Multi-Trade Level 2 NVQ: How Long Does it Take?
Versatility is key in the construction sector. Employers and contractors value professionals who have a range of skills, outside of just one particular trade. This is especially true for smaller companies, and for maintenance work. If you’ve been working in more than one trade and you’d like to obtain a formal qualification to validate your experience, an NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) is your best option. But if you’re in multiple trades, which trade should you choose for your NVQ? Luckily, you don’t have to choose- instead, you can take a Multi-Trade Level 2 NVQ.
But how long does this NVQ take to complete?
What is a Multi-Trade Qualification and Who is it For?
A multi-trade qualification is designed for construction workers who routinely carry out tasks across more than one trade. Instead of specialising solely in bricklaying, carpentry, or plastering, you might perform a combination of basic skills from each. So, this qualification is ideal for:
- Maintenance Operatives: Those working in facilities management, housing associations, or property maintenance who need to address a variety of repair and upkeep tasks.
- General Builders/Handypersons: Individuals involved in smaller residential projects where a single worker might cover multiple aspects of the build or renovation.
- Experienced Labourers: Those who have gained diverse on-site experience, and want to formalise their broader skillset.
What’s Covered in the Multi-Trade Level 2 NVQ?
The specific units within a Level 2 can vary slightly depending on the awarding body and chosen pathway, but they generally cover core competencies relevant to various construction activities. Common areas can include:
- Health and Safety: Conforming to general health, safety, and welfare in the workplace.
- Productive Working: Conforming to productive working practices in the workplace.
- Moving Resources: Moving, handling, and storing resources.
- Basic Carpentry: Performing basic carpentry tasks (e.g., erecting timber frames, installing skirting boards).
- Basic Brickwork: Carrying out basic bricklaying activities (e.g., building half-brick walls, repairing brickwork).
- Basic Plastering/Rendering: Applying render, patching plaster, or finishing surfaces.
- Basic Painting & Decorating: Preparing surfaces and applying paint or other finishes.
- Drainage: Installing or maintaining drainage systems.
- Concreting: Mixing and laying concrete.
The qualification focuses on demonstrating competence in a selection of these areas, proving versatility on-site.
Typical Duration for Completing the Multi-Trade Level 2 NVQ
Given its competency-based nature, there’s no fixed timetable for the NVQ. This means you can take as long as you need to complete it, which in some cases could be several months, particularly if you’re in no rush to obtain your qualification. With CST Training, though, you can be finished within just four to eight weeks.
Tips for Finishing Faster
There are a number of ways you can speed up the process of completing your NVQ:
- Choose the Right Provider: Select a reputable NVQ provider with experienced assessors who understand multi-trade roles and offer efficient assessment pathways, including remote options.
- Prepare Your Evidence Proactively: Start collecting photographs, videos, and relevant work documents as soon as you enrol. Think about how your daily tasks demonstrate specific unit criteria.
- Communicate Regularly with Your Assessor: Stay in close contact. Ask questions, seek feedback, and schedule remote observations as soon as you have opportunities to demonstrate specific skills.
Conclusion (Multi-Trade Level 2 NVQ: How Long Does it Take?)
The Level 2 is an invaluable qualification for versatile construction workers, offering formal recognition for a broad range of practical skills. It can be a relatively quick process, often achievable within four to eight weeks if you’re able to put in the time and effort- otherwise you can take as long as you need.
If you still have any questions regarding the NVQ, then do not hesitate to get in touch.
Phone – 020 3488 4472
