NPORS N209 Loading Shovel Course
Operate one of the most versatile machines on UK construction and industrial sites with our NPORS N209 Loading Shovel Course. Loading shovels – often called wheeled loading shovels – are essential for shifting, loading and stockpiling bulk materials, and trained operators are always in demand.
Our course gives you the confidence and practical skills to work safely, efficiently and in line with current safety standards. On completion, you’ll receive an NPORS Operator Card, fully recognised across the UK.
We run training at our Wellingborough centre or on-site anywhere in the UK, and we offer a lowest price guarantee – if you find a cheaper like-for-like course, we will match it.
Who this course is for
This course is open to anyone who operates – or plans to operate – a loading shovel. It’s a good fit for:
- New entrants aiming to start a career as a loading shovel operator
- Site workers and plant operatives adding loading shovel duties to their roles
- Experienced operators completing an experienced worker assessment
- Workers in construction, industrial yards, warehouses, ports, quarries or recycling plants
No previous experience is needed – we’ll match the training pace to your level.
What you will learn
During our NPORS loading shovel training, you’ll spend most of your time on the machine while picking up the theory you need to work safely on real sites.
We start with site safety rules, hazard awareness and your legal duties under LOLER and PUWER. You’ll learn how to inspect key parts like tyres, hydraulics and controls, carry out daily pre-start checks, and record defects the way real operators do on site.
Then you move on to machine operation. You’ll practise accurate bucket control, collecting and tipping materials, and manoeuvring in stockpiles and tight spaces. We’ll also cover how to maintain stability on rough or sloped ground and how to work safely near banksmen, pedestrians and other plant.
Along the way, you’ll learn how to reduce dust, noise and fuel use, how to use the manufacturer’s handbook to solve issues, and how to keep work flowing while following site rules. We finish with shutdown, parking and securing procedures, plus how to prepare the loading shovel for transport on a low loader.
Course format and certification
- Training delivered UK-wide on your site or at our Wellingborough training centre
- Routes for novice candidates and experienced worker assessments
- Taught by qualified instructors with years of site experience
- Combination of hands-on machine time and focused theory
- On successful completion you’ll receive your NPORS Operator Card (valid 5 years)
- or NPORS/CSCS card (valid 2 years with a valid CITB HS&E test)
Why choose Construction & Plant Training Services
Choosing where to train matters – and we’ve built our reputation on giving people the skills they actually need on site.
Our instructors are experienced plant operators who’ve worked in quarries, ports and construction before moving into training. They know the smart techniques that save time and the bad habits to avoid – and they’ll pass that on while keeping sessions relaxed and clear.
We keep group sizes small, so you’ll spend more time in the cab and get direct feedback as you go. Training can take place at our Wellingborough centre or anywhere in the UK, and we’re happy to plan sessions around your shifts to minimise downtime.
And if cost is a concern, we keep it simple: we’ll match any like-for-like quote so you get the best price without cutting quality.
Outcomes and career benefits
Completing the NPORS N209 Loading Shovel Course gives you:
- A recognised NPORS loading shovel licence / loading shovel ticket
- The skills to work safely and productively on construction, warehouse, industrial and port sites
- Increased employability and access to higher-paid roles
- A solid base to progress into other heavy plant categories in future
Loading shovels are used on sites across the UK, so this qualification can open the door to stable, long-term work.
Join our NPORS N209 Loading Shovel Course
Ready to start? Book your NPORS N209 Loading Shovel Course today with Construction & Plant Training Services – and get trained, certified and site-ready.
NPORS N209 Loading Shovel Course – FAQ
What is the NPORS N209 Loading Shovel course?
It is practical and theory-based training that teaches you how to operate a wheeled loading shovel safely and efficiently. It leads to a recognised NPORS Operator Card accepted on UK construction and industrial sites.
Who can take this course?
Anyone aged 16+ with a good level of English. It suits novice loading shovel operators, plant operatives adding new skills, and experienced workers needing formal certification.
Do I need any experience before enrolling?
No. We offer a full novice loading shovel course for beginners and an experienced worker assessment route for those with prior experience.
What will I learn on this course?
You will cover hazard awareness, site rules, pre-start checks, machine components and controls, safe bucket operation, manoeuvring in confined areas, loading and unloading materials, working near banksmen and pedestrians, environmental best practice, and shutdown and transport preparation.
How long does the training take?
Usually 2–3 days for beginners. Experienced workers can complete a shorter assessment route in 1 day.
Where is the training delivered?
At our Wellingborough training centre or on-site anywhere in the UK. If you searched for “loading shovel training near me” – we can come to you.
Can you run this training on our site?
Yes. We regularly deliver on-site loading shovel training UK-wide for construction, warehouse, quarry and port operators.
Do you provide the loading shovel and equipment?
Yes at our centre. For on-site training, suitable loading shovels and a safe training area must be available.
What qualification will I receive?
You will earn an NPORS Operator Card (sometimes called a loading shovel licence or loading shovel ticket): valid 5 years (NPORS) or 2 years (NPORS/CSCS).
Do I need a CITB HS&E test?
If you want the NPORS card to carry the CSCS logo for access to larger sites, you must have passed the CITB Health, Safety & Environment test within the last 2 years.
Is the NPORS loading shovel ticket recognised across the UK?
Yes. The NPORS N209 loading shovel ticket is widely accepted by UK construction, industrial and logistics companies.
How much does the course cost?
We offer the lowest prices in the UK. If you find a cheaper like-for-like quote, we will match it.
