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Build the skills needed to operate a 360 excavator below 10 tonnes with this comprehensive CPCS excavator training. The training focuses on machine controls, digging, grading, loading, and safe working practices, helping you become a skilled excavator operator. Successful learners would gain a recognised certificate and will be able to apply for the Red CPCS Trained Operator Card, providing recognised proof of their excavator training and site-readiness.
This Excavator course is designed to help learners develop the practical knowledge and operating skills needed to safely and confidently operate a 360 excavator in line with construction site requirements. The training covers key areas such as machine controls, pre-use checks, safe manoeuvring, excavation techniques, grading, loading, and shutdown procedures.
Throughout the course, learners will gain a clear understanding of how to operate the machine efficiently while following safe working practices. The training also helps prepare candidates for the CPCS theory and practical tests required to achieve the Red CPCS Trained Operator Card.
By completing this course, learners can build the foundation needed to work as a trained CPCS excavator operator and take the next step towards gaining a recognised CPCS digger ticket for construction site work.
The CPCS 360 Excavator Training (below 10 Tonne) is suitable for learners who want to operate a 360 excavator on construction sites and gain a recognised route into plant operations. It is ideal for both new operators and experienced workers who need formal CPCS excavator training to prove their skills.
This course is suitable for:
Whether you are starting from the basics or looking to formalise existing experience, this training helps you build the confidence, knowledge, and practical ability needed to operate a CPCS excavator safely on site.
To enrol in the 360 Excavator Training, candidates must meet the following requirements:
The course is delivered through a mix of practical machine training and classroom-based learning. This allows learners to understand the theory behind safe excavator operation while also developing the hands-on skills needed to use the machine confidently on site.
The training is designed to prepare candidates for real working conditions, covering safe setup, machine controls, excavation techniques, loading, travelling, and shutdown procedures under the guidance of experienced instructors.
On-site training can be arranged at your workplace, allowing learners to train using familiar equipment in a real-world environment where suitable facilities and machinery are available.
Centre-based training takes place at an approved training location, giving learners access to structured tuition, suitable plant machinery, and supervised practical training in preparation for the CPCS theory and practical assessments.
Centre-based training is a suitable choice for learners who prefer a structured environment with instructor support and practical machine experience. On-site training works well for employers who want their team trained at their own location, using familiar equipment and reducing time away from work.
The CPCS Excavator Training includes an assessment to confirm that learners can operate the machine safely, correctly, and to the required CPCS standard. Candidates are tested on both their technical knowledge and their practical ability to complete key excavator tasks.
The assessment is completed through two main parts:
Theory Test: This assesses your understanding of safe excavator operation, site hazards, working procedures, machine checks, and CPCS requirements. It helps confirm that you know how to operate a CPCS excavator safely before moving into practical site tasks.
Practical Test: This requires you to demonstrate your ability to operate the 360 excavator in a controlled setting. You may be assessed on tasks such as pre-use inspections, safe positioning, travelling, digging, grading, loading, and shutting down the machine correctly.
After successfully completing the CPCS 360 Excavator Training and passing the required CPCS assessments, your training provider will submit your application for the CPCS Red Trained Operator Card. This card is valid for two years and shows that you have completed recognised CPCS excavator training and are trained to operate a 360 excavator below 10 tonnes on construction sites.
You will usually receive your CPCS Red Card within 5 to 10 working days, depending on processing times. For learners searching for a CPCS digger ticket, the Red Card confirms that you have passed the required training and assessments for the 360 excavator category.
📌 Important: To qualify for the CPCS Red Trained Operator Card, you must have passed the CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) Test within the last two years.
After completing the CPCS A58 Excavator Training and gaining site experience, you can continue developing your career in plant operations. A common next step is to complete the NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Plant Operations, which helps demonstrate your competence while working in a real construction environment.
If you want to focus specifically on excavator work, the NVQ Level 2 Excavator Training provides a suitable route. This qualification supports operators who want to build stronger evidence of their excavator skills and progress beyond the initial CPCS Red Card stage.
