Construction and Civil Engineering Operations - General Construction
Aimed at groundworkers, this qualification validates skills in drainage, concreting, kerb laying, and excavation, ensuring competence in civil engineering tasks aligned with industry standards.

The Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Construction Operations and Civil Engineering is a work-based qualification specifically aimed at individuals carrying out general construction operations work; these individuals are also known as groundworkers. It provides formal recognition of their skills, knowledge, and competence in performing a variety of tasks within the groundworks and civil engineering sector, ensuring work meets industry standards.
Candidates must demonstrate their ability to safely and efficiently carry out tasks such as modular pavement laying, laying kerbs and channels, general building work, drainage, concreting, excavation, and reinstatement.
Note: This is an NVQ qualification. If you require a CSCS card as well, please contact us to discuss the process and any additional charges.There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification. It can be undertaken without any previous training or qualifications in this subject area. However, candidates must be employed in a relevant role in order to gather the necessary workplace evidence and demonstrate their competency. Candidates must also have a minimum of two years’ experience to achieve this qualification.
Crystal&Co will carry out an initial assessment activity with each candidate to ensure that this is the appropriate qualification for them before enrolling them onto the programme. This will help identify any gaps and assist in planning the assessment.To achieve this qualification, you must demonstrate your competency, knowledge, and understanding by completing each unit. The assessment process is based on work-based evidence and knowledge tasks—there are no exams.
Assessment Methods:
Candidates will be assessed using a combination of the following methods:
Work-Based Evidence Submission – Providing relevant workplace documents to support competency.
Direct Observations – An assessor will observe the candidate performing tasks in the workplace.
Professional Discussions (if needed) – A structured conversation with an assessor to confirm knowledge and competency.
Witness Testimonies – Statements from supervisors or managers verifying the candidate’s skills.
Knowledge-Based Tasks – Answering set questions via an online portal or written submissions.
Assessment Process:
Initial Assessment & Induction – After enrolment, you will undergo an initial assessment to determine your experience and readiness for the qualification. You will also complete an induction that explains the assessment requirements, process, and expectations.
Assessment Plan – An individual assessment plan will be created, outlining the units to be covered and the types of evidence required. The plan helps you track progress and ensures you understand what needs to be completed.
E-Portfolio Access – You will receive login details for our online platform, where you can access your assessment 24/7.
Assessor Support – Each candidate is assigned a dedicated assessor who provides continuous guidance and support. Our assessors are available via telephone, email, or the portal seven days a week.
Duration & Flexibility – The qualification can be completed within one to three months, depending on individual circumstances. Candidates have 12 months of full access and support.
Evidence Requirements:
Assessment is workplace-based, requiring a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate competency. Accepted evidence includes:
Observations – Direct assessments of your work performance.
Witness Testimonies – Statements from supervisors or managers confirming your competency.
Professional Discussions (if needed) – Conversations with your assessor to confirm your knowledge.
Supporting Documents (e.g., Risk Assessments, Method Statements, Daily Briefings, Toolbox Talks, Drawings) – Your assessor will provide you with a guidance document outlining the required evidence.
Evidence collected within the past two years can be submitted, allowing candidates to utilize existing documentation without unnecessary repetition. Your assessor will review your submitted evidence and provide feedback to ensure it meets the required standards.To achieve this qualification, candidates must successfully complete both mandatory units, select at least one unit from Optional Group B, and choose one pathway based on their job role.
Mandatory Units (Both units must be completed):
Conforming to General Health, Safety and Welfare in the Workplace
Conforming to Productive Working Practices in the Workplace
Group B Optional Units (Choose at least one unit):
Establishing Work Area Protection and Safety in the Workplace
Segregating the Area for Highways Works in the Workplace
Pathway C – Modular Pavement Construction (Both units must be completed):
Laying Modular Pavement in the Workplace
Setting Out Secondary Dimensional Work Control in the Workplace
Pathway D – Laying Kerbs and Channels (Both units must be completed):
Laying Kerbs and Channels in the Workplace
Setting Out Secondary Dimensional Work Control in the Workplace
Pathway E – General Building Operations (All three units must be completed):
Laying Modular Pavement in the Workplace
Laying Kerbs and Channels in the Workplace
Setting Out Secondary Dimensional Work Control in the Workplace
Pathway F – Drainage Construction (Both units must be completed):
Installing Drainage in the Workplace
Setting Out Secondary Dimensional Work Control in the Workplace
Pathway G – Structural Concreting (Both units must be completed):
Pouring Concrete to Form Structures in the Workplace
Erecting and Striking Proprietary Formwork in the Workplace
Pathway H – Non-Structural Concreting (Both units must be completed):
Placing and Finishing Non-Specialist Concrete in the Workplace
Moving, Handling and Storing Resources in the Workplace
Pathway I – General Construction:
Mandatory Unit (must be completed):
Moving, Handling and Storing Resources in the Workplace
Optional Units (must choose one):
Placing and Finishing Non-Specialist Concrete in the Workplace
Installing Drainage in the Workplace
Pathway J – Excavation and Reinstatement:
Mandatory Units (both must be completed):
Locating and Protecting Utilities Apparatus and Sub-Structures in the Workplace
Excavating Holes and Trenches – Manual Digging in the Workplace
Optional Units (must choose one):
Reinstating Ground Condition in the Workplace
Reinstating Excavation and Highway Surfaces in the WorkplaceOnce all units are completed, your assigned assessor will review your portfolio and provide feedback.
After addressing the feedback, your portfolio will be submitted to one of our Internal Quality Assurers (IQA) for final review.
Upon approval, you will be awarded the Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Construction Operations and Civil Engineering.
