NVQ qualifications assess occupational competence through evidence gathered in the workplace. This diploma follows that approach: candidates compile a portfolio of evidence that demonstrates their skills, judgment and professional behaviours against defined occupational standards. Evidence may include documented risk assessments, minutes from safety leadership meetings, records of audits and inspections, incident investigation outputs, project plans for risk reduction, witness testimonies and reflective commentary that links practice to the standard.

Assessment is carried out by experienced, external assessors who verify the evidence and observe workplace performance where necessary. There are no single-session examinations; progression is competency-based. Candidates work with their assessor and mentor to structure submissions, close gaps where they appear and present a coherent, standards-aligned portfolio. This method ensures that the qualification reflects capability that is both current and directly applicable to the candidate’s work environment.