Boarding/Tacking NVQ Requirements
The NVQ Level 2 Boarding and Tacking qualification is for experienced dryliner boarders, who can demonstrate their skills and carry out drylining boarding tasks in line with construction site rules and guidelines.
Regardless if you work in the private or industrial sector, if your work involves tacking (i.e. fixing) boards to either wood or metal studwork, this qualification is suitable for you.
It is essential to have knowledge about basic Health and Safety practices. You must be able to carry out your work safely according to your Risk Assessment and to a good standard, following the project specification requirements.
As a dry liner boarder, you must be able to do the following:
You'll need to demonstrate a real on-site evidence (from current or previous projects) that shows the work you normally complete. A typical evidence may include:
- Short video diaries of you fixing boards (if allowed on site).
- Photos or videos of completed work.
- Drawings or specifications you followed.
- Material delivery notes showing the boards.
- Toolbox talks or inductions you attended.
- Risk assessments or method statements you followed.
- Witness statements from supervisors or managers confirming your competence.
To learn more about the modules that make up this qualification, refer to the 'Qual Structure' section.
NVQ Level 2 Boarding / Tacking Qualification Structure
The NVQ Level 2 Boarding / Tacking is part of the Interior Systems qualification. The official title for this qual is - NVQ Level 2 Certificate in Interior Systems (Construction) - Dry Lining Boarder.
This qualification is straightforward, and it doesn’t offer any optional units.
You must complete 4 units to achieve this qualification.
NVQ Level 2 Boarding / Tacking Units
| Unit Title |
Level |
| Conforming to General Health, Safety and Welfare in the Workplace |
1 |
| Conforming to Productive Working Practices in the Workplace |
2 |
| Moving, Handling and Storing Resources in the Workplace |
2 |
| Installing Plasterboard Linings in the Workplace |
2 |
Boarding/Tacking NVQ Assessment Process
Although the assessment process can vary depending on the package you selected at the time of your booking (for options, see the booking form), we can outline the typical steps you can expect during your assessment. However, given the dynamic nature of the industry, we always aim to adapt the process to suit your individual situation.
For clarity, let’s break down the typical assessment process for a boarder/tacker into 5 steps.
Step 1 Initial Sign-Up
You complete a short enrolment form and speak with your assessor about your experience, job role, and upcoming work plans. Together, you agree on the next steps and discuss potential dates for a site visit (if possible).
Step 2 Evidence Collection
You provide examples of your day-to-day work. This may include photos, videos, job sheets, method statements, or short video diaries of how you carry out certain tasks. Your assessor guides you on exactly what is needed, so you only submit relevant evidence (typically via WhatsApp, emails, etc.).
Step 3 On-Site Observation
If applicable, your assessor visits your site to observe you carrying out your normal work. There are no tests or exams — just your usual tasks. In some cases, a remote observation can be arranged via Zoom. The observation method is always agreed with you in advance.
Step 4 Knowledge Questions / Professional Discussion
Depending on your chosen package (for details see booking form):
- Standard assessment: We email you the Q&A sheets covering all knowledge criteria. You complete them in your own time and return them to your assessor.
- No Homework package: We conduct an on-site professional discussion. You simply explain how you do your job while your assessor asks relevant questions. No written work is required.
Step 5 Final Evidence Check & Certification
If any evidence is missing, we contact you and help gather what is needed to ensure all criteria are covered. Once everything is complete, we finalise your portfolio and claim your certificate from the awarding organisation.
NVQ Level 2 Boarding / Tacking Fast Track
A standard NVQ Level 2 Boarding / Tacking assessment usually takes 4–6 weeks, but the actual turnaround depends on how quickly we can gather and confirm all required evidence. The sooner you provide the evidence, the sooner we can complete the assessment. Once everything is received, there is nothing stopping us from finishing immediately. In practice, the overall duration depends on your motivation and how quickly you can supply the evidence.
Before starting, you will review your work situation with your assessor and agree on a realistic completion date.
Fast Track Option
With the Fast Track service, you can complete the NVQ in 2–4 weeks. To achieve this timeframe, you must be motivated and ready to work closely with your assessor. Your assessor will prioritise your assessment, plan the quickest route to completion, and focus on meeting the agreed targets, provided the required evidence is supplied promptly.
To choose Fast Track, select the option on the booking form.