About the Steelfixing Occupations NVQ

The NOCN Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Steelfixing Occupations is a nationally recognised qualification designed for individuals working in steelfixing roles on construction sites. It certifies that you have the skills, knowledge, and competence to work safely and effectively with reinforcing steel in a variety of construction settings.

This qualification is ideal for operatives responsible for cutting, bending, fixing, and prefabricating reinforcement steel, and supports career progression toward supervisory roles or further NVQ qualifications.

How to Get Your Blue CSCS Card

To get your Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card, you must complete a relevant Level 2 NVQ, such as the NOCN Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Steelfixing Occupations (Construction). This qualification proves you are competent in your trade, meeting the standards required to work safely and effectively on UK construction sites.

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.

Blue CSCS Card

Get your Steelfixing Occupations NVQ

Level 2 NVQ Diploma - Steelfixing Occupations

Title Credit Value Level
Appreciation of ICT and 3D Building Information Modelling for Civil Engineering Operatives 3 Level 2
Cutting and Bending Reinforcing Steel to Shape 20 Level 2
Fixing Insitu Reinforcing Steel 30 Level 2
Interpretation of Construction Drawings, Specifications and other Relevant Information Required for Cutting and Bending Reinforcing Steel to Shape 5 Level 2
Interpretation of Construction Drawings, Specifications and other Relevant Information Required for Prefabricating Reinforcement Steel Sections 5 Level 2
Interpretation of Construction Drawings, Specifications and other Relevant Information Required when Fixing Steel Insitu 5 Level 2
Manufacture and Installation of Prefabrication Reinforcement Steel Sections 32 Level 2
Moving, Lifting, Handling and Storing Reinforcement Steel and Associated Materials, Equipment and Resources 5 Level 2
Operating Safe Working Practices when Fixing Insitu and Prefabricated Reinforcing Steel 3 Level 2
Self Management in Construction 3 Level 2
Team Working in Construction 2 Level 2
No optional units required.

Steelfixing Occupations NVQ FAQs

This NVQ is suitable for:

  • Steelfixers currently working in construction environments
  • Workers aiming to obtain a Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card
  • Employers looking to upskill their workforce and meet site competency standards
  • Individuals seeking a formal, recognised qualification to validate their steelfixing experience

This NVQ is assessed onsite while you work, through the Onsite Assessment and Training (OSAT) route. There are no classroom-based exams. A qualified assessor will visit your site to observe your work, review evidence, and confirm your competence based on performance in real-world conditions.

Most candidates complete the NVQ in up to 8 weeks

, depending on their experience and how quickly they can gather evidence. For experienced steelfixers, the process may be quicker.

  • 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.

If you or your employer is registered with CITB, you may be eligible for NVQ funding. This can significantly reduce or cover the cost of your qualification. Contact Think Construction Skills to check your eligibility and secure funding support.

A Level 2 NVQ in construction, including the Level 2 Diploma in Steelfixing, 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

Get your Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Steelfixing Occupations