NVQ vs CSCS Card: What Is the Difference?
People often use the two terms as if they mean the same thing. They do not.
An NVQ is a qualification
An NVQ shows that you can do your job to a national standard. It is assessed on real work, so it suits people who already work in the trade.
A CSCS card is proof
The card is what site managers check at the gate. It shows you hold the right qualification and have passed the correct CITB health, safety and environment test.
How they connect
For the blue, gold and black cards, a relevant NVQ or SVQ is usually the qualification behind the card. So the sensible order is: gain the NVQ, pass the HS&E test, then apply for the card.
Not sure which route is right for you?
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