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Industry-standard qualification for tracked excavators above 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 site experience, the A59 covers operators of tracked machines above 10 tonnes.
Never operated an excavator? The full 7-day course takes you from zero to test-ready with comprehensive theory and practical training.
Been running diggers but don't have your CPCS card? 2-3 days of training gets you test-ready, or consider the Experienced Worker Test if you're confident.
Worked on 180° excavators or machines under 10 tonnes? You've got transferable skills—typically 2-3 days depending on your background.
Red Card expiring and haven't completed NVQ yet? Re-test to extend it while we help you get that Blue Card sorted.
Already hold other CPCS cards? Add excavator certification to your portfolio and increase your versatility and earning potential on site.
Training multiple staff? We accommodate group bookings and work around project timelines where possible.
Book your 360° Excavator Above 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.
Typically afternoon of final day demonstrating safe operation.
CPCS Red Card (Trained Operator)
Professional training with over 20 years of plant operator expertise in Staffordshire
Dedicated one-on-one instruction. Proper supervision, not a crowded course. Plenty of time in the cab.
Modern, well-maintained tracked excavators (10-15+ tonnes). Not hired-in kit.
Not sure if you need full training, 2-3 days, or EWT? We'll assess you honestly and advise the best route. No obligation.
We'll connect you to NVQ providers and help you understand funding options (CITB grants, Apprenticeship Levy, etc.).
No hard sell, no gimmicks. Just quality training and honest advice on what you need.
Duration depends on your experience level. We tailor training to what you actually need, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
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 Above 10 Tonnes training
Complete beginners: 7 days
Experienced operators: 2-3 days + assessment
Experienced Worker Test: 1 day (test only). If you're unsure which applies, we offer a free practical assessment to advise the best route.
No. Complete beginners are welcome on the 7-day course. If you've got experience, we can shorten the training (2-3 days) or advise whether you're ready for the Experienced Worker Test.
A58: Excavators 360° below 10 tonnes
A59: Excavators 360° above 10 tonnes
The weight threshold matters because heavier machines have different handling characteristics and greater consequences if things go wrong. Check what size machines you'll be operating—most UK sites use 13-20 tonne excavators, which is A59 territory.
Yes. The CPCS Red Card is valid for site work as soon as you receive it. It's recognised across UK construction and civil engineering 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 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 (CITB grants, Apprenticeship Levy, etc.).
The EWT is a one-day test-only route for people with significant recent experience on 360° excavators above 10 tonnes. You need to be confident you can pass both theory and practical tests without training.
Be realistic: If you're borderline, it's smarter to do 2-3 days of training and go in prepared. Fail the EWT and you'll have to start over with full training.
We offer a free practical assessment to help you decide if you're EWT-ready.
You'll train on tracked excavators in the 10-15+ tonne range. These are modern, well-maintained machines from our own fleet (not hired-in).
First, we'll debrief you on what went wrong. Then we'll discuss the best way to get you retested—whether that's more practice, another day of training, or just booking a retest.
Failing isn't the end of the world, but it's better to go in properly prepared first time.
If you're using your excavator to lift and place loads (not just digging), you need the A59C endorsement. This involves additional training on load charts, slinging techniques, and safe lifting operations.
Ask if you're unsure whether you need this—most operators don't, but if your site requires lifting duties, you'll need the C variant.
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.
Funding options depend on your employment status:
We can discuss options when you enquire. For NVQ costs specifically, there's often more funding available—talk to us about connecting with providers.
1:1 dedicated instruction. That means you're not sharing an instructor with a big group—you get proper supervision and plenty of time in the cab.
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.
Because full slew capability brings different hazards that don't exist on 180° machines:
The A59 proves you understand these risks and can operate safely and competently.
Below 10 tonnes, you'd do the A58 category instead. Above 10 tonnes (A59), the machine is heavier, handling characteristics are different, and consequences of mistakes are greater.
The category system isn't arbitrary—it ensures your training matches the machines you'll actually operate. Most UK sites use excavators in the 13-20 tonne range, which is firmly A59 territory.
Expand your qualifications with these complementary certifications
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.