The Plant Training and Safety Specialists
We are the Construction Industry Training Academy (CITA). We deliver the highest standard of construction training courses for the industry. We create a positive impact on safety and efficiency on sites across the UK, by providing workforces with outstanding plant and safety training.
Why construction firms train with CITA
CITA is the Construction Industry Training Academy, run by Roger Bullivant since 2011. We train the Soletanche Bachy group and external clients in plant operation and site safety.
Piling rig tests few centres offer
We test all four CPCS piling rig categories, A45 to A48, plus A74 Piling Rig Attendant. Each is a one-day test for operators with 300 logged hours.
A purpose-built centre at Walton Park
Three classrooms with smart boards and a practical area for plant, so delegates learn in a realistic, safe working environment in South Derbyshire.
CITB levy claims handled for you
If your company pays the CITB levy, we process the claim, certification and card applications. You book the course and we deal with the paperwork.
Find your course
Choose a scheme to see the courses we run. Need a category that isn't listed? Ask and we'll arrange it.
CPCS training and test centre
The CPCS scheme proves an operator's skills on a specific category of plant. Our trainers and testers are fully qualified, and every delegate leaves knowing how to work safely and efficiently.
We deliver both, so your operators go from red to blue with one provider.
Piling rigs
- A45 Piling Rig Driven, below 20 tonnes
- A46 Piling Rig Driven, above 20 tonnes
- A47 Piling Rig Bored, below 20 tonnes
- A48 Piling Rig Bored, above 20 tonnes
- A74 Piling Rig Attendant
Concrete pumps and load securing
- A44 Concrete Pump, trailer mounted
- A75 Conveying Pump
- A49 Loader/Securer, non-STGO
- A50 Loader/Securer, STGO
Lifting operations
- A40 Slinger/Signaller, all duties
- A40b Slinger/Signaller, static duties
- A61 Appointed Person
- A62 Crane/Lifting Operations Supervisor
- A36 Lorry Loader
Telehandlers and forklifts
- A14 Rough Terrain Masted Forklift
- A16 Industrial Forklift Truck
- A17c Telescopic Handler, all sizes excluding slew
- A17e Telescopic Handler, suspended load
Earthmoving and site plant
- A09 Forward Tipping Dumper
- A21 Wheeled Loading Shovel
- A58 360° Excavator, below 10 tonnes
- A59a 360° Excavator, above 10 tonnes
- A59c 360° Excavator, above 10 tonnes with lifting operations
- A73 Plant and Vehicle Marshaller
NPORS plant training
CITA is an accredited NPORS training facility, running plant courses for the construction and industrial sectors. NPORS and CPCS are separate schemes, so check what your site asks for. Tell us the machine and we'll confirm the course.
- Accredited NPORS training facility
- Construction and industrial plant
- At our centre or on your site
Call 01332 977 233 for current NPORS categories.
EUSR CAT and Genny and LEEA Appointed Person training
We're accredited by EUSR to deliver Category 1 and 2 cable avoidance (CAT and Genny) and safe digging training. LEEA accredits our Appointed Person course for planning and managing lifts.
- EUSR CAT and Genny training: Category 1
- EUSR CAT and Genny training: Category 2
- EUSR Safe Digging
- LEEA Appointed Person
NVQs in plant operations, supervision and lifting
An NVQ is a work-based qualification that proves you can do your job safely. NOCN audits our NVQs regularly, and our assessors coach each candidate through their portfolio.
- NVQ Level 2 Plant Operations
- NVQ Level 3 Occupational Work Supervision (Construction)
- NVQ Level 4 Diploma in Controlling Lifting Operations: Supervising Lifts
- NVQ Level 5 Diploma in Controlling Lifting Operations: Planning Lifts
Other NVQs may be available. Ask our team.
CITB Site Safety Plus courses
Health and safety training for everyone from operative to senior manager. CITB audits our Site Safety Plus courses regularly, so they stay current with the industry.
