What to Expect from a CPCS Course

If you are about to undertake, or are considering taking, a CPCS course then you might not know what to expect. Here we outline some of the basics of CPCS training, and explain why it’s an important step in undertaking a plant career.

 

Why do I need CPCS training?

The Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) is the largest and most highly recognised card certification scheme. The scheme provides proof of the skills and abilities of plant operators. It is important to note that a CPCS card is required to work in most categories of operating plants in the UK.

The CPCS scheme is important as it aims to raise the health and safety standards across the board by ensuring that everyone in the plant industry have met minimum standards. By undertaking the training you are proving yourself to be of a certain calibre and therefore allowing yourself to be more employable.

 

What is in the training?  

The scheme is a mix of professional competence, on site experience and health and safety awareness. The majority of CPCS training takes place at a registered CPCS training centre under the guidance of fully qualified trainers and testers.

After undertaking the course, an examination must be passed which consists of a one hour one-to-one interview style theory test and a practical exam which can last between one and half to three and a half hours to complete, depending on your chosen machinery. After passing your test on your chosen plant machinery, you will receive a red Trained Operator Card. This can be upgraded to a full Competent Operator blue card with the completion of an NVQ.

 

Core elements of the course:

  • Health, safety and awareness training
  • Logbook
  • CPCS Theory Test
  • SPCS Practical Test
  • Vocational operating qualifications SVQ and NVQ
  • On-site assessments to test on-going ability
  • CPCS Renewal Test – to ensure that all knowledge and ability is up-to-date a renewal must be taken after 2 years

 

How long is the course?

The length of the courses differ; they can be as short as two days or as long as ten days. Prices also vary depending on what you are taking your CPCS in and how long your chosen course is. Grants are sometimes available to help cover the cost of training.

 

What are my CPCS options?

You can receive your CPCS card in almost any plant you desire. Euro 1 Training offer plant training on the following:

  • Dragline
  • Forward Tipping Dumper
  • Excavator 180°
  • Industrial Forklift Truck
  • Grader
  • Loading Shovel
  • Skid Steer Loader
  • Motorised Scrape
  • Mobile Elevating Work Platform
  • Ride on Roller
  • Soil-Landfill Compactor
  • Crawler
  • Lorry Loader
  • Skip Handler
  • Slinger/Signaller
  • Crusher
  • Screener
  • Dump Truck
  • Excavator 360°

Euro 1 Training have 25 years’ training experience and a high pass rate. Our instructors have hands on industry experience and our courses are competitively priced. For more information on the services we offer or to discuss prices, contact us here.