Once the relevant NVQ is completed, you can move from the CPCS Red Trained Operator Card to the CPCS Blue Competent Operator Card, which is valid for five years. This can improve your employability, support access to more site opportunities, and help you progress as a competent CPCS excavator operator.
The price of 360 excavator training can vary based on several factors, including the type of delivery chosen. For example, on-site delivery may be available for group bookings, offering discounts for multiple learners. Additionally, novice learners may require more training days, which could increase the overall excavator course price, while experienced operators may complete the training more quickly. For a tailored excavator course price based on your location and needs, please contact us for a personalised quote.
No, the 360 excavator training cannot be completed online. Since the course involves operating heavy machinery, hands-on experience is essential. All practical training and assessments must be conducted in person. You can choose to complete the training on-site at your location or at an accredited training centre, both of which ensure adherence to UK safety standards and industry regulations.
The duration of the 360 excavator training depends on your level of experience. Experienced operators may complete the course in a few days, focusing primarily on assessments and refining skills. Novice learners, however, may require several additional days of hands-on training to build the necessary confidence and competence for safe excavator operation.
Both CPCS and NPORS are recognised certification schemes in the UK construction industry, granting plant operators the necessary qualifications to work safely on-site. While they are separate schemes, both are widely accepted across construction sites, including major projects under the Build UK framework. Holding either qualification ensures that you meet the essential safety standards required for site access.
If you're looking to expand your qualifications or pursue a different certification, check out our other accredited plant operation courses designed to suit various specialisations.
Not sure which certification your site requires? Our team is happy to assist in selecting the right qualification for you. Reach out to us at 0333 344 1293, or explore our full range of CPCS training and NPORS course options.
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Learn to operate the A58 360 excavator below 10 tonnes safely and efficiently, ensuring high productivity on-site.
Understand how to perform pre-use checks, running inspections, and basic safety procedures to maintain machine readiness.
Gain knowledge on the machine’s capabilities, limitations, and proper applications for different tasks.
Learn how to position and set up the excavator safely for various site tasks to ensure effective and secure operation.
Master the machine’s controls for tasks such as digging, grading, loading, and travelling with precision and safety.
Understand how to carry out excavations accurately to line and level, using site markings and laser levels.
Learn how to safely operate the excavator on level ground, rough terrain, and inclines, ensuring stability at all times.
Develop the skills to select, fit, use, and change buckets and other ancillary equipment safely and efficiently.
Learn the correct methods for placing spoil safely into dumpers, skips, or designated areas to prevent accidents.
Understand how to follow safe working practices, particularly around people, vehicles, underground services, and site hazards.
Learn how to perform basic machine maintenance, minor adjustments, and routine servicing checks to ensure optimal operation.
Understand how to properly prepare the machine for shutdown, securing it safely at the end of a workday.
Gain insight into lifting requirements and how to conduct safety checks for lifting accessories used during excavator operations.
The price of 360 excavator course varies depending on location, experience level, and delivery method. Contact us for specific pricing based on your requirements.
After completing the CPCS excavator training and passing the required assessments, your CPCS Red Card will typically be processed and sent to you within 5 to 10 working days.
The CPCS Red Card is issued after you complete your training and assessment. To progress to the Blue CPCS Card, you must complete the NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Plant Operations.
The CPCS Red Card allows you to work as a CPCS excavator operator on construction sites. It is the first step toward gaining full certification and advancing in the industry.
Yes, discounts for group bookings are available. Please reach out to us for more information on group rates for 360 excavator training.
CPCS excavator training is offered on-site or at accredited training centres, with both options providing hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge.
We offer various payment options, including upfront and instalment plans for the excavator course. Contact us for more details on how you can pay for your training.
To apply for the Blue CPCS Card, you must complete the NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Plant Operations, with a specialisation in Excavation, which allows you to progress from the Red to the Blue Competent Operator Card.
