How the New Level 3 Qualification Raises the Standard for the Flooring Industry

By Shaun Wadsworth, CFA Training Manager

Big news for the flooring industry – the core qualification for floorlayers across the UK has been officially raised from Level 2 to Level 3. This is not just a change in paperwork, it is a shift that is set to boost training, raise standards, and unlock new opportunities for everyone involved in floorcovering.

The updated National Occupational Standards (NOS), which define the skills, knowledge and behaviours expected of a qualified floorlayer, now set NVQ Level 3 as the new minimum benchmark. And thanks to the hard work and leadership of the Contract Flooring Association (CFA), this change has the full backing of the industry, from contractors to manufacturers and distributors, as well as the support of CITB and other key bodies.

If you are an employer or flooring installer this change helps secure higher standards, improved safety, workmanship, and customer confidence. For those entering the industry, including career changers, including people leaving the armed forces, the new Level 3 opens fresh training routes and access to funding that were previously unavailable. For example, ex-service personnel will now be able to use Enhanced Learning Credits (ELCs) to train as floorlayers, something that was not possible at Level 2. That means the industry can now welcome skilled, disciplined individuals looking for a civilian career, supported by proper funding.

Flooring has become more technical and demanding than ever. New materials, updated installation techniques, and tighter health and safety standards all mean that a floorlayer looking to be qualified already works to a higher level that the current Level 2 NVQ, and the update needed to reflect that.

Raising the bar to Level 3 ensures that qualifications match the real demands of modern flooring, helping to build a stronger and more professional workforce. The move also aligns standards across the UK, whether you are working in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland – the aim is consistency and clarity. While qualifications may look slightly different in each nation (such as SVQs in Scotland or QCF pathways in Wales and Northern Ireland), the expectations are now firmly Level 3 across the board. For those holding current qualifications at Level 2, nothing will change but going forward, awarding bodies will only offer a Level 3 qualification for those looking to be accredited.

The CFA has been at the heart of this progress. As a key voice in the industry, CFA brought together contractors to help shape these new standards. The Association also worked closely with CITB, ensuring the new qualifications reflect both current site realities and future industry needs. This work is just one example of the CFA’s commitment to raising the profile and professionalism of floorlaying, continuing to champion its members and promote a more skilled and respected workforce.

Over the coming months, training providers and employers will start adapting their programmes to meet the new Level 3 requirements. That means better quality training, more consistent outcomes, and greater recognition for those entering or progressing within the trade. For CFA members, this is a positive step. It supports recruitment, improves quality on site, and strengthens our case when bidding for work, especially where Government is legislating, and therefore clients are asking for, clear evidence of competency.

This is more than a technical update, it is a major step forward for the flooring industry. With CFA’s support, we are helping to create a future that is better trained, better recognised, and better prepared for the challenges ahead.

www.cfa.org.uk
Shaun@cfa.org.uk
0115 950 6836