The Tile Association now assists experienced tilers to gain their NVQ, and in turn a CSCS card, providing a route to qualification for experienced operatives via on-site and off-site assessments.
Most principal contractors and major house builders require construction workers on their sites to hold a valid CSCS card. An NVQ is a prerequisite for a construction industry professional applying for a CSCS card. For experienced tilers, there are two paths to the NVQ: EWPA (Experienced Worker Practical Assessment) or OSAT (On-Site Assessment & Training).
CSCS has published guidance on the different ways that individuals holding Blue, Gold or Black Industry Accreditation cards issued by the core scheme can move onto an appropriate card.
With the OSAT route, the assessment is conducted at the candidate’s place of work. The EWPA route is carried out off-site under the observation of an approved assessor. Tilers can achieve a Level 2 NVQ via these routes.
The Tile Association provides both EWPA and OSAT assessments with CITB registered assessors. EWPA assessments with The Tile Association are conducted at a training facility or on-site, location agreed by the assessor and candidate.
Cost for an EWPA Assessment
- Members – £800 + VAT per candidate, plus £71 CITB registration fee
- Non-members – £900 + VAT, plus £71 CITB registration fee
Cost for an OSAT Assessment
- Members – £800 + VAT per candidate, plus £71 CITB registration fee
- Non-members – £900 + VAT, plus £71 CITB registration fee
- Additional expenses to be agreed and paid directly to the assessor