ProQual Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Land Drilling Operations: Land Driller Support Operative

The ProQual Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Land Drilling Operations: Land Driller Support Operative is a nationally recognised, competence-based qualification tailored for individuals working in support roles within the land drilling industry. It is specifically designed for operatives who assist lead drillers with tasks such as site preparation, equipment handling, drilling support, and health & safety compliance.

This practical, work-based NVQ confirms the ability to perform essential land drilling support functions safely and efficiently. It is ideal for those looking to develop a professional career in geotechnical investigation, environmental drilling, water well installation, or mineral exploration. Successful completion of this NVQ supports applications for the CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card and aligns with industry compliance standards including the British Drilling Association (BDA) Audit Scheme.

Course Overview

Qualification Title: ProQual Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Land Drilling Operations: Land Driller Support Operative
Qualification Level: Level 2 (Regulated Qualifications Framework – RQF)
Awarding Body: ProQual
Total Qualification Time (TQT): Approx. 500 hours
Assessment Method: Work-based portfolio, site observations, witness testimonies, professional discussion
Mode of Study: On-site assessment (no exams or classroom learning required)
Regulation: Ofqual recognised qualification
CSCS Card Eligibility: Yes – Blue Skilled Worker Card

Course Benefits

• Nationally Accredited Qualification: Recognised across the UK drilling and construction industries
• Work-Based Learning: Complete the NVQ on the job with no need to leave your workplace
• Skills Validation: Demonstrates your ability to support drilling operations safely and effectively
• Career Development: Provides a clear route into specialist drilling roles or advanced qualifications
• Improved Health & Safety Awareness: Learn how to maintain a safe working environment and follow site protocols
• BDA Audit Ready: Aligned with British Drilling Association competence requirements

Course Study Units

The ProQual Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Land Drilling Operations: Land Driller Support Operative, to achieve the qualification candidates must achieve a minimum of 53 credits (Total qualification time 570 hours):

• 29 credits from the Mandatory units, plus
• A minimum of 24 credits from o Group B;
• Candidates may choose to do any of the Additional units from Group C but they will not count towards qualification.

Mandatory Units 

Unit Title	Unit Level	Credit Value	GLH
Contributing to the Specified Drilling Programme in the Workplace	2	14	47
Establishing Work Area Protection and Safety in the Workplace	2	10	33
Conforming to General Health, Safety and Welfare in the Workplace	1	2	7
Conforming to Productive Working Practices in the Workplace	2	3	10

Group B

Mandatory units

Unit Title	Unit Level	Credit Value	GLH
Reinstating Ground Condition in the Workplace	2	12	40
Carrying Out Checks and/or Basic Maintenance on Plant or Machinery in the Workplace	2	8	27

Optional unit

Unit Title	Unit Level	Credit Value	GLH
Receiving and Organising Materials and Equipment for the Drilling Activity in the Workplace	2	9	30
Preparing and Operating Specialised Powered Tools and Equipment in the Workplace	2	4	13
Setting Out Secondary Dimensional Work Control in the Workplace	2	8	27
Slinging and Signalling the Movement of Loads (Secondary Role) in the Workplace	2	8	27

Group C Optional Units

Unit Title	Unit Level	Credit Value	GLH
Preparing and Operating Overhead Cranes to Lift and Transfer Loads in the Workplace	2	18	60
Preparing and Operating Excavator Cranes to Lift and Transfer Loads in the Workplace	2	30	100
Preparing and Operating Rough Terrain Masted Forklifts to Lift and Transfer Loads in the Workplace	2	18	60
Preparing and Operating Industrial Counterbalanced Forklifts to Lift and Transfer Loads in the Workplace	2	16	53
Preparing and Operating Sideloader Forklifts to Lift and Transfer Loads in the Workplace	2	16	53
Preparing and Operating Telescopic Handlers to Lift and Transfer Loads in the Workplace	2	25	83
Preparing and Operating Reach Trucks to Lift and Transfer Loads in the Workplace	2	16	53
Preparing and Operating Lorry Loaders or Knuckle Boom Cranes to Lift and Transfer Loads in the Workplace	2	30	100
Preparing and Operating 180 degree Excavators to Extract Ground and Loose Materials in the Workplace	2	80	267
Preparing and Operating Skid Steer Loaders to Extract Loose Materials in the Workplace	2	20	67
Preparing and Operating Loader Compressors to Extract Loose Materials in the Workplace	2	16	53
Preparing and Operating 360 degree Excavators to Extract Ground, Face and/or Loose Materials in the Workplace	2	80	267
Preparing and Operating Crawler/Tractor Dozers to Excavate and/or Form Ground in the Workplace	2	85	283
Preparing and Operating 360 degree Excavators to Excavate Ground in the Workplace	2	80	267
Preparing and Operating Truck-mounted Boom Concrete Pumps to Receive, Pump and Discharge Materials in the Workplace	2	70	233
Preparing and Operating Forward Tipping Dumpers to Receive, Transport and Discharge Materials in the Workplace	2	16	53
Preparing and Operating Agricultural-based Tractors for Non-agricultural Activities in the Workplace	2	20	67
Preparing and Operating Trailer-mounted Concrete Pumps to Receive, Pump and Discharge Materials in the Workplace	2	18	60
Preparing and Operating Self-propelled Bowsers to Receive, Transport and Discharge Materials in the Workplace	2	12	40

Learning Outcomes

By completing this qualification, learners will be able to:

• Safely assist in the setup, operation, and breakdown of drilling equipment
• Support lead drillers during land drilling operations
• Conform to health, safety, and environmental regulations on site
• Help manage drilling samples, casing, and site logistics
• Conduct equipment checks and maintenance under supervision
• Record and report work-related information clearly and accurately

Who Is This Course For?

This qualification is ideal for:

• New entrants to the land drilling industry working in support roles
• Drilling support operatives who wish to gain a formal qualification
• Junior staff on geotechnical, environmental, or mineral drilling projects
• Employers seeking to upskill and qualify their operational support teams
• Workers aiming to gain their CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card

No formal education is required. Candidates must be employed in a relevant support role within a land drilling operation.

Entry Requirements

Minimum Age: 18 years or older
Education: No academic requirements
Experience: Must be working in a drilling support role on an active site
English Language: Basic English skills are recommended for communication and safety procedures

Future Progression

Upon completion of the ProQual Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Land Drilling Operations: Land Driller Support Operative, learners can progress to:

• ProQual Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Land Drilling Operations: Land Driller
• ProQual Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Land Drilling Operations (Lead Driller Pathway)
• Advanced training in cable percussion, rotary drilling, or environmental investigation
• Supervisory roles within drilling or ground investigation teams
• Further health & safety, environmental, or site technician qualifications

Career opportunities include:

• Drilling Support Operative
• Assistant Driller
• Ground Investigation Assistant
• Environmental Field Operative
• Well Installation Support Technician

The ProQual Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Land Drilling Operations: Land Driller Support Operative is the perfect starting point for anyone seeking a career in land drilling. It provides the practical skills, knowledge, and recognition needed to work effectively and safely in support roles across a wide range of drilling projects. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to build a solid foundation for future advancement, this qualification is your first step toward a successful and rewarding career in the drilling industry.