Is SSSTS an NVQ?
In the construction industry, there are a litany of qualifications available, all catering to different roles, and different levels of experience. Among these are the Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS), and National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs). While both can be pivotal for career advancement, it’s important to understand that they’re entirely different qualifications, both serving their own distinct purpose. Let’s look at the differences between the SSSTS, and NVQs.
Understanding SSSTS
The SSSTS is a two-day training course accredited by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). It’s tailored to professionals in supervisory roles on construction sites. The course primarily focuses on:
- Health and Safety Regulations: Ensuring supervisors are well-versed in current laws and practices
- Risk Assessment and Management: Teaching supervisors to identify potential hazards and implement preventive measures
- Effective Communication: Emphasising the importance of conveying safety protocols to the entire workforce
Upon completion, participants will receive a certificate that remains valid for five years, signifying their ability to oversee site operations safely.
Understanding NVQs
NVQs are competence-based qualifications that assess an individual’s ability to perform specific tasks within their job role. In construction, NVQs range from Level 2 (operative level) to Level 7 (senior management). Unlike SSSTS, NVQs don’t involve any traditional classroom training, but instead require candidates to demonstrate their skills and knowledge through:
- On-the-Job Assessments: Evaluators remotely observe candidates performing their duties
- Online Portfolio Development: Candidates compile evidence of their competencies, such as work samples and testimonials
- Professional Discussions: Engaging in dialogues with assessors to validate understanding and experience
Achieving an NVQ is typically a prerequisite for obtaining specific Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) cards, which are essential for site access and, in many cases, employment.
Key Differences Between SSSTS and NVQs
While both qualifications are integral to the construction sector, their differences are notable:
- Purpose: The Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme is a short-term course aimed at imparting safety knowledge to supervisors, whereas NVQs assess and certify an individual’s competence in their specific role over a more extended period
- Duration and Structure: SSSTS is completed over two days and has a focus on theoretical knowledge, while NVQ’s assessment process is a lot more hands-on and the candidate can take as long as they need to obtain the qualification (with CST Training this can be as little as 8-12 weeks)
- Outcome: SSSTS results in a certificate of attendance and understanding, whereas NVQs culminate in a formal qualification that can lead to advanced CSCS cards, and further career progression
Conclusion: Is SSSTS an NVQ?
While both SSSTS and NVQs are valuable, they are far from interchangeable. SSSTS provides foundational health and safety training for site supervisors, ensuring they can effectively oversee daily operations. In contrast, NVQs offer a comprehensive assessment of a professional’s competence in their specific role, often serving as a gateway to higher qualifications and certifications within the construction industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SSSTS an NVQ?
The SSSTS is not an NVQ. The Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme is a two-day course providing health and safety training for site supervisors, while NVQs are a comprehensive assessment of a worker’s specific trade.
If you still have any questions regarding the course, then do not hesitate to get in touch.
Phone – 020 3488 4472
