Assessment Methods
The CITB Health, Safety and Environment (CSCS) test is a 45-minute, 50-question, touch-screen exam required for site access in the UK.
Progression Options
The CSCS card system is structured to reflect increasing skill, experience, and qualifications (NVQs). The Typical Progression Pathway is as follows:
- Red Card (Provisional/Trainee): Temporary card for those starting out or with no NVQ, valid while working towards a qualification.
- Green Card (Labourer): Entry-level card for workers performing general duties. Requires passing the Operatives test and Level 1 Award in Health and Safety.
- Blue Card (Skilled Worker): For tradespeople (e.g., Bricklayer, Plasterer). Requires Level 2 NVQ/SVQ.
- Gold Card (Advanced Craft/Supervisor): For highly skilled workers (Level 3 NVQ) or those managing teams.
- Black Card (Manager): For managers and professionals. Requires Level 4+ NVQ or management qualifications.
Entry Requirements
To take the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment (HS&E) test, also known as the CSCS test, there are no mandatory academic entry requirements, such as GCSEs or NVQs. The test is designed to ensure a minimum level of safety competence for working on construction sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.
