Cold Formed Steel Frame (SFS) NVQ Requirements
This qualification is for site operatives who work with cold-formed steel framing systems (SFS) on construction projects.
It suits you if you regularly:
- Assemble SFS components on external walls, infill panels, or internal structures
- Work from drawings and specifications to prepare and fix steel sections
- Use power tools and fixings designed for SFS installation
You must show you can carry out the work safely, accurately, and in line with manufacturer requirements:
-
•
Follow site safety rules, RAMS, and SFS installation procedures
-
•
Read and interpret drawings, manufacturer details, and setting-out information
-
•
Prepare work areas, materials, and tools for SFS assembly
-
•
Identify and select correct SFS components, fixings, and accessories
-
•
Measure, mark out, and cut sections accurately
-
•
Set out wall positions, reference lines, and fixing points
-
•
Install SFS studs, tracks, headers, and associated components
-
•
Fix components securely using approved methods, tools, and fixings
-
•
Ensure plumb, level, alignment, and correct spacing of members
-
•
Install bracing, strengthening, and fire-stopping components (where required)
-
•
Check tolerance, stability, and compliance with specifications
-
•
Maintain safe use of power tools (impact drivers, drills, chop saws, etc.)
-
•
Keep work areas tidy and dispose of waste correctly
-
•
Report problems or defects in materials or installation
Your evidence must come from your real site work (from current or previous projects). Suitable evidence includes:
- Photos and short video diaries showing you carrying out daily tasks
- Records of job instructions or any drawings you followed
- Site diaries or job sheets confirming the tasks you completed
- Witness testimonies from supervisors or site managers
- Toolbox talks, risk assessments, or method statements from your work
- Assessor observations during live installations
To learn more about the modules that make up this qualification, refer to the 'Qual Structure' section.
Construction supervisors, chargehand or foreman, supervising their own trade activities while also working hands-on with tools may want to consider the
NVQ Level 3 Construction Supervisor qualification.
NVQ Level 2 Cold Formed Steel Frame Qualification Structure
To achieve this qualification, you must complete all 4 mandatory units.
NVQ Level 2 Cold Formed Steel Frame 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 |
| Preparing and assembling cold formed steel frames in the Workplace |
2 |
Cold Formed Steel Frame 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 SFS installer 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 Cold Formed Steel Frame Fast Track
A standard NVQ Level 2 Cold-Formed Steel Frame 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.
Funded Qualification
