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What's Included?
The benefits and advantages of the service you receive.
Don’t break the bank: Manageable, affordable, interest-free payment plans starting from only £151.00/m. Customise your payment plan, up to 6 months.
[Instant approval, No credit checks]
No online portfolio nightmare: We understand you don’t want the extra job of first learning a new platform, then uploading your data, only to find out weeks later that that there is a problem and you have to do it again.
[Communicate with a real person instead]
Respecting the Non-Academic Mind: We speak in simple language and cut academic terminology. We relate all questions to your industry experience, ensuring relevance and clarity.
The NVQ Level 2 Carpentry offers various pathways to suit your specific work and experience in the carpentry trade.
At a glance
Qualification Key Facts
Industry-recognised qualification
Yes, UK and globally
Our coverage
England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Assessment type
Work-based & distance assessment
Prior experience
Required
Classroom attendance
No
Fast Track
Yes, available
Typical Completion
4-6 weeks (adjust to your pace)
Remote Assessments
Teams & Zoom options available
Dedicated assessor
Yes, with a direct contact number
Guidance & support
Yes, we're here to help
Planning & preparation
Guidance provided
CITB grant claimable
Yes, up to £600
Exams
No
Your qualification pathway will depend on the particular type of carpentry work you are currently engaged in: Site Carpentry, Architectural Joinery, Structural Post and Beam Carpentry, among others. For the complete list, please scroll down.
As a practical example, let's consider the most popular pathway - Site Carpentry. To achieve this qualification, you must be able to meet the following performance criteria:
1st Fix Components - install any 3 of the following
•
frames (door and/or window)
•
linings (door and/or hatch)
•
floor joist coverings (or flat roof decking)
•
partitions
•
staircases
•
roof verge and eaves finishings
2nd Fix Components - install any 5 of the following
Cutting Machines - set up and use any 3 of the following
•
saw (three from the following: circular, chop, mitre, bench, jig, recip, multi-tool)
•
drill
•
planer
•
biscuit jointer
•
disc cutter
•
morticer
Shaping Machines - set up and use any 2 of the following
•
thicknesser
•
planer
•
sander (orbital, belt, disc)
•
router
•
laminate trimmer
Or... If your work doesn't involve 1st fix jobs, you can choose the following unit instead of the 1st Fix Components.
Non-structural Components - maintain/repair any 4 of the following
•
frames
•
mouldings
•
doors
•
windows (including replacement glazing)
•
door and/or window ironmongery
•
verge and/or eaves
•
sash cords
During the carpentry NVQ assessment, you will be required to provide evidence for the assessment criteria listed above. Any photos or videos from your previous site carpentry projects could be used for your current assessment portfolio.
The evidence we collect from you must demonstrate your skills and ability to perform quality carpentry work in line with site specifications and safety standards. We emphasise H&S aspects, such as the correct use of PPE and safety gear, to ensure you can carry out your work in a safe manner.
To demonstrate your competence, we will assess your practical skills along with your overall knowledge of materials and tools that you use daily, ensuring you can identify the correct methods and sequence of work related to the site carpentry trade.
There are several available pathways for this qualification:
Site Carpentry
Architectural Joinery
Structural Post and Beam Carpentry
Light Structural Timber Framing
Timber Frame Erection
Timber Decks and Cladding
Heritage Site Carpentry
Heritage Architectural Joinery
Heritage Structural Post and Beam Carpentry
Pre-assembled Roof Structure Installer
For a full breakdown of the units included in the qualification, check out the 'Qual Structure' section.
If you consider yourself a more advanced carpenter, then you might want to pursue the NVQ Level 3 Carpentry and Joinery qualification.
NVQ Level 2 Carpentry Qualification Structure
To achieve the NVQ Level 2 Carpentry, you must complete 6 units. For the Site Carpentry pathway, you must complete 3 mandatory units and choose at least 3 optional units that match the work you do.
Below is the list of mandatory and optional units for the Site Carpentry pathway. Your assessor will confirm which optional units fit your job role so the evidence you provide is relevant.
NVQ Level 2 Carpentry Mandatory 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
NVQ 2 Carpentry Optional Units (Site Carpentry Pathway)
Unit Title
Level
Installing first fixing components in the workplace
2
Installing second fixing components in the workplace
2
Maintaining non-structural carpentry work in the workplace
2
Setting up and using transportable cutting and shaping machines in the workplace
2
Erecting structural carcassing components in the workplace
2
Installing Fire Resisting Timber Door Assemblies and Doorsets in the Workplace
2
Carpentry 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 carpenter into 5 steps.
Step 1Initial 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 2Evidence 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 3On-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 4Knowledge 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 5Final 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 Carpentry Fast Track
A standard NVQ Level 2 Carpentry 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.
Our centre has been approved to deliver this qualification through CITB Employer Networks funding.
Companies registered with CITB may benefit from funding for this qualification. Find out how
Booking Form
Customise Your Plan.
Assessment for NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Carpentry
£755 +VAT
Or from as little as £151.00 p/m
Extra Packages
(optional, if you need any)
(+ £50)
1-Day Registration
If you're having difficulties securing a job or getting on site without the specialist CSCS card, we can register you for the relevant NVQ qualification within 1 work day, which will enable you to apply for the Experienced Worker (Red) CSCS card so that you can gain access to the site and commence your work as soon as possible. To learn more about the Experienced Worker card, please follow the link below.
