01244 722697
Mon–Fri 8am–6pm
info@ctg.org.uk
Drainage — Highways NVQ
Drainage — Highways NVQ
The Drainage — Highways NVQ Level 2 assesses operatives installing and maintaining highway drainage systems. It leads to the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker card. 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, and leads to the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker card.
Qualification Overview
If you install, clean and maintain gullies, pipework, chambers and linear drainage on the highway network, this pathway recognises your competence under the Highways Maintenance NVQ.
Assessment is evidence-based from your live drainage work, remotely or on site, typically over 4–8 weeks.
Qualification Structure
Key information
| Full title | Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Construction Operations and Civil Engineering — Highways Maintenance |
| Qualification code | 601/8294/5 |
| Level | 2 |
| Awarding body | GQA |
| Typical completion | 4–8 weeks |
| Assessment | Remote or on-site evidence — no exams, no classroom |
| Typical CSCS route | Blue CSCS Skilled Worker |
Who this NVQ is for
Highway drainage operatives and gangs who need a recognised Level 2 qualification and the Blue CSCS card.
Entry requirements
You need to be working in the role (or able to evidence recent competent work) so an assessor can gather real workplace evidence. No exams and no classroom — your day-to-day work is the evidence.
CSCS card route
With this Level 2 NVQ plus the CITB HS&E operatives test you can apply for the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker card — proof of qualified status on any UK site.
Frequently asked questions
I do general groundworks drainage, not highways — is this right for me?
If most of your drainage work is on the highway network this is the right pathway; for general site drainage see the Drainage & Pipe Laying NVQ.
Cost?
£750 fixed, no VAT.
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 610/0052/9 standards.
- Certification, then apply to CSCS for your card.