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NVQ Level 2 in Dry Lining
Work at your pace with expert support and complete this Dry Lining Level 2 NVQ on-site. No classroom, no tests—qualify online at an affordable price and apply for your CSCS Blue Card.
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Course Features
Learning Options
What Is the Level 2 NVQ in Dry Lining?
The Level 2 NVQ in Dry Lining is a recognised qualification for those installing or finishing plasterboard systems on construction sites. It proves your practical competence in real working conditions, whether you're fixing boards or preparing surfaces for decoration.
This on-site qualification requires no classroom study or exams, and once completed, it makes you eligible for the CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card—helping you access better roles in the drylining trade.
Drylining is one of the most in-demand interior trades in the UK. With a Level 2 NVQ in Dry Lining, you can work on large-scale fit-outs, new builds, and high-end refurbishment projects. Qualified dry liners often progress into supervisory roles, site coordination, or specialist interior system contracting.
Who Should Take the Level 2 NVQ in Dry Lining?
This qualification is ideal for anyone working in drylining who wants to gain a recognised qualification without classroom sessions or written exams. It’s designed for on-site workers looking to prove their competence and qualify for the CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card.
This NVQ is suitable for people who:
- Fix plasterboard to walls and ceilings
- Tape, joint, and sand drylined surfaces
- Install partitions and MF ceiling systems
- Prepare interiors for final decoration
- Work on residential or commercial fit-outs
What’s Covered in the Level 2 NVQ in Dry Lining?
This qualification is tailored to match your day-to-day responsibilities on-site. You’ll follow one of the two specialist dry lining pathways based on the tasks you regularly carry out:
Dry Lining Pathways:
- Pathway 1 – Dry Lining Boarder: Fixing plasterboard sheets to walls and ceilings using adhesive or mechanical fixing techniques.
- Pathway 2 – Dry Lining Finisher: Taping, jointing, and finishing plasterboard surfaces to create a smooth, paint-ready finish.
No matter which pathway you choose, all learners must complete the same three core mandatory units. These units build your foundation in essential site safety and teamwork:
- ✓ General health and safety in the workplace
- ✓ Productive and efficient working practices
- ✓ Effective communication on-site
After completing the core units, your specialist training and assessment will depend on your chosen pathway. You’ll build practical, on-site skills relevant to your trade. For example:
You’ll learn how to:
- ✓ Measure, cut, and install plasterboard accurately on walls and ceilings
- ✓ Apply jointing tapes and multiple layers of compound
- ✓ Sand, smooth, and prepare surfaces for final decoration
- ✓ Interpret specifications, plans, and snagging lists on-site
- ✓ Safely handle tools, fixings, adhesives, and finishing materials
- ✓ Work efficiently alongside supervisors and other site operatives
Are there Any Entry Requirements for this Qualification?
There are no formal qualifications or prior experience required to enrol on the Level 2 NVQ in Dry Lining. However, because this is a work-based qualification, you should be actively involved in dry lining tasks—such as boarding or finishing—on a live construction site.
Whether you're new to the trade or have years of hands-on experience, the NVQ is designed to recognise and assess the skills you apply in your day-to-day role, helping you build credibility and advance your career.
How Do I Complete the Level 2 NVQ in Dry Lining?
The NVQ is assessed entirely on-site while you perform your usual dry lining duties. There’s no need to attend classroom sessions or sit any written exams. Instead, you'll earn the qualification by collecting evidence from real work—whether that involves boarding, joint finishing, or installing partition systems under live site conditions.
Once you’re enrolled, a qualified assessor will schedule an induction to help you get started. This includes:
- Setting up access to our online Learning Management System (LMS)
- Explaining how to upload evidence like photos, videos, and method statements
- Outlining the assessment process, unit requirements, and portfolio structure
A Dry Lining Boarder installs plasterboard sheets to walls and ceilings using fixings or adhesives. In contrast, a Dry Lining Finisher focuses on jointing, taping, and smoothing those surfaces to create a flawless finish ready for decoration. Both roles are essential and offer unique pathways within this NVQ.
How Long Does the Level 2 NVQ in Dry Lining Take?
The duration of this qualification depends on how often you're working and how quickly you can gather site-based evidence. Since it’s a competency-based NVQ, you'll complete it by recording the tasks you already carry out—such as installing plasterboard, jointing, and finishing walls and ceilings on live construction sites.
While you have up to 12 months to complete the NVQ, most learners finish in just 3 to 4 weeks. Consistent learners who are actively working on-site can often complete the qualification in as little as 2 weeks with support from their assessor.