* to apply for a temporary CSCS card, you must have a valid H&S test, passed within the last two years
(+ £200)
No Homework
Free up your time for more important things in your life! This package might save you days or even weeks of evening work filling out the paperwork. During the assessment, your assessor will dedicate additional time for professional discussions about your work where you will answer clear and simple questions tailored to your industry and job role. After all, this feels like a natural conversation about your work. With this option, your assessor will do significant legwork for you - we will then use your verbal responses to fill out all the answers in the paperwork on your behalf.
* the professional discussions (interviews) are usually audio or video recorded
(+ £200)
Fast Track
Select this option to speed up the process and pass your assessment within 2-4 weeks. You'll receive priority status with an enhanced focus on your assessment, and your assessor will work out a plan for speedy completion, focusing on achieving your goal within the set timeframe. When procrastination creeps in, expect a friendly phone call from your assessor who will help you get back on your progress track.
* you must be motivated and willing to cooperate with your assessor
Price per candidate
£755
Candidates
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1
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Max 6 months
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Total
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£755
£151
£906
-
Payment period (months)
-
6
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(Can’t proceed)
Sorry, this assessment is not suitable for beginners. We work only with experienced workers and professionals who know their job and require official recognition of their skills in the industry.
Knowledge and prior experience are mandatory.
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Assessment for NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Carpentry
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By paying, you authorise Up Level Ltd to charge your card and arrange an NVQ assessment.
Up Level Training Centre is officially registered and accredited by several nationally recognised organisations, including the National Specialist Accredited Centre (NSAC) – CITB Division, Pearson (Edexcel), ProQual Awarding Body, and CITB Employer Networks. We operate as an NVQ assessment and training centre for construction-related qualifications.
You can verify our accreditations independently by contacting any of these organizations:
CITB, National Specialist Accredited Centre (NSAC)
Support Services
Building 2
Bircham Newton
Kings Lynn
Norfolk, PE31 6RH
Tel: 0300 456 6447
Email: enquiry.NSAC@citb.co.uk
Web: https://www.citb.co.uk/standards-and-delivering-training/national-specialist-accredited-centre-nsac/
ProQual House
Unit 1, Innovation Drive
Newport, Brough
HU15 2GX
Tel: + 44 (0) 1430 423822
Email: enquiries@proqualab.com
Web: https://www.proqualab.com/contact-us/
Is this assessment suitable for beginners?
No, this is not a traditional training or college course. This is an NVQ assessment for experienced workers and professionals who know their job very well and require official recognition of their skills in the industry. Knowledge and prior experience is mandatory.
Do I need to take the CSCS H&S test to apply for a temporary Experienced Worker (red) CSCS card?
Yes, to apply for a temporary Experienced Worker (red) CSCS card, you must have a valid H&S test that was completed within the last two years. You can find more information about this on the following website: https://www.cscs.uk.com/card-type/experienced-worker/
Do I need to take the CSCS H&S test once I have completed the NVQ assessment?
Yes, to apply for a CSCS card, you must have a valid H&S touch screen test, passed within the last two years. You can find more information about this on the following website: https://www.cscs.uk.com/about/faqs/?faq_category=983
Can I skip levels and obtain a higher NVQ qualification?
Yes, it is possible to skip levels and obtain a higher NVQ qualification, as long as you can provide evidence of your competence in your field of expertise.
How soon can I apply for a CSCS card?
The timeframe for the NVQ assessment may vary depending on your employment status and your ability to provide evidence of your work practice. Typically, you will discuss all aspects of your circumstances with your assessor before starting the course to confirm a potential completion date. Once you agree on a realistic and achievable completion date, the assessment can begin.
Additionally, on our website's booking form, you have the option to select the Fast Track NVQ assessment package for a quicker assessment process. For more information, please check out the booking form options.
Can I register for the NVQ course without a National Insurance number?
Yes, you can register for the NVQ assessment without a National Insurance number.
When can I expect to receive my NVQ Diploma/Certificate?
Once your assessment is completed and your portfolio is submitted to the awarding body for achievement, the typical waiting period is up to 15 working days. However, this duration may vary depending on the awarding body's workload and your individual case.
Upon receipt of the full payment for the assessment services provided to you, our sales department will release your certificate.
Can I still do the NVQ if I'm dyslexic or feel that I have a non-academic mind?
Yes. Having dyslexia or a non-academic mind does not affect your ability to complete an NVQ. Our assessors take your individual situation into account and will create an assessment plan that suits your needs. Your grammar ability is not a significant factor in the assessment process.
* to apply for a CSCS card, you must have a valid H&S test, passed within the last two years
Is prior experience required for this qualification?
Yes — prior experience is mandatory. The NVQ in NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Carpentry is a competence-based qualification that assesses your existing skills and knowledge in the field.
Do you offer courses for beginners?
No – we don't run workshops or training courses. Our NVQ qualifications are designed for experienced professionals who are already working in the industry. The assessment is based on your existing skills and evidence gathered from your work on site.
Do I need any prior qualifications to be eligible for this assessment?
No – you don't need any prior qualifications to be eligible. However, you must have practical experience and be actively working in the industry.
What are the requirements?
You can self-assess your eligibility before booking this assessment. Check requirements
Funded Qualification
