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Industry Accreditation CSCS Cardholder FAQs

Plans are well underway to phase out Industry Accreditation CSCS cards (also known as issued under grandfather rights).  We’ve answered the most commonly asked questions to guide you through what to do next.

I have a Industry Accreditation CSCS card, what do I need to do now?

If you currently hold a CSCS card that was issued under Industry Accreditation since 1st January 2020, then your card will expire on 31st December 2024.

If you still need a CSCS card you’ll need to take action to make sure you’re able to apply for your new card under a different route.

If you’re a holder of a relevant NVQ or oversees qualification (as determined by Ecctis), then you’ll be able to apply for your new CSCS card using this.

What if I have an academic qualification?

Some academic qualifications, such as a HND or HNC, can also be used to apply for Black and Gold Supervisor and Advanced Craft CSCS cards.

If you have a membership to a professional body, such as CIOB, this can be used to apply for Black Managers and Gold Supervisor CSCS cards.

City & Guilds Craft Certificates or an apprenticeship can also be used to apply for Blue Skilled Worker CSCS cards.

What if I don’t have any of those existing qualifications?

If you don’t already hold any of the above qualifications, but still need a CSCS card, you’ll need to complete an NVQ (or an SVQ) which is linked to your occupation.

You’ll need to have registered for the appropriate qualification before your card expires on 31st December 2024 in order to gain a new CSCS card.

3B Training offers a wide range of NVQs from level 2 to 7, if you’re unsure which NVQ would be suit you please contact us.

Grants for specific supervision & management NVQs

To support construction workers transition from an Industry Accreditation CSCS card to a qualification, CITB are increasing the grant from 1 April 2023 to up to £1,500 for these NVQs…

Enquire via the links above or find out more about the CITB grants.

How do I complete an NVQ?

NVQs are centred around gathering a portfolio of evidence, so you don’t need to step foot in a classroom! We’ll help you to make sure you enrol on the right NVQ, which means you should be able to gather most of your evidence during the course of your normal work.

Once you’ve decided which NVQ is right for you we’ll enrol you on to the qualification. At this point you’ll be given access to our online e-portfolio system and can apply for your temporary red CSCS card.

This will either be the Experienced Worker or Experienced Technical, Supervisor or Manager card depending on the NVQ you’ve chosen.

You’ll be provided with help guides on how to use our e-portfolio system. So, you can start gathering your evidence straight away! You can easily upload evidence from your phone, laptop or tablet so your assessor can review it and provide feedback. Some examples of ways to show evidence include:

  • Professional discussion
  • Knowledge evidence questions
  • Reflective accounts
  • Witness testimonials
  • Product evidence – e.g. minutes of meetings or RAMS
  • Observations

You’ll have been introduced to your NVQ Assessor during the enrolment process and they’ll keep in touch with you throughout your NVQ journey. You’ll be able to communicate with them via BUD and they’ll arrange to catch up with you when necessary to help guide you through the process.

Level 2 and 3 NVQs can be completed offline using a paper based portfolio if you don’t have regular access to a device.

Will I need to take time off work to complete my NVQ?

No, as NVQs are completed based on evidence you gather in your workplace you don’t need to take time off work. However, you will need to spend time talking to your assessor, gathering and uploading evidence.

How long will it take me to complete an NVQ?

 There are no set timeframes when completing an NVQ. The duration depends on how quickly you can gather the evidence required. Typically NVQs take between three and six months to complete with 3B Training.

Do I need to do another NVQ to renew my CSCS card in 5 years time?

No. NVQs are a lifelong qualification so once you’ve completed it, it doesn’t expire.

How much will it cost to complete an NVQ?

Our NVQs cost between £950 and £1,995 depending on the qualification you choose.

3B Training offers a payment plan to help spread the cost of NVQs. Our two payment plan options are:

  1. 50% payable upon booking and 50% payable upon completion of the NVQ
  2. Four equal payments, paid over the first four months of your NVQ

In February 2023, CSCS will be hosting webinars to answer any further questions and support with these changes.

You can find out more about the NVQs we offer at 3B.

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