NPORS 360 Excavator Training in Cornwall & Devon (N202)
We provide NPORS 360 Excavator training and testing in Cornwall, Devon, and the wider Southwest, suitable for both novice and experienced operators.
Whether you are completely new to excavators or need to gain your NPORS card for work, our courses are designed to give you the skills, confidence, and certification to operate safely and effectively.
Who is this course for?
This course is suitable for:
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Beginners with little or no experience
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Experienced operators needing an NPORS card
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Candidates requiring refresher training
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Employers booking training for staff
Course Aims
To provide thorough theory and practical training in operating the excavator, to enable the candidate to pass the NPORS theory and practical tests.
How long is the course?
Course duration will depend on you experience.
Recommended Duration:
Novice: Up to 10 Days
Refresher (with test): 1 Day
Experienced Worker Test: ½ Day (no training beforehand)
We will always recommend the most suitable option based on your experience.
What will I learn on the course?
To pass the test, you must successfully carry out the following activities:
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Complete all manufacturers pre-start checks
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Travel the excavator up and down a gradient
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Operate the excavator over varying terrain
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Travel through a restriction in a forward and reverse direction
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Prepare the excavator for the relevant work
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Produce a trench with vertical ends
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Form a load out bench appropriate for loading vehicles
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Load material into a vehicle
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Change the bucket/attachment
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Return the work area to the original state
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Place the excavator in the safe park position
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The practical test must be completed within 2 hours 15 minutes.
1-To-1 Training
Our courses are available as 1-to-1 training, meaning you will work directly with the instructor throughout your course.
This gives you:
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Maximum time in the cab
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No waiting around for other candidates
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Training tailored to your experience level
Our 1-to-1 excavator training allows you to focus on key skills such as digging, grading, and machine control. With continuous guidance from the instructor, you can quickly build confidence and correct any bad habits before your test.
Find out more about our 1-To-1 plant training here.
Group Training
We also offer:
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Group training courses
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Discounted rates for multiple candidates
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Flexible booking options for companies
NPORS 360 Excavator Test
Candidates will complete a theory and practical test.
The theory test consists of 5 written questions and 20 multiple choice questions. Candidates will be provided with a copy of the theory test questions before the test.
If any candidates experience difficulties with reading or writing, please let us know so we can assist them appropriately.
Candidates requiring the Traditional NPORS card with the "HS&E Tested" logo on the card must have passed the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Operatives test within two years of the NPORS test date.
Candidates requiring the CSCS NPORS card must also have passed the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Operatives test within two years of the NPORS test date.
Achievement
There are 2 types of NPORS cards available. Once candidates have passed both the theory and practical tests they will either achieve the 5 year Traditional NPORS Card or the 2 year NPORS CSCS Red Trained Operator Card (requires an NVQ on expiry).
What happens after I complete the course?
The Traditional NPORS Card is valid for 5 years and can be renewed by either an employer signing a renewal form, or by the operative completing refresher training.
The NPORS CSCS Red Trained Operator card is valid for 2 years, once achieved you can upgrade to an NPORS Blue Competent Operator card. To upgrade to a blue card, you must achieve the NVQ in Plant Operations before your red card expires.
For more information, please contact the test centre.
Why Choose Western Plant Training?
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1-to-1 training available
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High level of practical machine time
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Flexible course dates
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Experienced instructors
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Training tailored to your ability
Our aim is to ensure you leave not just with a qualification, but with the confidence to operate an excavator safely on site.
Book Your 360 Excavator Course
If you’re looking for NPORS 360 Excavator training in Cornwall or Devon, get in touch today.
We can:
Recommend the right course for your experience
Provide availability and pricing
Get you booked in quickly
Frequently Asked Questions
Q - How long does NPORS 360 excavator training take?
A - Course duration depends on experience. Beginners usually require training plus a test, while experienced operators can often complete a 1 day test.
Q - Do I need experience to take this course?
A - No, we offer courses for complete beginners as well as experienced operators.
Q - Can I do the NPORS excavator test only?
A - Yes, experienced operators may be eligible for an Experienced Worker Test (EWT). We can advise after a quick assessment.
Q - Is 1-to-1 training available?
A - Yes, we specialise in 1-to-1 training, giving you maximum machine time and focused support.
Q - Do you cover Exeter and surrounding areas?
A - Yes, we regularly train candidates from across Cornwall and Devon, including Plymouth, Exeter, Bodmin, Truro and Penzance.
Q - Can I do NPORS training at my site?
A - Yes, if the site meets the requirements set out by NPORS, our instructors can travel to your site to carry out training and testing. This can be more cost effective as there are no additional charges for our training area or machines.
Related Courses
If you also require Lifting Operations we can carry out NPORS Excavator as a Crane training at the same time as 360 Excavator training.
You may also be interested in our NPORS Forward Tipping Dumper training, which is commonly booked alongside excavator courses for site work. We also offer NPORS Ride on Roller training, helping you gain multiple qualifications often required on construction sites.