National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ's) are work-related, competence-based qualifications. They reflect the skills and knowledge needed to do a job effectively and show that a candidate is competent in the area of work the NVQ framework represents. NVQ's are based on national occupational standards. These standards are statements of performance that describe what competent people in a particular occupation are expected to be able to do. They cover all the main aspects of an occupation including current best practice, the ability to adapt to future requirements and the knowledge and understanding that underpin competent performance.

The CSCS Card shows that the holder is considered to be competent at his or her job, lists any relevant certificate/qualifications and also shows that the holder has passed a health and safety test. CSCS was set up to help the construction industry to improve quality and reduce accidents. CSCS cards are increasingly demanded as proof of occupational competence by contractors, public and private clients and others. The gold card is available for supervisors and technical occupations. Achievement of an NVQ or SVQ level 3 in a relevant occupation is required to apply for this CSCS card. For those who do not have an NVQ or SVQ level 3 application is by the experienced manager card. CSCS has recently introduced the Profiled Route which is for highly competent supervisors. This card is valid for five years.