Peterlee Campus
Course overview
Already working in construction but want to take the next step in your career?
This bootcamp is designed specifically for labourers and general operatives already in the industry who are looking to upskill and gain a nationally recognised NVQ Level 2 qualification.
Delivered by expert tutors at East Durham College and through on-site assessment in your workplace, this flexible programme recognises your existing experience and helps you formalise your skills, while opening up opportunities for promotion, pay increases, and access to a CSCS Card.
You’ll receive practical training in our industry-standard workshops and benefit from targeted career development support to help you move forward in the construction industry.
Topics
• Preparing and maintaining a safe working area
• Setting out and assisting with groundworks and masonry tasks
• Using hand and power tools safely and effectively
• Moving, handling, and storing materials correctly
• Working safely with hazardous substances and at height
• Health and safety legislation and site standards
• Communicating effectively with colleagues and supervisors
Job opportunities after this course
On completion, you’ll be able to:
• Apply for skilled roles on site with a recognised qualification
• Progress into more specialist trades or supervisory roles
• Access advanced training or trade-specific NVQs
Entry requirements
You must:
• Be aged 19 or over
• Be currently employed (or have recent experience) as a general operative or labourer
• Be eligible to live and work in the UK
• Have a willingness to complete training and assessment
For the latest qualifications and grades required by course type/level, please follow this link to check the most up-to-date entry criteria for direct entry and internal progression at the college.
How is this course assessed?
The course is assessed through:
On-Site Observations:
• Assessors visit your workplace to observe you completing relevant construction tasks.
• Observations are planned around your working hours and real site activities.
Portfolio of Evidence:
• You’ll collect photos, supervisor testimonies, job records, and reflective accounts.
• Evidence is used to demonstrate your competence against NVQ standards.
Professional Discussions & Reviews:
• One-to-one discussions with your assessor to explain your knowledge and decision-making.
• Helps confirm understanding of tasks, processes, and health & safety practices.
When does the course start?
Cohort 1: 2nd June 2025 till 12th July 2025
Cohort 2: 15th September 2025 till 28th November 2025
Length of course
6 weeks
Fees & Funding
Please read our Course Fees & Funding page.
How to apply
To apply online for this course, please click on the 'Apply' button at the top/bottom of this page.
Alternatively, if you need assistance with your application or you would like to apply over the phone or using a paper-based application form, please call Student Services on 0191 743 0149.
If you're not quite ready to apply for this course and would like some more information or to speak to a member of staff then please click on the 'Enquire' button at the top/bottom of this page.
