Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Sub-structure Work Occupations (Construction)​ – Underpinning Operations (Excavated Underpinning)

Description

About the NVQ

Excavated underpinning is specialist, safety-critical work — setting out and marking positions for the underpinning sequence, excavating, erecting formwork, installing reinforcement, placing and compacting concrete, and repairing sub-structure once the sequence is complete. The Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Sub-structure Work Occupations (Underpinning Operations – Excavated Underpinning) gives experienced operatives a nationally recognised way to have that competence formally assessed.

If you’re already doing this work, it turns your day-to-day site experience into formal, recognised proof of your competence — and supports your application for a Skilled Worker CSCS Card.

Qualification Details

• Awarding Body: ProQual
• Qualification Title: ProQual Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Sub-structure Work Occupations (Construction) – Underpinning Operations (Excavated Underpinning)
• Qualification Number: 603/1144/7
• Level: 2

Who Is This NVQ For?

This Level 2 NVQ is built for people already working in excavated underpinning, who want that experience formally recognised.

It’s particularly well suited to:

• Operatives setting out and marking positions for the underpinning sequence
• Operatives excavating for underpinning, or excavating and temporarily supporting pits and trenches
• Operatives erecting underpinning formwork, installing reinforcement steel, or installing drypacking
• Operatives repairing sub-structure, placing and compacting concrete, or installing and removing temporary works
• Contractors bidding for contracts that require certified, competent underpinning operatives

We deliver this NVQ nationwide, on your own site, working around your existing job and workload so you don’t need to travel or take time off to complete it.

Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this construction NVQ.

All candidates complete an initial skills assessment to identify any knowledge gaps and plan the right assessment route for their role and experience.

Qualification Structure

To achieve the ProQual Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Sub-structure Work Occupations – Underpinning Operations (Excavated Underpinning), candidates must complete:

Mandatory Units

• Conforming to general health, safety and welfare in the workplace
• Conforming to productive working practices in the workplace
• Moving, handling and storing resources in the workplace
• Setting out and marking positions for underpinning sequence in the workplace

Optional Units – Group A (choose one)

• Excavating for underpinning in the workplace
• Excavating and providing temporary support to pits and trenches in the workplace

Optional Units – Group B (choose four)

• Erecting and striking underpinning formwork in the workplace
• Installing reinforcement steel for underpinning in the workplace
• Installing drypacking in the workplace
• Repairing sub-structure after underpinning in the workplace
• Placing and compacting concrete in the workplace
• Installing, constructing, maintaining, dismantling and removing temporary works in the workplace

How You’re Assessed

This is a workplace-based NVQ, meaning your everyday work activities provide the evidence required to demonstrate competence.

Assessment methods may include:

• Assessor observations
• Professional discussions
• Witness testimonies
• Work products and site records
• Assignments and reports
• Oral and written questioning
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Our assessors work around your existing responsibilities, making the process flexible and straightforward while minimising disruption to your workload.

Certification

Upon successful completion, candidates will receive:

• A ProQual certificate for Level 2 in Sub-structure Work Occupations (Construction) – Underpinning Operations (Excavated Underpinning)

CITB Grant Funding

CITB-registered employers may be eligible to claim a £600 Short Qualification Grant upon successful completion of this NVQ.

We handle the grant application on your behalf, start to finish, so there’s no extra admin for you or your team. If you’re not sure whether your business qualifies, our team can check your eligibility for you — just ask.

What CSCS Card Can I Get With This NVQ?

Once you have:

• Completed this Level 2 qualification, and
• Passed the CITB Operatives Health, Safety and Environment Test (within the last two years)

…you can apply for the Skilled Worker (Blue) CSCS Card — widely recognised across the construction industry as proof of your competence.

Next Steps

Already working in excavated underpinning and want formal recognition for it? Get in touch and we’ll confirm this is the right route for your role, and talk through the evidence your day-to-day work is already generating.

NVQ PDF Download

Download the full information PDF for the Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Sub-structure Work Occupations (Underpinning Operations – Excavated Underpinning pathway).

Download NVQ PDF