About the Wood Occupations - Site Carpentry NVQ

The Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Wood Occupations – Site Carpentry is an NOCN nationally recognised qualification for skilled site carpenters who work with structural and non-structural timber components. This work-based qualification proves your competence in first fix, second fix, and carcassing carpentry tasks on active construction sites.

It is designed for those already working in the industry who want to formalise their experience and secure their Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card.

Who Is This Qualification For?

This NVQ diploma is ideal for:

  • Site carpenters with hands-on experience on commercial or residential projects.
  • Workers involved in first fix, second fix, structural timber installation, or door and frame fitting.
  • Professionals aiming to meet CSCS requirements or progress within the construction industry.

You must be currently employed or subcontracting in a carpentry role to complete the NVQ through on-site assessment.

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

  1. Complete the Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Site Carpentry
  2. Pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test for operatives

At Think Construction Skills, we support you through both steps. You’ll be assigned a qualified assessor to guide you through gathering on-site evidence via photos, videos, observations, and professional discussions—no classroom or exams required.

This card demonstrates your competency to employers and allows you access to UK construction sites as a recognised skilled worker.

CSCS Blue Card

Get your Wood Occupations - Site Carpentry NVQ

Level 2 NVQ - Wood Occupations

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
Moving, Handling and Storing Resources in the Workplace 5 Level 2
Title Credit Value Level
Erecting structural carcassing components in the workplace 20 Level 2
Installing Fire Resisting Timber Door Assemblies and Doorsets in the Workplace 9 Level 2
Installing first fixing components in the workplace 18 Level 2
Installing second fixing components in the workplace 23 Level 2
Maintaining non-structural carpentry work in the workplace 14 Level 2
Setting up and using transportable cutting and shaping machines in the workplace 26 Level 2

Wood Occupations - Site Carpentry NVQ FAQs

The NVQ is assessed entirely on-site while you work. You’ll gather evidence of your skills and knowledge, including videos, photos, and witness testimonies.

No. This is a work-based qualification with no classroom learning. You’ll complete the NVQ based on your existing experience and workplace activity.

Most candidates finish within 8 to 16 weeks, depending on your availability and evidence readiness. Our team can fast-track your assessment if needed.

  • 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.

You should already be working as a site carpenter, with experience in first fix, second fix, or timber installations.

A Level 2 NVQ in construction, including the Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Wood Occupations – Site 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

Get your Level 2 NVQ Wood Occupations – Site Carpentry