NVQ Level 3 Plastering Course

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.

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

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:

1. Complete this NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Plastering (Construction)
2. Pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test for Operatives
3. 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.