Safer site culture
Well-structured NVQ pathways reinforce safe systems of work, site documentation, evidence gathering and real-world competence across day-to-day construction activity.
GQA pathways • CSCS guidance • Construction competence
Construction qualifications that support safer, skilled sites.
Approved Training and Consulting Limited supports candidates and employers across the construction industry with vocational qualifications that demonstrate real occupational competence. We help learners progress from site entry and skilled worker routes through to supervision and management pathways.
Qualification pathways aligned with recognised construction awarding routes
Why qualifications matter in construction
Construction qualifications help demonstrate practical competence, support safer working practices, and provide a recognised route toward the right CSCS card for the occupation being carried out.
Recognised proof of skill
Construction employers and principal contractors increasingly expect workers to hold recognised qualifications that match the role they perform on site.
Progression and compliance
From skilled trade activity to supervisory and management responsibilities, the correct qualification helps individuals progress while supporting card applications and workforce assurance.
CSCS cards: common routes and what they usually mean
The exact card depends on occupation, qualification and the correct CITB Health, Safety and Environment test. The summary below is designed as easy guidance for website visitors.
RedTrainee / entry routes for people registered on recognised training or competence pathways.
GreenLabourer card. Generally for labouring duties, not skilled occupations.
BlueSkilled Worker card, commonly linked to relevant Level 2 construction qualifications.
GoldAdvanced Craft or Supervisory routes, commonly linked to Level 3 or supervisory qualifications.
BlackManager card for management and technical routes, commonly linked to Level 4–7 management qualifications.Typical core requirement
Most card applications require the correct construction-related qualification and the appropriate Health, Safety and Environment test for the card type and occupation. This may be the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test or, where applicable, the GQA Health and Safety test which is accepted for GQA card routes.
- Green: labourer route for unskilled site labouring only.
- Blue: usually relevant Level 2 trade qualification.
- Gold: usually Level 3 advanced craft or supervisory route.
- Black: construction management / technical qualification at higher level.
Important note for visitors
Card rules can change by occupation, evidence route and renewal rules. Visitors should always confirm the latest card criteria on the official CSCS website before applying.
- Choose the card that matches the actual job role.
- Use the correct CITB test level for that route.
- Do not use a Green card if working in a skilled occupation.
About Approved Training and Consulting Limited
We deliver construction qualifications because competence matters. In a sector where safe working practices, accurate site documentation and role-specific skill are essential, vocational qualifications provide a structured way to evidence what a learner can actually do in the workplace.
Our aim is to support learners and employers with accessible, practical qualification routes that reflect genuine occupational activity. We focus on real evidence from real sites, helping candidates build recognised proof of competence while supporting progression into skilled, supervisory and management roles.
Fair access and inclusionWe promote equality, inclusion and respectful treatment across recruitment, training delivery, assessment and learner support.
Health and safety focusOur centre approach is built around safe working and learning environments, site-specific awareness and appropriate control measures.
Reasonable adjustmentsWhere needed, support can be considered so learners are not unfairly disadvantaged while maintaining qualification integrity.
Appeals and complaints routesClear procedures are in place for appeals, complaints and the handling of concerns, with escalation routes where applicable.
Data and evidence handlingPersonal data, assessment records and centre documentation are handled with confidentiality, security and lawful processing principles in mind.
Integrity of assessmentWe are committed to preventing malpractice and maladministration and to protecting the integrity of qualifications and decisions.
What learners can expect
Workplace-based evidence
Our qualification model is centred on workplace evidence so candidates can demonstrate competence through the activities they actually carry out in their role.
Clear expectations
Learners are told what evidence is required, how workbooks fit into the process and what additional site records or videos are needed for their level.
Progression minded delivery
Whether the learner is aiming for a skilled worker route or a management pathway, the qualification should reflect the level and responsibilities of the job.
Qualifications
Browse the construction qualifications currently shown on this website. Select a qualification to view its page and the general evidence requirements for achieving the NVQ.
Contact information
For qualification enquiries, candidate support or employer discussions, contact Approved Training and Consulting Limited using the details below.
Office address
770A High Road, North Finchley, N12 9BS
Telephone
07473 973935
How we can help
Qualification guidance
We can help candidates and employers understand which qualification level may best fit the job role and likely CSCS progression route.
Evidence expectations
We can explain the typical evidence types required, including workbooks, videos and workplace documents linked to assessment.
Centre support
We aim to make the process clear, practical and professionally managed from first enquiry through to qualification completion.