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NVQ Level 3 Plastering Course
Complete your NVQ Level 3 in Plastering with on-site assessment and flexible online support — move into senior roles and qualify for your CSCS Gold Skilled Worker Card.
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4.8(869 ratings)
Rated Excellent
on major review sites
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What is the NVQ Level 3 in Plastering?
The NVQ Level 3 in Plastering is a nationally recognised qualification for experienced plasterers who want to formalise their skills and move into more senior roles. It demonstrates that you can work to an advanced standard, supervise others if required, and maintain high-quality plastering finishes across a range of projects.
NVQ Level 3 Plastering – Work-Based Qualification 🧱
Unlike traditional courses, this qualification is assessed through the real work you already do on-site, with no need for written exams or time in a classroom. Once complete, you'll have a valuable qualification that proves your expertise and opens the door to applying for the CSCS Gold Skilled Worker Card.Who Should Take the NVQ Level 3 in Plastering?
The Plastering NVQ Level 3 is designed for experienced plasterers who are already working on-site and want to take their career to the next level. If you’re responsible for delivering high-quality finishes, mentoring junior team members, or taking on more complex projects, this qualification helps formalise your expertise.
It’s ideal if you’re aiming to move into supervisory roles, boost your earning potential, or apply for the CSCS Gold Skilled Worker Card.
What’s Covered in the Plastering NVQ Level 3?
When you enrol in this NVQ, what you cover will depend on the type of plastering work you specialise in.
You'll choose one of two available pathways:
- Pathway 1 – Solid Plastering
- Pathway 2 – Fibrous Plastering
Each pathway has a set of mandatory units specific to your plastering specialism. However, no matter which route you take, you’ll also cover essential skills such as:
- ✓ Confirming work activities and resources in the workplace
- ✓ Maintaining effective working relationships on-site
- ✓ Complying with workplace health, safety and welfare regulations
- ✓ Confirming occupational methods of work
🛠️ Note: Your assessor will help you choose the right pathway based on the type of plastering work you regularly carry out.
What Happens After I Enrol?
Once you’ve enrolled, we’ll get you set up on our online learner platform and introduce you to your assessor. They’ll be your main point of contact throughout the course.
You’ll start with a short induction session where your assessor will walk you through the process and help you get ready to begin.
In your induction, you’ll:
- Get access to your online learner dashboard
- Learn how to upload on-site evidence and track your progress
- Receive a clear overview of how the qualification will be completed
After that, you’ll work at your own pace to build your portfolio using real tasks from your day-to-day plastering work, with full one-to-one support whenever you need it.
How Long Does this NVQ Level 3 Take to Finish?
The time it takes to complete this NVQ depends entirely on how consistently you can gather and submit evidence from your on-site plastering work. Since it's a flexible, work-based qualification, you’re in control of the pace.
Some learners finish in just a few weeks, while others may take longer based on their workload and availability. You’ll have up to 12 months to complete the qualification, but most learners complete it in 4–5 weeks with regular support from their assessor.
How Will I Be Assessed on the NVQ Level 3 Plastering Course?
The assessment is entirely work-based and built around your real plastering tasks. Instead of exams or theory-based assignments, you’ll collect evidence that proves your skills on-site.
To complete your NVQ, you’ll need to:
- Answer a few short knowledge-based questions related to plastering
- Upload photos or videos of you carrying out advanced plastering work
- Submit job-related documents like site diaries, material records, or risk assessments
- Provide a brief witness statement from a colleague or supervisor confirming your role
You don’t need to be. Your assessor will work with you one-on-one, breaking the process into clear steps. You’ll get feedback, reminders, and full guidance all the way until your portfolio is complete and ready for internal verification. We’re proud to boast a 100% pass rate for this NVQ.
Are there Any Entry Requirements for this Qualification?
To enrol, you’ll need to be an experienced plasterer already working in the trade - either on residential or commercial projects. This NVQ is designed for tradespeople who are actively involved in advanced plastering tasks, not those new to the role. You should already be confident in applying complex finishes, interpreting drawings, and managing quality standards on-site.
What Qualification Will I Achieve?
Once you complete this plastering qualification, you’ll receive the Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Plastering (Construction) - a nationally recognised qualification that confirms your ability to work to an advanced standard in the trade.
Earning this Level 3 diploma also makes you eligible to apply for the CSCS Gold Skilled Worker Card, which is widely required for senior plastering roles on construction sites across the UK.
Where Can I Progress After Completing this NVQ?
Completing the NVQ Level 3 in Plastering is a major step forward in your career. It can help you secure senior plastering roles, lead small teams, and qualify for better-paid projects.
If you’re aiming to move further into site management or supervisory roles, the natural next step after this qualification is the Level 4 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Supervision. This opens the door to roles like site supervisor and assistant site manager, and eligibility for the CSCS Gold Supervisor Card.
Why Choose the Level 3 Plastering Course?
The NVQ Level 3 in Plastering gives experienced tradespeople a formal route to prove their advanced skills, unlock senior job roles, and progress toward supervisory positions - all while working on-site.
- ✓ Apply for the CSCS Gold Skilled Worker Card
This qualification makes you eligible for the Gold Card — required for advanced roles and supervisory access on UK sites. - ✓ No Exams or Classroom Work
Everything is assessed through the job you already do — no need for revision, written tests, or college days. - ✓ Nationally Recognised Qualification
The Level 3 NVQ is respected across the UK as proof of your ability to work at a higher, more responsible level in the trade. - ✓ Progress into Site Supervision
After this course, you can advance to a Level 4 NVQ in Site Supervision and move toward management roles in construction. - ✓ 100% Pass Rate
With full assessor support and a step-by-step process, our learners consistently achieve a 100% pass rate on this course.
Can I Complete the Plastering NVQ Level 3 Online?
Yes, this Level 3 qualification is completed through the work you already do on-site. There are no classroom sessions or written exams. After you enrol, we’ll give you access to your online learner portal, where you’ll upload evidence and communicate directly with your assessor.
How Much Does the NVQ Level 3 Plastering Cost?
The total fee for this qualification is £899.99. This covers everything: access to your learner dashboard, full support from your assessor, and your official NVQ certificate once you complete the course.
💡 We also offer interest-free instalment plans, so you can spread the cost and get started right away, with no hidden fees or surprise charges along the way.
What Job Roles Can this NVQ Help Me Access?
Completing the Level 3 NVQ in Plastering proves that you can work to a high professional standard - and opens the door to a variety of senior roles within the construction and plastering industry, including:
- ✓ Senior Plasterer
- ✓ Team Leader (Plastering Focus)
- ✓ Supervisor or Foreman (Plastering Teams)
- ✓ Heritage Plastering Specialist
- ✓ Plastering Quality Inspector
What’s the Earning Potential After Completing the NVQ Level 3 Plastering?
Qualified Level 3 plasterers can earn upwards of £35,000 to £50,000+ per year, depending on experience, project complexity, and region.
Those who move into supervisory roles or work on specialist contracts may earn significantly more, especially on commercial or heritage projects.
How Do I Get the CSCS Gold Card as a Plasterer?
To apply for the Gold CSCS Plastering Card, you’ll need to:
- Complete this NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Plastering (Construction)
- Pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test for Operatives
- Submit your NVQ certificate and CITB test result via the CSCS website
📌 The Gold Card is valid for 5 years and is required for senior plastering roles on most UK construction sites. For more details, see our blog on How to Get a CSCS Gold Card.
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
You’ll have a full 12 months to complete the qualification, but most learners complete it in around 4 to 5 weeks with regular assessor guidance.
You’ll need to upload photos, videos, and documents that show your plastering work. This could include method statements, job logs, material sheets, and a short witness testimony from a colleague or supervisor.
No, there are no written exams, classroom lessons, or revision involved. You’ll complete the NVQ remotely by submitting on-site evidence from your actual plastering work.
Yes, this course is entirely remote. As long as you're working in a plastering role, you can complete it from anywhere without attending a centre.
Yes, our Pass Assurance Policy means you’ll receive one-to-one support to help you complete the qualification successfully. Your assessor will guide you through each step until your portfolio meets the required standard.
Absolutely. You’ll be assigned a dedicated assessor who will check in regularly, answer your questions, and give detailed feedback on your progress.
Your assessor will review your portfolio and submit it for internal verification. Once approved, you’ll be awarded your official Level 3 NVQ certificate and can apply for the CSCS Gold Skiller Worker Card.
Very unlikely. As long as you’re actively working in plastering and can provide quality evidence for each unit, your assessor will guide you in meeting the required standard.
Yes, it’s eligible under CITB’s grant scheme. Your employer must be CITB-registered and meet their funding criteria to access this support.
Yes, the NVQ is completed through your current on-site work. No need to travel or attend a training centre. Wherever you’re based, you can complete the qualification remotely.
Yes, once registered, you can apply for a Red CSCS Experienced Worker Card, allowing you to continue working on-site legally while you complete the course.