Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Formwork
The Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Formwork 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 £750 fixed with no VAT, typically takes 4–8 weeks with assessment carried out remotely or on site from your normal work — no exams, no classroom.
Qualification Overview
The Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Formwork 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 2 NVQ Diploma in Formwork is built from mandatory and optional units. You complete all mandatory units, plus optional units chosen to match your pathway.
Mandatory units Required — all 3
You must complete all 3 mandatory units.
| Unit no. | Unit title | Level | Credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| A/503/1170 | Conforming to General Health, Safety and Welfare in the Workplace | 1 | 2 |
| J/503/1169 | Conforming to Productive Working Practices in the Workplace | 2 | 3 |
| F/503/1171 | Moving, Handling and Storing Resources in the Workplace | 2 | 5 |
Optional units Choose to suit your pathway
Select and complete the optional units chosen with your assessor to match the tasks you carry out on site.
| Unit no. | Unit title | Level | Credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Y/650/0366 | (Pathway 1 – Formwork Carpenter) Fabricating and maintaining timber and proprietary formwork systems in the workplace | 2 | 17 |
| A/650/0367 | (Pathway 1 – Formwork Carpenter) Erecting and striking timber and proprietary formwork in the workplace | 2 | 20 |
| A/650/0367 | (Pathway 2 – Formwork Erector and Striker) Erecting and striking timber and proprietary formwork in the workplace | 2 | 20 |
| K/650/0498 | (Pathway 2 – Formwork Erector and Striker) Maintaining timber and proprietary formwork systems in the workplace | 2 | 12 |
Qualification facts
- Qualification number (QAN): 610/0109/1
- Assessment method: Portfolio of Evidence (workplace observation, witness testimony, professional discussion and knowledge questions)
Available pathway
This qualification is delivered as GQA Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Formwork (Construction) V2 — 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 Formwork Carpenter, Formwork Erector / Striker, Proprietary Formwork, Timber Formwork.
- Formwork Carpenter
- Formwork Erector / Striker
- Proprietary Formwork
- Timber Formwork
Popular routes include formwork carpenter, shuttering carpenter, formwork erector, striker, proprietary formwork, timber formwork. Tell us your trade and we’ll confirm the right pathway and CSCS card outcome (Blue CSCS Skilled Worker).
Entry requirements
You are already doing the work day to day, as an employee or self-employed. There are no entry qualifications and no exams — you are assessed on the job you already do.
To start Level 2 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?
Leads to the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker card
On completion you can apply for the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker card, proving competence in your trade.
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 610/0109/1 standards.
- Certification, then apply to CSCS for your card.
What candidates say about this qualification
“Recently passed my level 2 Formwork with this company. I found them to be nothing short of exceptional — constant communication, help and support throughout my course. Would highly recommend using the knowledge and support of this company and professionalism of the team. Will definitely recommend their service to friends and coworkers alike.”
Jon Brownlow — Verified Google review ↗
“Excellent service, really professional. Recently completed my level 2 NVQ in formwork — completed efficiently, would highly recommend.”
Nigel Brownlow — Verified Google review ↗
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Formwork NVQ take?
Most learners complete in 4–8 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.

