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NVQ Level 2 Excavator
Get your NVQ Level 2 in Excavation and prove your skills operating 360° or 180° excavators on site. No classroom training – just practical experience, on-site assessment, and the next step toward your Blue CPCS or NPORS card.
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Course Features
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What Is the NVQ Level 2 in Excavation?
The NVQ Level 2 in Excavation is designed for individuals who operate 360° or 180° excavators on construction sites. Whether you're digging trenches, preparing foundations, or levelling surfaces, this qualification formally recognises your skills and experience.
It proves your competence in handling excavating machinery safely and efficiently, and supports your application for the Blue CPCS or NPORS Competent Operator Card — essential for progressing in the construction and plant operations industry.
This card proves your competence as an excavator operator. Once you’ve completed the NVQ Level 2 in Excavation and passed the CITB HS&E Test, you can apply for the Blue CPCS or NPORS Card — valid for 5 years and recognised across the UK. It enhances your credibility on site, increases earning potential, and opens doors to more advanced roles.
Who Should Take the NVQ Level 2 in Excavation?
This qualification is ideal for those operating excavators on active construction sites and looking to gain formal recognition of their skills. It offers a practical, on-site assessment route to help you progress or apply for a Blue CPCS or NPORS Card.
This NVQ is available to operators who hold a valid Red CPCS or NPORS Trained Operator Card, having completed one of the following excavator training courses:
- CPCS A58: 360° Excavator – Tracked (Below 10 Tonnes)
- CPCS A59A: 360° Excavator – Tracked (Above 10 Tonnes)
- CPCS A59B: 360° Excavator – Wheeled (Above 10 Tonnes)
- CPCS A10: 180° Excavator – Backhoe Loader (Below 5 Tonnes)
- CPCS A12: 180° Excavator – Backhoe Loader (Above 5 Tonnes)
- NPORS N202: 360° Excavator – Tracked or Wheeled
- NPORS N201: 180° Excavator – Backhoe Loader
What’s Covered in the NVQ Level 2 in Excavation?
The NVQ Level 2 in Excavation is a practical, work-based qualification for those using 360° or 180° excavators on active construction sites. You’ll complete two core units focused on site safety and effective working practices, along with excavation-specific units that reflect your day-to-day role.
Whether you're operating tracked or wheeled excavators above or below 10 tonnes (360°) or using 180° machines above or below 5 tonnes, your assessment will take place entirely on site. There's no classroom study or written exams—just observation and evidence of your real work.
With this NVQ, you’ll learn how to:
- ✓ Operate 360° or 180° excavators safely and efficiently on site
- ✓ Carry out digging, trenching, lifting, and placing tasks accurately
- ✓ Conduct daily pre-use checks and routine maintenance on excavators
- ✓ Shut down, isolate, and secure equipment following safety protocols
- ✓ Handle and transport materials safely across a live construction site
- ✓ Work within site safety systems, including PPE, signage, and environmental controls
Are there Any Entry Requirements for this Qualification?
To enrol on the NVQ Level 2 in Excavation, you must already be working on a live construction site as an excavator operator and hold a valid CPCS or NPORS Red Trained Operator Card for either 360° or 180° machines.
🎯 Don’t Have a Red Card Yet?
Here’s what to do:
- Pass the CITB HS&E Test (within the last 2 years)
- Complete a relevant CPCS or NPORS Technical Test (theory + practical)
- Receive your Red Card and start collecting NVQ evidence while working
How Do I Complete this NVQ?
This qualification is assessed entirely on-site while you carry out your usual excavator operations. There are no classroom sessions or written exams. Instead, your daily activities—such as digging, lifting, grading, or trenching—are observed and used as evidence for assessment.
Once you're enrolled, an assessor will schedule a one-to-one induction to guide you through the process. During this session, you’ll:
- Receive access to our online platform to manage your NVQ progress
- Learn how to upload on-site evidence like photos, videos, and work records
- Understand what each unit involves and how to build your NVQ portfolio
Whether you're working in London, Leeds, Liverpool, Birmingham, or anywhere else in the UK, you can complete this excavation NVQ on-site without time away from your job. There are no classroom sessions or exams—just practical, work-based assessment tailored to your role with 360° or 180° excavators.
How Long Does the Level 2 NVQ in Excavation Take?
The duration of this NVQ depends on how frequently you're working and how quickly you can gather evidence from your daily excavator operations. Since this is a competency-based qualification, you’ll progress by demonstrating the work you already carry out on site—such as digging trenches, grading surfaces, or lifting materials with a 360° or 180° excavator.
