Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Plant Operations – Extracting

Q: Are there any entry requirements?

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.

Q: What is a Level 2 Construction NVQ Equivalent to in the UK?

A Level 2 NVQ in construction , including the Level 2 Diploma in Formworking, 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.

About the Plant Operations - Extracting NVQ

The NOCN Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Plant Operations – Extracting is designed for individuals operating plant machinery involved in excavation and extraction tasks on construction sites. This qualification confirms a worker’s competence in operating equipment such as excavators, loaders, and dumpers, while maintaining health and safety, following site procedures, and handling resources efficiently.

Assessed in the workplace, this NVQ allows you to earn while you learn, with no need for time off. Completing this qualification is a key step toward achieving a Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card, opening up further opportunities in plant operations and construction site roles.

How to Get Your Blue CSCS Card

To get your Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card, you need to complete a Level 2 NVQ in a relevant construction trade, such as the NOCN Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Plant Operations – Extracting. This qualification proves your competence in operating excavation and extraction machinery safely and efficiently on-site.

Once you’ve completed the NVQ and passed the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test, you’ll be eligible to apply for your Blue CSCS Card. This card is recognised across the UK and is essential for proving your skills and gaining access to most construction sites.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, Think Construction Skills offers expert support and onsite NVQ assessments nationwide, including for plant operations.

Get your Plant Operations - Extracting NVQ

Level 2 NVQ Diploma - Extracting

Mandatory Units

Title	Credit Value	Level
Conforming to General Health, Safety and Welfare in the Workplace	2	Level 1
Conforming to Productive Working Practices in the Workplace	3	Level 2

Optional Units

Title	Credit Value	Level
Preparing and Operating 180 Degree Excavators to Extract and Excavate Ground and Loose Materials in the Workplace	80	Level 2
Preparing and Operating 360 Degree Excavators to Extract Ground, Face and/or Loose Materials in the Workplace	80	Level 2
Preparing and Operating Crawler Tractor Dozers to Carry Out Dozer Operations in the Workplace	80	Level 2
Preparing and Operating Draglines to Extract Ground and/or Loose Materials in the Workplace	60	Level 2
Preparing and Operating Motorised Scrapers to Extract, Transport and Distribute Materials in the Workplace	80	Level 2
Preparing and Operating Suction and Vacuum Excavators to Extract in the Workplace	52	Level 2
Preparing and Operating Tracked Loading Shovels to Extract Ground and Loose Materials in the Workplace	80	Level 2
Preparing and Operating Trenchers to Extract Ground and/or Loose Materials in the Workplace	50	Level 2

Plant Operations - Extracting NVQ FAQs

What is the Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Plant Operations – Extracting?

This qualification is designed for individuals who operate plant machinery involved in excavation and extraction activities on construction sites. It confirms your ability to safely and effectively operate equipment such as excavators, dozers, scrapers, trenchers, and more.

Is this NVQ required to get a Blue CSCS Card?

Yes, completing a Level 2 NVQ such as this one in Plant Operations – Extracting is one of the key requirements for applying for the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card. The NVQ proves your on-site competence and ensures you meet the industry standards expected by employers across the UK.

How is the NVQ assessed?

Assessment is carried out in your workplace through the Onsite Assessment and Training (OSAT) route. A qualified assessor will observe your work, review evidence of your practical skills, and confirm your competence in a live site environment.

Are there any entry requirements?

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.

Where can I complete this NVQ?

You can complete the NVQ onsite while you work, with support from a registered training provider like Think Construction Skills. They offer nationwide NVQ assessment services and will guide you through the entire process.

What is a Level 2 Construction NVQ Equivalent to in the UK?

A Level 2 NVQ in construction, including the Level 2 Diploma in Formworking, 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.