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Level 5 NVQ Diploma in Controlling Lifting Operations (Planning Lifts)
Level 5 NVQ Diploma in Controlling Lifting Operations (Planning Lifts)
The Level 5 NVQ Diploma in Controlling Lifting Operations (Planning Lifts) is a competence-based construction NVQ awarded by GQA (a CITB-approved centre). Assessed entirely in your workplace via remote e-portfolio — no exams, nationwide. It costs £1,350 fixed with no VAT, typically takes 6–10 weeks with assessment carried out remotely or on site from your normal work — no exams, no classroom.
Qualification Overview
The Level 5 NVQ Diploma in Controlling Lifting Operations (Planning Lifts) is a competence-based construction NVQ awarded by GQA (a CITB-approved centre). Assessed entirely in your workplace via remote e-portfolio — no exams, nationwide.
Qualification Structure
The Level 5 NVQ Diploma in Controlling Lifting Operations (Planning Lifts) is built from mandatory and optional units. You complete all mandatory units, plus optional units chosen to match your pathway.
Mandatory units Required — all 7
You must complete all 7 mandatory units.
| Unit no. | Unit title | Level | Credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| K/616/7692 | Planning Lifting Activities Using Cranes and/or Lifting Equipment in the Workplace | 5 | 21 |
| M/616/7693 | Planning and Establishing Health, Safety, Welfare and Environmental Systems for | 5 | 17 |
| K/507/9540 | Planning Work Activities and Resources to Meet Work Requirements in the Workplace | 4 | 12 |
| J/508/0551 | Evaluating and Selecting Work Methods to Meet Project or Operational Requirements | 6 | 11 |
| Y/508/0585 | Planning the Preparation of the Site for the Project or Operation in the Workplace | 6 | 11 |
| L/508/0583 | Identifying, Allocating and Planning the Deployment and Use of Plant, Equipment or | 5 | 9 |
| M/503/2915 | Developing and Maintaining Good Occupational Working Relationships in the | 5 | 8 |
Qualification facts
- Qualification number (QAN): 603/2746/7
- Assessment method: Portfolio of Evidence (workplace observation, witness testimony, professional discussion and knowledge questions)
Available pathway
This qualification is delivered as GQA Level 5 NVQ Diploma in Controlling Lifting Operations – Planning Lifts (Construction) — a single competence-based NVQ with a choice of specialist pathways. You qualify in the pathway that matches the work you already do on site, assessed by remote e-portfolio. Available pathways include Appointed Person / Planning Lifts, Crane Appointed Person, Lift Planner.
- Appointed Person / Planning Lifts
- Crane Appointed Person
- Lift Planner
Popular routes include appointed person, planning lifts, crane appointed person, lift planner. Tell us your trade and we’ll confirm the right pathway and CSCS card outcome (Check role-specific route; often a CPCS/NPORS Appointed Person card rather than standard CSCS).
Entry requirements
You plan and control work rather than carry it out — for example planning lifting operations.
To start Level 5 qualification you need:
- A relevant job to be assessed in. This is a competence qualification, so you must have access to real work of the right type while you are registered. No workplace, no evidence.
- Proof of identity — a passport, driving licence or similar, as the awarding body requires.
- A National Insurance number, so we can obtain your Unique Learner Number.
- Enough English to explain your work to your assessor and to talk through your evidence.
- A device with a camera — a phone is fine. Evidence is photos and short videos of your own work, uploaded to your e-portfolio.
You do not need: any prior qualification, any classroom attendance, or to sit an exam. Assessment is entirely in your workplace via a remote e-portfolio, nationwide.
Tell us about any support need, disability or learning difficulty when you enrol and we will arrange reasonable adjustments — it does not affect whether you can take the qualification.
The awarding body sets the final entry criteria for each qualification. If you are not sure whether your current role gives you the right evidence, ask us before you book — we would rather tell you honestly than register you for something you cannot complete.
What card does this NVQ lead to?
CSCS card route
CSCS card routes for lifting qualifications vary by role — check the CSCS Card Finder for the correct card for your job.
Your NVQ pathway
- Level 2 Skilled
- Level 3 Advanced
- Level 4 Supervisor
- Level 5 Senior Supervisor
- Level 6 Manager
Your current qualification is highlighted. Progress up the pathway as your career develops.
How the e-portfolio assessment works
- Enrol and be assigned a dedicated occupational assessor.
- Gather workplace evidence — photos, videos, witness statements — via our online portal.
- Complete a professional discussion and observations against the 603/2746/7 standards.
- Certification, then apply to CSCS for your card.
What candidates say about this qualification
“Great experience and Joseph was a great assessor helping me with Level 5 lifting operations. Thank you.”
Paul Davies — Verified Google review ↗
“Done my Level 5 NVQ Appointed Person with them, it was a good experience. I will be using them for future courses and would recommend them.”
Oren Storey — Verified Google review ↗
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Controlling Lifting Operations (Planning Lifts) NVQ take?
Most learners complete in 6–10 weeks, depending on how quickly workplace evidence is gathered.
Are there any exams?
No. This is a competence-based qualification assessed through workplace evidence, observation and professional discussion.
Is funding available?
CITB-registered employers can claim an achievement grant. See our funding guide for details.
Choose your pathway
This qualification is assessed against your actual job role — pick the pathway page that matches yours: