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Industry-standard qualification for tracked excavators below 10 tonnes with full 360° slew capability. Prove your competence, work on UK sites, and build towards your Blue Card.
Whether you're brand new to excavators or need formal certification for mini and mid-size digger experience, the A58 covers operators of tracked machines below 10 tonnes.
Operating on residential builds, commercial sites, and general groundwork projects requiring versatile excavation equipment
Working on gas, water, drainage, and telecoms installations where compact excavators excel in confined urban spaces
Garden construction, pond excavation, drainage systems, and landscape earthworks using nimble, manageable equipment
Foundation digging, trenching, drainage, and site preparation on smaller to medium-scale construction projects
Starting a plant operating career with manageable machine sizes before progressing to larger excavators (A59 series)
Training multiple operators? We accommodate group bookings and work around project timelines where possible
Book your 360° Excavator Below 10 Tonnes training today
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This isn't vague promises—here's what actually happens during your training, broken down by theory and practical components.
Training routes tailored to your experience and operational background
We offer a free assessment service to help determine the best training path based on your experience and goals.
Prerequisites for certification
Before taking the CPCS technical tests, you must pass the Health, Safety & Environment test.
Valid for 2 years, this can be completed at our centre during your visit!
Comprehensive evaluation of competence
40 question examination conducted by a CPCS appointed tester.
Hands-on assessment demonstrating competent excavator operation demonstrating safe operation.
CPCS Red Card (Trained Operator)
Professional training with over 20 years of plant operator expertise in Staffordshire
Train on modern compact and mid-size 360 excavators matching industry standards for general construction work.
Learn from trainers with extensive groundwork, utilities, and general construction experience using excavators below 10 tonnes.
Dedicated one-on-one instruction ensures substantial machine operating time and personalized skill development for every candidate.
Purpose-built training ground with trenching areas, loading zones, and confined space simulation for practical skill development.
Complete training and testing at our Staffordshire facility - streamlined process with no external travel required.
Foundation for advancing to larger excavators (A59 series), NVQ support, and guidance on plant operator career development.
Competitive pricing for professional certification
Complete certification package
Eligible companies can receive substantial grants to cover training costs. Contact us to check your eligibility and find out how much you could save.
Spread the cost of your training with Klarna.
Klarna payment options may be available at checkout, subject to eligibility.
Klarna's terms and conditions apply.
Common questions about 360° Excavator Below 10 Tonnes training
CPCS A58 covers 360 excavators below 10 tonnes, while A59 series covers excavators above 10 tonnes. The key differences are:
Both require separate CPCS certifications, and many employers value operators who hold both qualifications for maximum versatility.
Yes! The CPCS A58 qualification covers all 360 excavators below 10 tonnes, giving you excellent versatility. This includes:
This flexibility makes A58 certification highly valuable, as you can work across different project sizes and requirements without needing multiple qualifications.
Training typically focuses on machines in the 5-8 tonne range, which provides skills transferable to both smaller and larger machines within the below-10-tonne category.
A58 certification opens opportunities across numerous construction and civil engineering sectors:
Earning potential with A58 varies by region and experience:
Many operators start with A58 then progress to A59 (above 10 tonnes) to increase earning potential and job opportunities on larger projects.
Complete beginners (no excavator experience): 10 days (full training + testing)
Some experience (informal operation): 3-5 days
Experienced operators (regular use): 2 days test preparation
Renewals: 1 day. Duration depends on your current skill level—we can assess beforehand to advise honestly.
No. Complete beginners are welcome on the 10-day novice course. If you've operated excavators informally or have related plant experience, training can be shortened to 3-5 days.
Yes. The CPCS Red Card is valid for site work as soon as you receive it. It's recognised across UK construction, utilities, and landscaping sites.
However, you must upgrade to Blue Card (via NVQ Level 2) within the two-year validity period.
You need to complete NVQ Level 2 in Plant Operations (Excavator) while working on site. This typically takes 6-12 months and is assessed based on your real-world competence, not another exam.
The process:
We can connect you to NVQ providers and help you explore funding options.
We'll debrief you on what went wrong—whether it's theory knowledge, control coordination, or safety awareness. Then we'll discuss the best way to get you retested.
This might be more practice time, additional training, or just booking a retest. It's better to go in properly prepared first time.
Because full slew capability brings different hazards that don't exist on 180° machines:
The A58 proves you understand these risks and can operate safely and competently.
Two years. Within that time, you need to complete your NVQ Level 2 and upgrade to a Blue Card. If you don't, your Red Card expires and you'll need to retest.
No, a CSCS card isn't required for CPCS training. However, if you have one, bring it—it's useful to have for general site access.
Funding options depend on your employment status:
Contact us to check eligibility and discuss options.
Most operators start with A58 for several good reasons:
However, if you know you'll be working exclusively on larger machines (10+ tonnes), you can go straight for A59. We can advise based on your situation.
Training typically covers the most common attachments:
Once qualified, you can operate excavators with breakers, grabs, augers, and other attachments—the control principles are the same. Some attachments may require additional site-specific training.
Join professional operators with recognised CPCS certification. Expert training available in Staffordshire.
Professional training available throughout the year in Staffordshire. Contact us for course dates.