Mobile Crane – CADUK Skills Academy LTD

How the assessment works

This Mobile Crane NVQ is completely evidence-based. Instead of taking another test, you prove your day-to-day competence by uploading photos and short videos of tasks like pre-start checks, lifting operations, travelling with loads, setting up and packing down. You’ll also include routine site paperwork such as inspection sheets, RAMS, and maintenance logs. A short witness statement from a supervisor who has observed you operating the crane is also helpful. You can upload everything to our secure online e-Portfolio whenever it suits you.

Your assessor will review each upload, provide feedback, and let you know if anything else is needed. Once your evidence is accepted, you’ll book a one-to-one video call. During this structured discussion, the assessor will ask you to talk through what you’ve submitted and explain the site procedures you follow. It’s a relaxed, professional conversation, not a test, and usually takes just one session.

After the call, the assessor signs off your NVQ and submits it for certification. Around a week later, you’ll receive an electronic copy of your certificate so you can upgrade your CPCS or NPORS card.

No classroom time, no site visits, and no written exams - just clear, practical proof of the work you already do.

What sort of questions will I be asked?

Below are some examples of the kinds of questions an assessor may ask during the professional-discussion part of this Level 2 NVQ:

Assessor: How do you make sure the crane is set up safely before a lift?

Learner: I follow the lift plan and make sure the ground is level and firm. I check the outrigger mats are positioned properly, inspect the crane for defects, and use the rated capacity indicator to confirm I’m within limits. I also make sure there’s good communication with the slinger or lift supervisor before we start.

Assessor: Which personal protective equipment do you wear on this site and why?

Learner: Hard hat for head protection, high-vis vest so I’m visible to others, safety boots for foot protection, and gloves when handling chains or slings. I wear ear defenders if I’m near other noisy plant, and a face mask if I’m working where there’s dust or fumes.

Assessor: Why is it important to follow the method statement for lifting operations?

Learner: The method statement tells me exactly how the lift should be done, including load weights, lift radius, communication signals, and who’s in charge. It helps avoid confusion, keeps the lift safe, and makes sure everyone’s working to the same plan without delays or mistakes.

What kind of evidence will I need?

Think of evidence as anything that shows you operating the mobile crane safely and following normal site rules.

Visual proof:

Clear phone photos and short video clips of tasks like setting up the crane, extending outriggers, performing pre-use checks, lifting loads, slewing, travelling (if applicable), and shutting down safely at the end of the shift.

Site paperwork:

Routine documents that include your name or signature and show you’re following site procedures—examples include pre-start inspection checklists, lift plans or method statements you’ve signed, RAMS, daily or weekly crane inspection records, maintenance logs, defect reports, and lifting team briefings.

Witness statement:

A short note from a supervisor or lift supervisor confirming they have observed you operating the mobile crane competently on a live site.

General safety and productivity:

Anything that shows you contribute to a safe, efficient site. Good examples include near-miss or hazard reports you’ve raised, toolbox talk attendance records, briefings you’ve led, or records of communication (radio logs, emails, shift handover notes) where you helped coordinate lifting operations, plant movements, or site access for deliveries.

How long does it take?

The timing is largely up to you. Your assessor can only start reviewing your portfolio once you’ve uploaded your evidence, so the sooner everything is in the e-Portfolio, the sooner the process moves forward.

Some learners upload all their photos, videos and paperwork in a couple of days, schedule their discussion straight away and finish in less than one week. Others spread it out over several weeks because of shifts or site access.

In short, the pace is in your hands—submit your evidence promptly, respond to feedback quickly, and you can complete the NVQ just as fast.

What happens when I apply?

Click the “Book your NVQ” button to access our short online profiling form. This form collects the details we need to register you and asks you to upload a clear photo of the front and back of your CPCS or NPORS card.

Once we receive your form, one of our assessors will give you a quick call. The purpose of the call is to confirm that the NVQ is the right fit—that you’ve got the necessary experience, access to a mobile crane, and can gather the required evidence.

If everything checks out, we’ll email you an invoice. The profiling call is completely free and there’s no obligation—if you change your mind, simply ignore the invoice. If you’re ready to go ahead, just make the payment and we’ll enrol you the same day, assigning your assessor so you can start uploading evidence straight away.

Can I claim the CITB grant for this NVQ?

Yes, if you are a CITB-registered employer. This NVQ is eligible for the short-qualification grant of £600 (claimable on completion by the employer).

Only the company (not the individual learner) can make the claim, and the application must be submitted to CITB within 52 weeks of the achievement date.

If you are a sole trader or limited company already on the CITB register, you can still claim; private individuals who are not levy-registered cannot.

To confirm eligibility, call the CITB Levy & Grants team on 0344 994 4455 (Mon–Fri, 08:00–18:00) or email levy.grant@citb.co.uk to confirm your registration and grant status.

Is there a multi category discount?

Yes. If you take more than one Level 2 Plant Operations NVQ with us at the same time, we knock £100 off each additional category.

• £745 + VAT for the first NVQ
• £645 + VAT for every extra NVQ booked together