The NVQ Level 7 Diploma in Construction Senior Management is a qualification for professionals in the construction industry. It is aimed at those with aspirations to work in senior managerial roles, or for those who are already there. The qualification is designed to equip construction professionals with knowledge and skills for managing large, complex construction projects, covering both operational and strategic aspects.
In this post, we break down the qualification into its key components and answer some commonly asked questions.
What is the NVQ Level 7 Diploma in Construction Senior Management?
This diploma is a work-based qualification aimed at people already employed in the construction industry. Specifically, it is designed for people in senior management, or who want to reach that level.
The certification reflects the skills and knowledge it takes to lead construction projects. Participants will learn to oversee an array of responsibilities, including:
- Project management.
- Health and safety.
- Risk assessment.
- Resource management.
The course is assessed through real work experience, so there is no formal examination. Instead, candidates are assessed on how they perform tasks and meet industry standards whilst working day-to-day.
Who is the NVQ Level 7 Diploma in Construction Senior Management Designed For?
This qualification is suitable for professionals who already work in senior managerial roles in constructions, or who are aspiring to move into that type of role. Common candidates include:
- Construction project managers.
- Operations directors.
- Construction directors.
- Experienced site managers.
- Senior construction managers.
- Contract managers.
The NVQ Level 7 can be a good fit for anyone responsible for planning and controlling operations on construction sites. If you oversee teams, manage budgets, and ensure projects meet health, safety and environment standards, it could be for you.
What Does the NVQ Level 7 Diploma in Construction Senior Management Involve?
The certification is usually assessed through evidence gathering and observations of work. Participants put together a portfolio that demonstrates their competence in senior management duties. This should include documents like project plans, risk assessments, meeting notes, and records of strategic decisions made.
Here are some key areas the qualification covers:
- Management and control of project outcomes: Focus on your ability to plan and deliver construction projects within a set timescale, budget, and quality standard.
- Health and safety management: You will learn to ensure construction sites meet the relevant health and safety standards and how you can implement safety procedures.
- Risk management: Develop the skills to identify, analyse and mitigate risks in construction projects.
- Leadership and management: Go over the skills needed to lead teams, delegate tasks and resolve conflicts in a construction setting.
- Financial and resource management: Candidates must understand how to control project finances, manage resources and achieve project goals whilst remaining profitable.
- Sustainability and environmental management: There will be an emphasis on sustainability practices and reducing the environmental impact of construction projects.
Candidates work at their own pace. On average, it takes between 12 and 18 months to complete the qualification, depending on workload and ability to gather evidence
NVQ Level 7 Diploma in Construction Senior Management Modules
There are six mandatory modules each candidate must complete. These are;
- Manage Project Processes in Construction Management (29 credits)
- Manage Teams in Construction Management (16 credits)
- Control Projects in Construction Management (23 credits)
- Plan a Construction Organisation’s Workforce (9 credits)
- Provide Advice, Judgement and Services Ethically in Construction Management (19 credits)
- Develop Self and Others in Construction Management (11 credits)
Candidates can then choose from a list of optional modules to achieve an additional 62 credits. There are;
- Manage Tendering Processes in Construction Management (19 credits)
- Manage the Preparation and Submission of Estimates, Bids and Tenders in Construction Management (16 credits)
- Ensure that Contracts are Prepared, Negotiated and Agreed in Construction Management (18 credits)
- Control Budgets and Contract Payment Entitlement in Construction Management (11 credits)
- Evaluate and Progress the Resolution of Contractual Disputes in Construction Management (18 credits)
- Manage Marketing and Customer Service in Construction Management (13 credits)
- Manage the Handover of a Construction Project (10 credits)
- Prepare and Agree a Project Brief and Outline Programme in Construction Management (24 credits)
- Direct the Management of Design Development and Processes in Construction Management (22 credits)
- Sustainability and Environmental Impact of Developments in Construction Management (20 credits)
- Evaluate Sustainable Resources and Requirements for the Whole Lifecycle of a Construction Project (17 credits)
- Establish Project Procurement Arrangements in Construction Management (18 credits)
- Implement, Monitor and Control Strategic Procurement Systems in Construction Management (12 credits)
What Type of CSCS Card Can You Get An NVQ Level 7?
Once you have successfully completed the NVQ Level 7 Diploma in Construction Senior Management, you will be eligible to apply for a Black CSCS Card. This is also known as the Manager’s Card, and is essential for professionals who work in senior management roles on construction sites. It demonstrates your competence at a strategic level.
A Black CSCS Card is a widely recognised credential within the industry. It is needed for a number of senior positions, providing proof to employers and clients that you are fully competent at managing complex construction projects and leading teams.
You can learn more about CSCS cards in our informative article CSCS Cards - Everything You Need To Know.
NVQ Level 7 Diploma in Construction Management Assessment
There is a flexible assessment process for the NVQ Level 7 Diploma, and it is work-based. You must compile a portfolio of evidence from day-to-day work to demonstrate that you meet the criteria of the qualification. This means:
- Workplace observations: Assessors will visit your site to observe you managing projects, teams and health and safety.
- Portfolio of evidence: As you work, you will gather documents that reflect your management responsibilities, like project plans, safety reports, and budget analyses.
- Professional discussions: You may have conversations with your assessor to explain your role and responsibilities.
The assessment itself is tailored to your specific job role. The focus is on real-life situations where you demonstrate your ability as a senior construction manager. Without exams, you must demonstrate that you can meet the required standards through your performance.
What Are the Benefits of Completing the NVQ Level 7 Diploma in Construction Senior Management?
There are several distinct benefits to completing the qualification for both professionals and their employers:
- Career progression: This will move you towards senior roles like construction director or project director.
- Professional recognition: The ability to obtain the Black CSCS card will enhance your credibility and open doors.
- Flexible learning: As a work-based qualification, you can earn your certification whilst continuing with your full-time job, applying your skills and knowledge directly.
- Increased earning potential: With this qualification, you are more likely to secure a higher-paying position.
- Improved project management skills: With the knowledge from the qualification, you will be better able to manage large projects, control costs and mitigate risks.
Is There Funding Available for the NVQ Level 7 Diploma?
There may be opportunities for CITB-registered employers to apply for grants that will help cover the cost of NVQ qualifications. This includes the NVQ Level 7 Diploma. Many training providers also offer payment plans for spreading the cost of the qualification.
Any company that is interested in providing the NVQ Level 7 to their staff may also be eligible for additional financial support. The CITB’s Training Model funding scheme may be a possible option, depending on your specific circumstances.
If you’d like to discuss what your funding options are for NVQs or CITB training please get in touch with us.
Why choose PIP Services for your construction training and certification?
We’re an approved ProQual approved NVQ centre as well as a accredited CITB training provider.
We specialise in delivering NVQ training as well as a wide range of other CITB and health and safety training training. We offer construction related NVQs from Level 1 to Level 7, covering trades such as bricklaying, plastering and tiling all the way up to senior management qualification such as the Level 7 NVQ Diploma in Construction Senior Management.
Since launching in 2005 we have rapidly progressed with thousands of clients coming through our training centre in the heart of Dagenham each year, as well as providing online options where available. We have helped countless people advance their career in construction and hope to do the same for you.
If you would like to speak to us about your construction training needs, please get in touch using the button below.
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“Absolutely thrilled by services provided by PIP team throughout journey in achieving NVQ7 in Senior management diploma. Everyone in team including Jack, Harry and Ricky was very helpful and supportive throughout. Many thanks and definitely recommend PIP to everyone who looking for progression in their personal progressions!.”
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