- Health and Safety Awareness (HSA)1 day, supports the CSCS Labourer card
- SSSTSSite Supervision Safety Training Scheme
- SSSTS Refresher
- SMSTSSite Management Safety Training Scheme, 5 days
- SMSTS Refresher
In-house and on-site safety training
Our trainers build courses around your plant, your site and your team. Training supports your duties under HSWA 1974, PUWER 1998 and LOLER 1998.
- Abrasive wheels training
- Appointed Person (LEEA accredited)
- Cable avoidance (CAT and Genny) training (EUSR accredited)
- Combi lift truck
- Exclusion zone management for piling
- Face fit testing
- Fire Marshal
- HAVS awareness training
- Industrial forklift truck
- Manual handling
- MEWP training
- Overhead travelling crane
- Risk assessment awareness
- Working at height
What trainees say
The theory side of this course was very intense but the way the trainers put it over to you makes it so easy to understand. This became relevant whilst doing the practical element and helped me to achieve a pass in both the theory and practical test.
I went on the abrasive wheels course at CITA's office in Swadlincote and was completed in half a day, this also included face fit testing which was really good and saved some time! All the staff are easy to talk to and were pleasant at all times.
I found the trainers were very knowledgeable in the subject and were very patient and understanding with new learners, the facilities were very clean and comfortable to learn in. A very good, relaxed environment with free food and drinks supplied.
CPCS and NVQ questions
Can't see your question? Call 01332 977 233, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
What is a CPCS card?
CPCS stands for the Construction Plant Competence Scheme. A CPCS card proves an operator has been trained and tested on a specific category of plant, such as a 360 excavator or a piling rig. Most major contractors ask for one before you can operate plant on their sites.
How do I get a CPCS red card?
You must first complete a health and safety touch screen test, then pass the relevant theory and practical tests for a specific category.
How long does a CPCS red card last, and how do I upgrade to blue?
The CPCS red card lasts for two years, during which you must complete an NVQ Level 2 to convert it to a blue competence card. Your red card can be extended for up to a third year if you are registered for the NVQ.
How do I renew a CPCS blue card?
The blue card lasts for five years. During that time you must record 300 hours for each category on your card and sit the renewal touch screen test for each category. You must also hold a health and safety touch screen test from within the last two years. If you don't have enough hours in your logbook, you can apply for an onsite assessment, notified through CPCS in the same way as a practical test.
Is the CPCS theory test written?
No. The tester reads out all the questions and you give your answers verbally. The test is recorded on a dictaphone.
What happens if I fail the theory or practical test?
If you don't pass the theory test, you can't attempt the practical. If you pass the theory but not the practical, your theory pass stays valid for six months, and you can attempt the practical test again within that time.
Can CPCS tests be done on site?
Certain categories, such as piling rigs and concrete pumps, can be completed on site, but many must be completed at a training centre. Contact us for specific details.
Is NPORS the same as CPCS?
No. NPORS and CPCS are separate plant operator schemes, and both are widely recognised in construction. Some principal contractors ask for one scheme over the other, so check site requirements before you book. CITA offers both.
Does a CPCS card cover CSCS?
CPCS is a CSCS partner scheme, so a valid CPCS card shows you meet the CSCS standard for the categories on it. You won't usually need a separate CSCS card for that role.
How do I complete an NVQ?
You'll have an induction for the relevant NVQ, where your assessor explains what evidence is required. The induction includes questions on your specific category as well as basic health and safety. You'll then provide evidence of your work, which could include a witness testimony from your employer, photos and a professional discussion.
How long does an NVQ take?
It depends on the individual and how long it takes to gather the evidence and complete their portfolio.
Can you claim the CITB levy grant for us?
Yes. If your company is registered with CITB and pays the levy, we'll process your claim along with certification and card applications.
Book CPCS or safety training for your team
Send us your details and we'll call you back to talk through courses, dates and a price.
- Address
- CITA, RB Walton Park, Hearthcote Road, Swadlincote, Derbyshire, DE11 9DU
- Phone
- 01332 977 233
A short drive from Burton upon Trent, Derby and Leicester. More about Walton Park
