About the Wood Occupations - Structural Post & Carpentry NVQ

The Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Structural Post & Beam Carpentry is designed for carpenters and timber framers working with heavy structural timber frameworks, including post, beam, and large-section timber assemblies. This qualification recognises your competence in traditional and modern timber framing, structural fabrication, site assembly, and safe working practices.

As a fully work‑based qualification, you are assessed while carrying out your normal duties, meaning no exams, no classroom attendance, and no downtime from work.

Who Is This Qualification For?

This NVQ diploma is ideal for:

  • Timber framers specialising in post and beam carpentry
  • Carpenters working on traditional heavy timber structures
  • Operatives involved in structural timber fabrication, layout, and assembly
  • Professionals aiming to qualify for the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card
  • Employers seeking formal competency verification for timber construction staff

How to Get Your Blue CSCS Card

To apply for the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card, you must:

  1. Complete this Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Structural Post & Beam Carpentry
  2. Pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Operatives Test (within 2 years)

Once both are completed, you can apply directly for the Blue CSCS Card, proving you are a competent and qualified timber frame specialist.

Think Construction Skills provides full guidance, including NVQ enrolment support, evidence collection, and CSCS application help.

CSCS Blue Card

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Level 2 NVQ - Wood Occupations

Title Credit Value Level
Assembling and erecting heavy timber framework – post and beam in the workplace 23 Level 2
Conforming to General Health, Safety and Welfare in the Workplace 2 Level 1
Conforming to Productive Working Practices in the Workplace 3 Level 2
Fabricating structural timber framework in the workplace 22 Level 2
Moving, Handling and Storing Resources in the Workplace 5 Level 2
Setting out structural timber framework in the workplace 18 Level 2
No optional units available.

Wood Occupations - Structural Post & Carpentry NVQ FAQs

It covers every stage of timber frame construction, including setting out, fabricating, and erecting heavy post‑and‑beam structures using traditional or engineered timber.

Yes, it is a fully recognised qualification that meets CSCS requirements for the Blue Skilled Worker Card once combined with a passed CITB HS&E test.

No. The qualification is assessed in your workplace while you complete your normal duties. There are no written exams or classroom sessions.

  • Obtain an NVQ Level 6: Complete an NVQ Level 6 in Construction Site Management, demonstrating your skills and knowledge.
  • Get a Black CSCS Card: Achieve the NVQ Level 6 qualification to be eligible for the Black CSCS card, which is necessary for Managing onsite.
  • Meet Additional Requirements: Fulfil other requirements, such as relevant work experience and passing the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test.

Absolutely. As long as you are actively working on structural timber framework projects, you can complete the qualification.

A Level 2 NVQ in construction, including the Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Wood Occupations – Structural Post & Beam Carpentry, is equivalent to five GCSEs (grades A-C / 9-4)* in the UK education system. It is a recognised industry qualification for skilled tradespeople. Read more about NVQ Level 2 qualifications on our Construction NVQ Level 2 page.

See our NVQ equivalence chart here.

NVQ Insights

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