Which Level 6 NVQ Should a Site Manager Choose?

If you’re a Site Manager looking to apply for the Black CSCS Card, the obvious choice might seem to be the Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Management.

After all, it has “Site Management” in the title.

However, that is not always the most suitable qualification.

In many cases, the Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Construction Contracting Operations Management can be a better and more realistic option, depending on the size and structure of your project.

The Assumption: Level 6 NVQ in Construction Site Management

The Level 6 NVQ in Construction Site Management is widely recognised and is often the qualification people have heard about.

It is designed for managers running larger construction sites where there is clear responsibility across multiple operational areas such as:

• Programme and planning control
• Commercial and cost management
• Health and safety systems
• Procurement and subcontractor management
• Quality control processes
• Environmental management
• Workforce management and leadership

This qualification contains 20 units in total.

It is comprehensive and suited to managers who genuinely cover the full range of large-site responsibilities.

If you are running a small site, refurbishment project, or operating within a limited scope, you may not realistically carry out all of the activities required to evidence every unit.

The Alternative: Level 6 NVQ in Construction Contracting Operations Management

The Level 6 NVQ in Construction Contracting Operations Management (CCOM) is also a degree-level qualification.

It leads to the same Black CSCS Manager Card.

It is assessed in the same way.

It is the same price.

The key difference is structure.

The CCOM qualification contains 9 units in total.

It focuses on demonstrating competence in managing construction operations, planning, coordination and delivery without requiring evidence across the full 20-unit structure of the Site Management route.

This makes it particularly suitable for:

• Site Managers on smaller projects
• Managers working for subcontractors
• Managers overseeing specific packages of work
• Professionals with operational responsibility but limited commercial exposure

Both Qualifications Lead to the Black CSCS Card

There is no difference in CSCS outcome.

Both the Level 6 NVQ in Construction Site Management and the Level 6 NVQ in Construction Contracting Operations Management allow you to apply for the Black CSCS Manager Card once completed.

The decision should therefore be based on your job role and evidence, not simply the title of the qualification.

How Are They Assessed?

At CADUK, both qualifications are assessed:

• 100% remotely
• Through professional discussion
• Using real workplace evidence
• Without exams or classroom attendance

The assessment method is identical for both routes.

The difference is simply the scope and number of units required.

Which One Is Right for You?

If you are managing a large site with full commercial, procurement and programme responsibility, the Level 6 NVQ in Construction Site Management may be appropriate.

If you are managing construction operations but do not cover the full range of large-site responsibilities, the Level 6 NVQ in Construction Contracting Operations Management may be more realistic and achievable.

Choosing the correct route from the start avoids delays, unnecessary evidence gaps and unit issues later in the process.

Free Profiling Before You Enrol

At CADUK, we carry out a free, non-committal profiling call before enrolment.

We review your role, responsibilities and project type to ensure you enrol on the qualification that genuinely reflects your job.

If you are considering the Level 6 NVQ in Construction Site Management, you can apply here:

Apply for Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Management

If you are considering the Level 6 NVQ in Construction Contracting Operations Management, you can apply here:

Apply for Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Construction Contracting Operations Management

Once you submit your form, one of our assessors will contact you to confirm the most suitable route before you commit.