The short version
- Main routeNVQ Diploma in Fenestration Installation, Level 2
- Leads toBlue Skilled Worker card
- HowAssessed on your own jobs. No classroom.
- You needCurrent work in the trade to show
- TimeOften a few months, depending on your evidence
Window and door fitters, glaziers and surveyors all have their own NVQ routes, assessed on the jobs you already do.
Who it's for
- Window and door installers
- Glaziers
- Fenestration surveyors
- Curtain wall installers
- Glass processing and fabrication workers
New to the trade? On-site NVQs need real jobs to assess, so they're not for complete beginners. Start with an apprenticeship or college course. See routes for new starters.
Which qualification?
| Qualification | Level | Card it leads to |
|---|---|---|
| NVQ Diploma in Fenestration Installation | 2 | Blue Skilled Worker |
| NVQ Diploma in Fenestration Installation | 3 | Gold Advanced Craft |
| NVQ Certificate in Glazing | 2 | Blue Skilled Worker |
| NVQ Certificate in Glazing | 3 | Gold Advanced Craft |
| NVQ Certificate in Fenestration Surveying | 3 | Gold Advanced Craft |
| NVQ Certificate in Curtain Wall Installation | 2 | Blue Skilled Worker |
There are separate routes for installing, glazing, surveying, curtain wall, glass processing and fabricating glass supporting structures. Pick the one that matches your day-to-day work.
What the assessor wants to see
- Survey sheets and measurements
- Installs photographed from removal to finished seal
- Delivery notes and order specs
- Customer or site manager sign-off
Tip: Most fitters already keep before-and-after photos for customers. Those count, so start a folder.
How it works
Quick skills check
A short check of your glazing experience works out the right level and pathway.
Register
You're registered with the awarding body and given a portfolio to fill.
Build your evidence
Photos, job sheets and witness statements from work you're already doing.
Site visit
The assessor comes to an install, from removal of old frames to fixing, packing, sealing and finishing, or to a survey if that's your route.
Discussion
Questions cover measuring and tolerances, Building Regulations basics, safety glass and handling, and fixings.
Certificate
After a quality check, you're qualified.
How long it takes
Installers with a steady flow of fits can usually finish quickly. Surveying and curtain wall routes depend on the jobs you're doing.
Cost
Expect to pay roughly £800–£1,000 + VAT for a Level 2 or 3 with a private assessment centre. Supervisory and management levels cost more. These are ballpark figures. The price usually covers registration, assessment and the certificate. Some providers offer instalments, and employers may be able to claim a CITB grant.
Getting your card
Level 2 routes lead to the Blue Skilled Worker card and Level 3 to Gold Advanced Craft. The CITB HS&E test is also needed.
Quick answers
I fit doors and windows. Which route do I need?
Usually fenestration installation. Glaziers working mainly with glass may suit the glazing route.
Do surveyors have their own NVQ?
Yes. There's a Level 3 route for fenestration surveying.
Can customer photos count as evidence?
Before-and-after photos help, alongside job paperwork and an observed visit.
Is there a written exam?
Not for the NVQ itself. It's assessed through evidence, observation and discussion. The CITB HS&E test for your card is separate.