NVQ Level 2 Specialist Concrete
The NVQ Level 2 in Specialist Concrete Operations covers concrete repair, in-situ flooring (concrete, resin, screed), and concrete finishing. On-site assessment, no college, no exams.
What Is the NVQ Level 2 in Specialist Concrete Operations?
The NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Specialist Concrete Operations is for workers involved in concrete repair, restoration, and specialist flooring. This covers specialist work rather than general concreting (which falls under Groundworks).
The NVQ is entirely workplace-assessed. Your assessor observes you carrying out specialist concrete work, photographs evidence, and conducts professional discussions. No exams, no classroom time.
NVQ Units and What You Will Be Assessed On
The NVQ Level 2 in specialist concrete is made up of mandatory units and pathway/optional units:
| Unit | Type |
|---|---|
| Conforming to General Health, Safety and Welfare | Mandatory |
| Conforming to Productive Working Practices | Mandatory |
| Moving, Handling and Storing Resources | Mandatory |
| Concrete Repair | Pathway |
| In Situ Flooring – Concrete Layer | Pathway |
| In Situ Flooring – Resin | Pathway |
| In Situ Flooring – Screed | Pathway |
| In Situ Flooring – Concrete Finisher | Pathway |
Choose the pathway matching your work. Concrete Repair covers structural repair and restoration. In Situ Flooring pathways cover specialist floor laying, screeding, resin application, and power floating.
How Long Does the NVQ Level 2 in Specialist Concrete Take?
On a fast track on-site assessment (OSAT) route, experienced specialist concrete workers typically complete the NVQ Level 2 in 4-8 weeks. This is the fastest route for workers already competent in their trade.
Through a standard college or apprenticeship route, the same qualification takes 12 to 18 months. Your assessor typically needs 3 to 5 site visits to gather all required evidence.
How Much Does It Cost?
The NVQ Level 2 in specialist concrete typically costs between £750 and £1,200 + VAT. This covers awarding body registration, a dedicated assessor, all site visits, portfolio guidance, and your final certificate.
If your employer is CITB-registered, they may claim a grant of up to £600. See our CSCS card cost guide for a full breakdown.
Total cost from start to Blue Card: approximately £807 to £1,257 (including CITB HS&E Test £21 and CSCS card £36).
How to Get Your NVQ Level 2 in Specialist Concrete: Step by Step
Choose a provider and enrol
Use our Course Finder to get matched with a provider covering specialist concrete in your area.
Initial assessment and planning
Your assessor reviews your role, experience, and the type of specialist concrete work you do. They create an assessment plan.
On-site evidence gathering
Over 3 to 5 site visits, your assessor observes you working, photographs evidence, and conducts professional discussions.
Portfolio completion and certification
Your assessor compiles evidence and submits it to the awarding body. Certificate issued within 1 to 2 weeks.
Apply for your Blue CSCS Card
With your NVQ certificate and CITB HS&E Test pass, apply for your Blue CSCS Card (£36, arrives within 10 working days).
Leads to: Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card
NVQ Level 2 Specialist Concrete · Valid 5 years
Specialist Concrete Salary: Green Card vs Blue Card
Getting your NVQ Level 2 and Blue CSCS Card directly affects your earning potential. Principal contractors increasingly require skilled worker cards.
| Level | CSCS Card | Day Rate | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labourer (no NVQ) | Green | £100-£140 | £24,000-£33,000 |
| Concrete Specialist (NVQ Level 2) | Blue | £160-£230 | £32,000-£46,000 |
| Senior Operative / Foreman | Gold | £200-£280 | £40,000-£55,000 |
Industry data shows Blue Card holders can earn up to £16,000/year more. Self-employed workers with their Blue Card can often charge premium day rates.
Start Your Specialist Concrete NVQ Today
Use our free Course Finder to get matched with an approved NVQ provider.
On-site assessment. Nationwide. Fast track from 4-8 weeks.
Career Progression After NVQ Level 2 Specialist Concrete
NVQ Level 2 + Blue CSCS Card
Qualified skilled worker. Trade-specific day rates. Access to all major construction sites.
NVQ Level 3 + SSSTS + Gold CSCS Card
Supervisor level. Manage teams, oversee quality. See NVQ Level 3/4 guide.
NVQ Level 6 + SMSTS + Black CSCS Card
Site management. Run projects, earn £60,000+. See NVQ Level 6 guide.
Practise for the CITB Test
You will need to pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test for your Blue Card. Try our free mock test.
Get a Free NVQ Quote
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Browse Concrete Specialist Jobs
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience?
Yes. You need to be currently working in specialist concrete operations. Most providers require at least 6 to 12 months.
What is the difference between this and the groundworks NVQ?
Groundworks covers general concreting (foundations, slabs, drainage). Specialist Concrete covers repair, restoration, and specialist flooring (resin, screeding, power floating).
Can I do it if I am self-employed?
Yes. Self-employed concrete specialists can complete the NVQ on any active project.
Which awarding body?
ProQual, City & Guilds, and Pearson Edexcel all offer it. CSCS accepts all three.
What CSCS card do I get?
The Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card. Valid for 5 years.
Can my employer claim back the cost?
If CITB-registered, they can claim a grant of up to £600.
Is the NVQ hard?
If you are already working competently in specialist concrete, no. No written exams.
How long is the certificate valid?
The NVQ certificate does not expire. The Blue CSCS Card is valid for 5 years.
