How to go about achieving my NVQ

[Danmmd]

Hello. I have been working within the plumbing industry for around 8 years, since I completed my 6129 course at college. I have mainly been working as a mate/improver. I want to progress onto my nvq, but have been told I need to be working as a plumber in order to achieve it. Problem being with most of the work I do being on construction sites, I can't get myself a plumbers card without the NVQ. I'm looking for info on how I would go about getting the nvq if this is the case. Is there a different CSCS card I can use in order to obtain work as plumber whilst I am doing the course? I'm really confused as to what i need to do. Thank you all in advance for your help