How Long Does Construction Training Take?

If you’re looking to develop your career in construction, the right training is usually essential. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced labourer looking to move into a more advanced role, the right qualifications can open doors to all sorts of new, and better, job opportunities. But how long does construction training tend to take?

The answer depends on the type of qualification you’re obtaining. NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications), which are work-based and competency-focused, have no set time limit. Candidates simply take as long as they need. Other training courses specific to the construction industry, like SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme) and SSSTS (Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme), follow a set schedule.

Today’s blog will break down the duration of some of the most popular construction training courses, helping you plan the next steps for your career.

Construction Training

How Long Do Construction NVQs Take?

NVQs are flexible, work-based qualifications with no set deadlines. The assessment process is based on tasks you’re completing at your current job, rather than exams. The time it takes to complete an NVQ fully depends on:

Your experience level: If you have years of experience in your particular trade, you’ll probably be able to complete the NVQ quite quickly
The level of the NVQ: Higher-level NVQs require more in-depth evidence and assessment
How quickly you can compile evidence: The faster you submit your portfolio and assessments, the sooner you’ll be able to qualify

At CST Training, some NVQs can be completed in as little as 4 to 8 weeks, while others can take 8 to 12 weeks; it depends on your circumstances. Since there’s no time limit, you can work at your own pace, with no disruptions to your job. You don’t need to get the NVQ completed in any set period of time, unless you have your own personal deadline due to your circumstances (for example, if your employer wants you to have completed your NVQ before a certain date so you can apply for a CSCS Card).

Some of the most popular NVQs include:

NVQ Level 2: For specific trades like Painting and Decorating, Carpentry, and Bricklaying
NVQ Level 3: More advanced qualifications, for specific trades or for experienced workers who have moved into supervisory positions
NVQ Level 4 – 6: For Site Supervisors and Site Managers aiming for senior positions
NVQ Level 7: Primarily for professionals in senior management positions.

How Long Do SMSTS and SSSTS Courses Take?

Unlike NVQs, SSSTS and SMSTS courses follow a set structure and must be completed within a specific timeframe.

SSSTS (Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme)
- A 2-day course for those moving into a supervisory role
- Covers health and safety laws, risk assessments, and site supervision
SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme)
- A 5-day course designed for site managers
- Covers legal responsibilities, site safety management, and leadership skills

Both courses are valid for 5 years, after which you’ll need to take a refresher course to renew your certification.

construction site

Other Construction Training Courses

Besides NVQs, SSSTS, and SMSTS, training courses relevant to the construction industry tend to vary in length depending on the course content:

CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test: 45 minutes (required for obtaining a CSCS card)
First Aid at Work: 1 to 3 days, depending on the level of certification
Temporary Works Coordinator Course: 2 days for those overseeing temporary works
SEATS (Site Environmental Awareness Training Scheme): 1 day covering environmental risks on-site

These courses provide specialist knowledge, and are often required for site access, job roles, or CSCS card applications.

How to Complete Construction Training as Quickly as Possible

If you’re eager to qualify fast, here are some tips:

For NVQs:

Choose the right level based on your experience
Set aside some time every week to dedicate to compiling evidence

For SMSTS and SSSTS:

Book a course that fits your professional schedule
Consider taking the course online if possible; this can often be the more accessible option for busy professionals

For CSCS Cards:

Pass the CITB Health & Safety Test as soon as possible
Apply for the correct CSCS card based on your qualification

Conclusion: How Long Does Construction Training Take?

The time required for construction training depends on your chosen course. With CST Training, NVQs can be completed in as little as 4 to 8 weeks, while others may take 8 to 12 weeks; but there’s no set time limit. You can take months to complete the NVQ if you need to. Short courses like SSSTS, SMSTS, and first aid training will take just a few days to complete.

bricklaying