upgrade to the Skilled Worker card once you have finished the qualification.
How do I apply to start my steelfixing NVQ or find out more information?
You can call us on 01942 673047 or get in touch through our contact form.