How Is the NVQ in Dry Lining Assessed?
The NVQ is assessed entirely through your regular on-site dry lining work—there are no written exams or classroom sessions required. You'll complete a portfolio that showcases your ability to carry out drylining tasks safely, accurately, and in line with industry standards.
Your assessment may involve:
- Answering short knowledge-based questions (written or via recorded discussion)
- Uploading documents such as method statements, job sheets, or risk assessments
- Submitting photos or videos of boarding, jointing, or surface preparation
- Providing a signed witness testimony from your supervisor or manager
- Taking part in site visits or video calls with your assessor for observation
You’re not the only one. With over 15 years of experience delivering construction NVQs and a strong success rate among our learners, we’ll support you every step of the way. Receive one-to-one guidance to complete your dry lining portfolio with confidence and ease.
What Qualification Will You Achieve?
Upon completion, you will be awarded the Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Interior Systems (Construction), a nationally recognised qualification regulated by Ofqual and respected across the UK construction industry.
The title on your certificate will reflect your chosen specialism, such as Dry Lining Boarder or Dry Lining Finisher. This ensures your qualification accurately matches the work you do on-site and helps employers understand your exact area of expertise.
This qualification confirms your competence in real-world drylining tasks and allows you to apply for the CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card, helping you unlock skilled job roles and better pay in the construction and fit-out sectors.
How Can You Progress After Completing this Qualification?
After completing your NVQ in Dry Lining, the natural next step for many learners is to move into more advanced or specialist roles. One of the key progression routes is the Level 3 Diploma in Interior Systems, which is ideal for those looking to deepen their expertise in drylining, ceilings, partitions, and interior fit-out operations.
This higher-level qualification is a strong choice if you're aiming to take on more responsibility on-site, improve your earning potential, or eventually move into supervisory positions within the interior systems trade. After completing the Level 3, you can apply for the Skilled Worker Gold CSCS Card, opening up further opportunities in leadership and site coordination roles.
What Are the Benefits of the Level 2 NVQ in Dry Lining?
Completing this qualification offers a wide range of practical and career-focused benefits for anyone working in dry lining, interior systems, or partition installation on active construction sites:
- ✓ Proves Your Trade Skills – Confirms your ability to complete drylining jobs to a professional standard without supervision.
- ✓ Recognised Nationwide – This NVQ is accredited and accepted by contractors, builders, and fit-out firms across the UK.
- ✓ CSCS Blue Card Eligibility – Use this qualification to apply for the Blue Skilled Worker Card and prove your trade competence.
- ✓ Increased Earning Potential – Qualified dryliners are more likely to secure long-term, better-paid work across commercial and residential sites.
- ✓ Work-Based Qualification – No classroom sessions or exams — complete your drylining NVQ while working on-site.
- ✓ Career Progression – Open the door to supervisory roles, site contracts, or further qualifications in construction leadership.
- ✓ Reinforces Health & Safety – Demonstrates your understanding of site safety, PPE, and clean working practices.
How Much Does the NVQ in Dry Lining Cost?
The total cost of the Level 2 NVQ in Dry Lining is £699.99. This covers everything you need to complete the qualification—from induction to certification—with full guidance at every step:
- One-to-one support from a dedicated dry lining NVQ assessor
- Personalised induction and regular progress check-ins based on your availability
- Access to our online platform for uploading site-based evidence
- Final portfolio assessment and certificate issue upon completion
💡 No hidden fees. You can also spread the cost with flexible, interest-free payment plans.
What Jobs Can I Apply for After this Dry Lining Qualification?
Achieving the NVQ Level 2 in Dry Lining can lead to a wide range of skilled roles across the construction and interior fit-out industries. Whether you specialise as a dry lining boarder or finisher, this qualification proves your capability and opens doors to more secure, better-paid positions.
- ✓ Dry Lining Boarder (Plasterboard Installer)
- ✓ Dry Lining Finisher (Taper/Jointer)
- ✓ Interior Systems Installer (Partitions and Ceilings)
- ✓ Drylining Operative on Residential, Commercial or New Build Sites
This recognised NVQ shows that you're qualified to carry out dry lining work to industry standards—whether you're boarding, finishing, or supporting full interior fit-outs.
How Much Can I Earn as a Qualified Dry Liner?
Dry liners with a Level 2 NVQ and a CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card typically earn between £30,000 and £42,000 per year. Your salary may vary based on your level of experience, project type, and location—ranging from residential sites to commercial fit-outs and large-scale builds.
