CITB NVQ – A career path to Supervision & Management in Construction
21 April 2025
CITB offers a range of NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) Diplomas designed to develop the skills and competencies of workers in the construction industry. These qualifications assess real-world performance rather than theoretical knowledge, making them valuable for career progression without the requirement to take an exam.
Which NVQ Is Right for You?
Each NVQ is progressive, meaning you can start at Level 3, move to Level 4, and eventually achieve Level 6 as your career advances.
NVQ Level
Level 3 (OWS)
Level 4 (CSS)
Level 6 (CSM)
Suitable for
Site Supervisors / Team Leaders
Supervisors Managing Trades & Subcontractors
Site Managers & Senior Supervisors
CSCS Card
Gold Supervisor Card
Gold Supervisor Card
Black Manager Card
1. Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Occupational Work Supervision (OWS)
Who is it for?
- Those already working as supervisors or looking to take on a supervisory role.
- Ideal for tradespeople moving into a leadership position on-site.
- Those aiming for a Gold CSCS Supervisor Card.
Course Overview:
This qualification focuses on supervising teams, maintaining health and safety, and ensuring work quality meets industry standards.
Core Units (Typical Modules Include):
✅ Maintaining Health & Safety on Site
✅ Coordinating Work Activities and Resources
✅ Implementing & Monitoring Work Procedures
✅ Developing Team Performance & Communication
✅ Ensuring Work Meets Quality Standards
Assessment Method:
- On-site assessment (workplace evidence, observations, and professional discussions).
- No exams—competence is assessed based on real-world performance.
Progression:
- Leads to Level 4 NVQ in Construction Site Supervision.
- Qualifies for a Gold CSCS Supervisor Card.
Can I get funding for my CITB NVQ 3 diploma?
YES - as a CITB ATO RISK can help you to...
► Access 70% to 100% Grants and Funding via the CITB Employer Network
► You get the best training, with no hidden costs or compromise
► Delivering the training and supporting EACH delegate through the process
Book online today or call us 01623 749718 to find out more
2. Level 4 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Supervision (CSS)
Who is it for?
- Those already in a site supervisory role or aiming to move into one.
- Those who want to qualify for the Gold CSCS Supervisor Card.
Course Overview:
This NVQ covers a broader range of supervisory responsibilities, focusing on planning, organising, and controlling site work.
Core Units (Typical Modules Include):
✅ Managing Health, Safety & Welfare in Construction
✅ Maintaining Systems for Managing Workforce Productivity
✅ Monitoring & Controlling Work Quality
✅ Managing Work Methods & Materials
✅ Coordinating Subcontractors & Trades
Specialist Pathways Available:
- Building & Civil Engineering
- Highways Maintenance & Repair
- Residential Development
- Demolition
- Tunnelling
Assessment Method:
- On-site assessment via portfolio evidence, observations, and professional discussions.
Progression:
- Leads to Level 6 NVQ in Construction Site Management.
- Qualifies for a Gold CSCS Supervisor Card.
Can I get funding for my CITB NVQ 4 diploma?
YES - as a CITB ATO RISK can help you to...
► Access 70% to 100% Grants and Funding via the CITB Employer Network
► You get the best training, with no hidden costs or compromise
► Delivering the training and supporting EACH delegate through the process
Book online today or call us 01623 749718 to find out more
3. Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Management (CSM)
Who is it for?
- Senior supervisors, site managers, or those moving into a construction management role.
- Those aiming for the Black CSCS Manager Card.
Course Overview:
This advanced qualification covers the full scope of construction site management, from health and safety to budgeting and resource management.
Core Units (Typical Modules Include):
✅ Developing & Maintaining Health, Safety & Welfare Systems
✅ Managing Project Planning & Programme Work
✅ Allocating & Managing Site Resources (Labour, Materials, Equipment)
✅ Controlling Costs & Budgets
✅ Leadership & Conflict Resolution on Site
✅ Managing Environmental & Sustainability Aspects of Construction
Specialist Pathways Available:
- Building & Civil Engineering
- Highways Maintenance & Repair
- Residential Development
- Demolition
- Tunnelling
Assessment Method:
- On-site assessment via portfolio evidence, observations, and professional discussions.
- No written exams, but extensive practical evidence is required.
Progression:
- Qualifies for a Black CSCS Manager Card.
- Can lead to Chartered Membership of CIOB (MCIOB) via the Professional Review route.
Can I get funding for my CITB NVQ 6 diploma?
YES - as a CITB ATO RISK can help you to...
► Access 70% to 100% Grants and Funding via the CITB Employer Network
► You get the best training, with no hidden costs or compromise
► Delivering the training and supporting EACH delegate through the process
Book online today or call us 01623 749718 to find out more