Hi Folks, I know the NVQ route has come up quite a bit on the forum & sorry to raise it again but I can't seem to find the information relevant to my position & whether it's the best route for me to take. A heavy proportion of my day is CDM advisor as I work for a practice who act as PD, as well as discharge Client duties. I also manage the office safety (small practice, low risk), and do some consultancy work for other companies. I had previously worked in engineering and retail/distribution before entering construction. I am looking to further my training and think the NVQ will suit my situation solely on the the fact my company won't pay to do the diploma and i am not in a position to self fund. But is it right for me...I know it is workplace based, but my work is now heavily CDM and not sure how this would work with the qualification and whether I am too 'pigeon-holed'. I would appreciate your thoughts/comments.

Have you looked at the NCRQ Diploma? This is accredited to Level 6 and is pitched at just under £1,000, John

Hi Kate Highly recommend the NCRQ route if you want to actually learn some skills. I have found it an excellent method of study, with brilliant tutor support. They also have a very active and friendly student support forum when you sign up. I think the NVQ route is good if you already have the skills and have evidence to support it already (although I have no direct experience of it myself), but the NCRQ route gives you the scenarios to generate your evidence in the form of accident investigations, risk assessments, presentations, advice to clients, etc. I don't want this to turn into one of those NEBOSH v NVQ v NCRQ threads again though! PM if you want any more feedback. Peter