Can I Complete the NVQ Dry Lining Course Online?
Yes — this NVQ is fully flexible and assessed within your current workplace. You’ll be able to upload site photos, videos, and supporting documents through our secure online learner platform. With no classroom sessions or exams, it’s the perfect solution for those looking to gain a recognised qualification without interrupting their work schedule.
How to Apply for Your CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card
- Complete the Level 2 NVQ in Dry Lining – This proves you’re competent in carrying out dry lining tasks to the required industry standard.
- Pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) Test (Operatives) – A quick touchscreen exam confirming your awareness of on-site safety requirements.
- Apply online via the official CSCS website – Once both steps are complete, you’ll be eligible for the Blue Skilled Worker Card.
📌 The CSCS Blue Card is valid for five years and helps you access skilled roles on dry lining, fit-out, and construction sites across the UK. Learn more about how the Blue Card works.
Other Construction NVQs You May Be Interested In
If you’re looking to expand your career after qualifying in dry lining, here are some other NVQs that can help you build a long-term future in construction:
Hear from our past customers
What you will learn
- Improve dry lining for form and finish
- Produce smooth tape and joint work
- Shape clean internal and external angles
- Apply topcoat for strong, lasting results
- Create seamless skim plaster surfaces
- Follow best practice on every project
Course content
Discover the key practices and principles that contribute to a productive work environment in this unit. Learn about effective communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving skills. Acquire the knowledge to work efficiently and contribute to the overall productivity and success of the workplace.
In this unit, you will learn about the essential principles of maintaining health, safety, and welfare while working. Gain knowledge and understanding of workplace hazards, risk assessment, emergency procedures, and the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE). Develop the skills necessary to ensure a safe and healthy working environment for yourself and others.
This unit covers the safe and effective methods for moving, handling, and storing materials and equipment on site to ensure health and safety compliance and protect resources.
This unit focuses on securely fixing plasterboard to walls and ceilings, ensuring surfaces are correctly aligned and ready for finishing.
To complete this unit, candidates must demonstrate three finishing skills such as taping joints, forming angles, applying protective coatings, or skim plastering to prepare surfaces for decoration.
Brilliant nvq course my assessor was Kehinde, and I honestly couldn’t have asked for better support. Everything was explained clearly and I felt supported every step.
John helped me through every stage of the NVQ. Really friendly and always quick to respond to any queries I had. Would definitely recommend this course to others.
The nvq was easier than I expected thanks to Kehinde’s guidance. He made sure I was on track and always gave constructive feedback. Great experience all round.
I wasnt sure what to expect, but Kehinde was brilliant. He gave me the confidence to complete my NVQ and made the whole process stress free.
Got my nvq really quickly with hurak. My teacher was humza who was really helpful in helping me complete my nvq in just 4 weeks. Going to do my level 4 with them soon too.
A very helpful Staff and environment to achieve your goal. They are very helpful in any needs to make you comfortable and confident. Was a pleasure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Anyone currently working in a dry lining role—such as fixing plasterboard, forming partitions, or finishing surfaces—is eligible. You must be active on-site and able to demonstrate your skills in real working conditions.
No. You don’t need prior qualifications. This NVQ is based on your existing site experience and practical skills.
Yes. This qualification is available nationwide and is assessed on-site or remotely through evidence collection.
It is entirely site-assessed. There are no exams or classroom sessions—your skills are assessed in your normal working environment.
Tasks may include fixing plasterboard to walls and ceilings, installing metal partitions, taping and jointing, sanding, and preparing surfaces for finishing—depending on your role.
You’ll submit work-based evidence such as photos, videos, method statements, witness testimonies, and discussions with your assessor.
Most learners complete the NVQ within 6–12 weeks, but this depends on how quickly you collect and submit your evidence.
Your assessor will review your portfolio. Once it meets all requirements, you'll be awarded the NVQ certificate.
No. You won’t fail outright. If anything is missing or below standard, your assessor will guide you on how to improve and resubmit.
Yes. Once registered for the NVQ and having passed the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test, you can apply for the CSCS Red Experienced Worker Card.
Yes. Upon completion, you’ll qualify for the CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card, which confirms your competence to employers.
Yes. It’s a regulated, industry-recognised qualification that’s widely accepted by contractors and construction employers.
If your employer is CITB-registered, they may be able to claim grant funding to offset the cost of your NVQ.
It can lead to better job security, higher pay, access to the Blue CSCS Card, and eligibility for advanced qualifications like supervisory NVQs.
