Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Formwork

Level 2 Formwork NVQ – Course Overview

The Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Formwork is designed for people working with concrete formwork, timber formwork, and proprietary shuttering systems on construction sites.

This qualification recognises your existing skills in assembling, installing, maintaining and striking formwork. Whether you’re already working as a formworker or shuttering carpenter, this NVQ proves you can carry out the job safely and to industry standards.

Once completed, you’ll be eligible to apply for the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card, showing employers you’re fully qualified and competent on site.

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  • Work-based course with no classroom attendance required.
  • Covers both timber and proprietary concrete formwork systems.
  • Suitable for shuttering carpenters, formwork erectors and strikers.
  • Dedicated assessor to guide you through the qualification.
  • Leads to the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card once complete.

This qualification is aimed at:

  • Formworkers already working on live construction sites
  • Shuttering carpenters involved in erecting and striking formwork
  • Operatives working with wooden shuttering, shuttered concrete, or temporary works
  • Employers wanting to upskill their workforce and demonstrate compliance
  • You should already be confidently carrying out formwork tasks and able to provide workplace evidence.

Mandatory Core Units

  • Conforming to General Health, Safety and Welfare in the Workplace
  • Conforming to Productive Working Practices
  • Moving, Handling and Storing Resources

Pathway 1 – Formwork Carpenter

  • Fabricating and maintaining timber and proprietary formwork systems
  • Erecting and striking timber and proprietary formwork

Pathway 2 – Formwork Erector and Striker

  • Erecting and striking timber and proprietary formwork
  • Maintaining timber and proprietary formwork systems

All evidence must be gathered from real work activities to show consistent, safe and competent performance.

You must already be working in formwork, shuttering carpentry, or concrete support roles. This ensures you can gather real on-site evidence.

If you are brand new to construction, you may start with the Green CSCS Labourer Card.

  • 6–12 months on average
  • No classroom learning — your assessor visits you on site
  • Flexible around your working hours
  • Evidence collected from real jobs, tasks and projects

Assessment is based on your real work, not exams. Evidence may include:

  • On-site observations

    • Photographs and videos

  • Witness testimonies
  • Work records, timesheets, delivery notes, RAMS, toolbox talks
  • Knowledge questions (written or verbal)

Your assessor will help you gather everything you need to complete the qualification confidently.

This qualification is accredited by:

  • GQA Qualifications – recognised awarding body for construction
  • Ofqual – the government regulator for qualifications
  • NOCN Group – national construction skills organisation
  • CITB – supports industry standards and grant funding

On completion, you can apply for the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card.

If you need help applying, here’s a simple guide: How to Apply for a CSCS Card

Depending on your situation, funding support may be available:

Depending on your situation, funding support may be available:

  • Warm Homes Skills Programme – supports training in construction and retrofit trades.
  • Local Authority Skills Funds – regional councils may offer funding for Level 2 construction NVQs through the Adult Skills Fund.
  • CITB Grants – CITB-registered employers can often claim up to £600 after completion.
  • Employer Sponsorship – many construction companies support NVQ training as part of their competence and safety programmes.

Completing this Level 2 NVQ can lead to roles such as:

  • Formwork Carpenter
  • Shuttering Carpenter
  • Formwork Erector / Striker
  • Concrete Formwork Operative

You can also progress to higher qualifications with Train 4 Growth, including:

  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Wood Occupations
    This builds on your practical site experience and develops more advanced carpentry skills, including working with bespoke components and a wider range of timber structures. Completing this NVQ also allows you to apply for the Gold CSCS Skilled Worker Card.
  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Cladding Occupations
    A useful progression if you want to move into external envelope work or specialist façade installation. It expands on the knowledge gained in formwork and opens opportunities in cladding and building exteriors.
  • Level 4 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Supervision
    Ideal for operatives wanting to step up into supervisory roles, such as shuttering foreman, concrete gang leader or section supervisor. Completing this NVQ allows you to apply for the Gold CSCS Supervisory Card and is a recognised step towards construction management.

Ready to get qualified as a shuttering carpenter or concrete formworker?

Call 0161 706 1401 or send us a message online — we’ll help you or your team complete the NVQ and stay site-ready.