Although you’ll have up to 12 months to complete the NVQ, most learners finish within 3 to 4 weeks. If you're working regularly and stay engaged with your assessor, you could complete it in as little as 2 weeks.
How Is the NVQ Assessed?
This NVQ is assessed entirely through the work you carry out on site. There are no written exams or classroom sessions. Instead, you'll build a portfolio that shows your ability to operate 360° or 180° excavators in real site conditions—using the correct techniques, tools, and safety practices required in construction projects.
Your assessment will include:
- Answering questions about the day-to-day duties you perform as an excavator operator
- Submitting site documents such as risk assessments, method statements, or daily checklists
- Uploading photos or videos of your excavator work, including trenching or lifting operations
- Providing a signed witness testimony from your supervisor or site manager
You’re not alone. With over 15 years of experience delivering construction NVQs and a proven track record of learner success, we’ll guide you through every step. Get one-to-one support to complete your excavation NVQ with confidence.
What Qualification Will You Achieve?
After completing your assessment, you’ll receive a certificate for the Level 2 NVQ in Excavation. This qualification confirms your competence in operating 360° or 180° excavators safely, accurately, and in line with recognised industry standards.
Once qualified, you can apply for the CPCS or NPORS Blue Skilled Worker Card. This can lead to better job opportunities, increased earning potential, and formal recognition of your excavator operator skills on-site.
How Can You Progress After Completing this Qualification?
After completing the NVQ Level 2 in Excavation, many operators choose to advance their career by moving into more specialised or supervisory roles. A natural next step is the NVQ Level 3 in Occupational Work Supervision, which is designed for those looking to take responsibility for teams, health and safety, and site coordination.
Completing a Level 3 NVQ will also make you eligible for the Gold CSCS Supervisory Card, which is widely recognised across the construction industry and opens doors to leadership opportunities.
What Are the Benefits of the Level 2 NVQ in Excavation?
This qualification offers practical, career-building advantages for operators of excavators:
- ✓ Upgrade to Blue Card – Use this NVQ to move from Red to Blue CPCS or NPORS status.
- ✓ Earn While You Learn – No exams or classroom time—complete it entirely on site.
- ✓ Boost Employability – Gain access to more secure and better-paid excavator jobs.
- ✓ Prove Your Skills – Show you can operate excavators safely with minimal supervision.
- ✓ Accepted Nationwide – Recognised by major contractors and construction firms across the UK.
- ✓ Open Training Routes – Progress to Level 3 NVQs like Work Supervision or Plant Operations.
- ✓ Improve Site Safety – Reinforce your understanding of PPE and safe excavation practice.
How Much Does the NVQ in Excavation Cost?
The full cost of the Level 2 NVQ in Excavation is £699.99. This all-inclusive price covers everything you need to complete the qualification, with expert support throughout:
- One-to-one guidance from an NVQ assessor experienced in excavator operations
- Online access to upload evidence such as photos, videos, and on-site documents
- Final portfolio review and official NVQ certification upon successful completion
💡 No hidden charges. You can also spread the cost using flexible, interest-free payment plans.
What Jobs Can I Apply for After this Excavation Qualification?
The Level 2 NVQ in Excavation qualifies you for skilled roles that involve operating 360° or 180° excavators on active construction sites. It’s ideal for those working in excavation, drainage, trenching, and general plant operations across civil engineering, housing, and infrastructure projects.
How Much Can I Earn with an Excavation NVQ?
Operators who hold a Level 2 NVQ in Excavation and a valid CPCS or NPORS Blue Skilled Worker Card typically earn between £32,000 and £45,000 per year. Your earnings may vary based on experience, location, and the type of work you undertake—such as housing developments, infrastructure projects, or large-scale civil engineering jobs.
Can I Complete the Excavation NVQ Online?
Yes — while the NVQ is assessed entirely on-site, you’ll receive full online support throughout. You’ll collect evidence from your day-to-day excavator work and upload photos, videos, and documents to your learner portal. There are no classroom sessions or written exams, making it easy to complete alongside your regular job.
How Do I Apply for the NPORS or CPCS Blue Excavator Card?
- Complete the Level 2 NVQ in Excavation – This confirms your competence in operating 360° or 180° excavators on site and fulfils the qualification requirement for the Blue Card.
- Pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test (Operatives) – A short multiple-choice test covering essential site safety practices.
- Apply through the official CPCS or NPORS website – Once both steps are complete, you can submit your application for the Blue Card.
