I have been a practising HS&E professional for over twelve years, managing EPC projects and in corporate roles implementing standards in my chosen field. I contract through choice. I have over these years obtained Diploma (NVQ5), NVQ4, NEBOSH, IEMA associate, CDM (3 day) Management, temporary works coordinator (CSkills), internal/lead auditor in quality as well as other more task specific. Professional bodies I subscribe to IOSH, awaiting peer interview for Chartership, IEMA and in September will be applying for IMaPs with APS.

My question is were do I go now to make me stand out from others contracting, as the norm now is Diploma, its heading the same as NEBOSH. Is it worth me going for BSc or MSc as a contractor for CPD. Would I gain any new knowledge that would benefit me long term.

I have pursued E & Q as far as I want to, can anyone offer advise, any recommendations will have to be either distance learnt or a few days taught, I am not able to attend a course over a term due to work commitments.

Having Experience in your chosen field would certainly make your stand out more than simply having masses of qualifications. Experience, Word of mouth, Reputation all go a long way to making you the best in your field. i've seen people with Degrees in Health and Safety want to do a Nebosh General certificate, just because they havn't got one. Whats the point in going backwards when you need to go forward.

I'm quite happy with my Qualifications at present, I'm doing the NCRQ diploma and the IEMA Associate course. I'm doing my NVQ assessors Course as well as a level 3 award in Education and training. I think thats probably going to be about right for me and now i concentrate in pushing myself getting more experience in my chosen field.