Other Construction NVQs You May Be Interested In
If you're working in modular partitioning, commercial fit-outs, or internal systems, these related NVQs can help you upskill or progress into new roles:
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What you will learn
- Operate 180° or 360° excavators safely on site
- Follow site plans, signals & lift instructions
- Carry out daily machine checks & shutdowns
- Use PPE & follow site safety rules correctly
- Excavate, move & position materials precisely
- Communicate clearly with team & supervisors
Course content
This unit covers essential health and safety protocols. Learners must demonstrate an understanding of how to maintain a safe working environment, identify hazards, use PPE properly, and follow site rules and emergency procedures.
Focuses on working efficiently with others, understanding job roles, communicating clearly, resolving problems, and ensuring productivity on site.
You’ll select one unit that reflects the type of excavator you operate on-site:
-
Operate 180° Excavators to Excavate Ground and Loose Materials
Learn to safely operate 180° backhoe loaders to dig, load, and move materials during excavation work. -
Operate 360° Excavators (Tracked or Wheeled)
Covers the use of 360° excavators for digging, trenching, lifting, and loading on construction sites. -
Operate 360° Excavators to Extract Ground, Face or Loose Materials
Focuses on using a 360° excavator to dig directly from a face or embankment with precision and safety. -
Operate Draglines to Excavate Materials
Teaches safe operation of dragline equipment for deep excavation and long-reach digging. -
Operate Trenchers to Excavate Ground
Designed for those using trenching machines to create narrow, controlled trenches on-site. -
Operate Tracked Loading Shovels to Extract and Move Materials
Suitable for operators using tracked shovels for site clearance, stockpiling, or transporting loose materials.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The NVQ Level 2 in Excavation is a nationally recognised qualification that proves your ability to operate 360° or 180° excavators on-site to an industry-approved standard. It is assessed entirely through your day-to-day work and allows you to gain formal recognition without attending classroom sessions or sitting written exams.
You don’t need any academic qualifications, but you must already hold a Red CPCS or NPORS Trained Operator Card in the appropriate excavator category. This ensures you’re already trained and active on-site when you begin your NVQ assessment.
This qualification is open to excavator operators already working on construction sites who want to move forward in their career or upgrade to a Blue CPCS or NPORS card. Whether you're using tracked or wheeled excavators, above or below 10 tonnes, you can complete this NVQ as long as you meet the entry requirements.
To enrol, you must have completed a recognised training course and hold a Red Card for the machine you use. This includes categories for 360° tracked or wheeled excavators and 180° backhoe loaders, with machine sizes typically divided above or below 5 or 10 tonnes depending on the card type.
No classroom attendance is required, and there are no written exams. You’ll complete the NVQ by providing work-based evidence and being observed by a qualified assessor while using your excavator on site.
Yes, the entire qualification is built around your usual working routine. There are no interruptions to your job, and all assessment takes place during your normal operating tasks under real conditions.
Your assessment will cover a range of practical excavation activities such as digging, trenching, grading, lifting, and following safety procedures. Everything is based on the tasks you already carry out as part of your job.
You’ll need to gather evidence such as photos and videos of your work, site documentation like job sheets or method statements, and witness testimonies from supervisors. Your assessor will guide you through what’s required and how to submit it through your online portfolio.
Making a mistake won’t automatically result in failure. Your assessor will support you in addressing any issues and help you provide additional evidence if needed. The NVQ is about demonstrating consistent competence, not perfection in a single task.
Most learners complete the qualification within 2 to 6 weeks, depending on how frequently they work and how quickly evidence is submitted. You will have up to 12 months to finish, but most operatives complete it well before that deadline.
If you haven’t got a Red Card yet, you’ll first need to pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test and then complete a relevant CPCS or NPORS excavator course. Once you receive the Red Card, you can begin collecting evidence for your NVQ.
Yes, a dedicated assessor will be assigned to you throughout the qualification. They’ll explain the assessment process, help you understand what evidence to provide, and ensure you stay on track to complete your NVQ successfully.
Once your portfolio is complete, your assessor will review and internally verify your evidence. If everything meets the national standards, you’ll be awarded the NVQ certificate and become eligible to upgrade your card.
Yes, the NVQ Level 2 in Excavation meets the requirements for upgrading from a Red Trained Operator Card to the Blue Competent Operator Card under either the CPCS or NPORS scheme. This confirms your full occupational competence.
Yes, if your employer is CITB-registered, they may be eligible to claim grant funding to cover part or all of the NVQ cost. Check with your employer or training provider to see what support is available.
Completing this NVQ helps you unlock better job opportunities, apply for more advanced site roles, and improve your pay prospects. It also allows you to take on higher-responsibility tasks and opens the door to supervisory NVQs in the future.
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