You should be aiming for at least 3 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including English Language and/or mathematics.
These requirements may alter dependent upon the needs of the employer. If you don’t quite achieve the entry criteria though don’t worry, we can discuss your options.
If you have not achieved a Grade 4 in English Language and/or mathematics you will be required to achieve a Level 1 or Level 2 Functional Skills in English and/or Maths as part of your Apprenticeship.
Start date:
Aug 2024
Course Overview
The Level 2 Painting and Decorating Apprenticeship offers the perfect opportunity to begin a career in one of the most versatile and creative trades within the construction industry. This occupation requires precision, care, and attention to detail, and plays an essential role across both commercial and domestic projects.
As an apprentice, you will learn how to prepare surfaces, apply water-borne and solvent-borne paint coatings, and work with a variety of wallcoverings to professional standards. Training will develop your knowledge of materials, tools, and techniques, alongside an understanding of statutory, safety, and environmental requirements.
Working both individually and as part of a team, you will gain practical experience on-site with your employer, supported by structured off-the-job training at our Accrington Campus. You will also build essential transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, preparing you for a wide range of career paths, from skilled tradesperson to business owner or heritage restorer.
Course Overview
• Identifying the most appropriate products and use of colour in different settings. • Understanding the principles of costing, pricing and budgeting. • Working to allocated times and schedules for the project. • Identifying hazards/risks in the workplace ensuring a safe environment is maintained. • Selecting, using, maintaining and storing, paint, tools, wallcoverings, spray equipment, steps, ladders and towers safely. • Recommending appropriate products for differing scenarios and sectors. • Identifying and rectifying common surface coating and wall covering problems. • Specialist decorative techniques for example, graining, marbling and gilding.
Additional Information
Expert Trainer Assessors with vast industry experience provide continuous support throughout the programme, helping you to build confidence and develop your skills.
We have strong employer links, with opportunities to work with companies such as Bell Group and Bryan Lee, giving you valuable industry exposure.
The apprenticeship has been co-created with employers, ensuring training is highly relevant and reflects the latest industry practices and standards.
Apprentices benefit from a supportive and engaging learning environment, designed to help you succeed in both study and employment.
Strong connections with employers provide excellent career opportunities after completion.
How is the course delivered?
The apprenticeship is delivered through a combination of on-the-job training with your employer and off-the-job learning at college. In your workplace, you will gain valuable experience preparing surfaces, applying coatings, and working with wallcoverings to industry standards. At college, you will train in our industry-standard painting and decorating workshop.
Learning is highly practical, supported by classroom sessions, workshops, and tutorials that build your technical knowledge and professional behaviours. Regular workplace visits and mentoring from Trainer Assessors ensure your progress is monitored and your skills are applied effectively.
How my learning will be assessed?
Practical workplace observations to assess technical skills
Written assignments and knowledge tests to evidence understanding
Portfolio completion to showcase your achievements and development
Regular progress meetings and reviews with your employer and Trainer Assessor
End Point Assessment (EPA) – externally validated, including a professional discussion, knowledge test, and practical observation
Course Facilities
As a Painting and Decorating apprentice, you will train in our industry-standard painting and decorating workshops, located within the dedicated Construction Centre at our Accrington Campus. These facilities replicate real working environments, giving you the opportunity to practise techniques such as preparing surfaces, applying coatings, and working with wallcoverings using professional tools and materials.
The Construction Centre was developed in collaboration with employers to ensure it meets industry standards, and also features spaces shared with other trades, helping you build confidence working alongside related professions. This hands-on environment prepares you for the demands of working in the construction sector.
Potential Careers
Completing the Level 2 Painting and Decorating Apprenticeship opens up a variety of exciting career paths within the construction and decorative trades. Many apprentices progress into roles such as Painter or Decorator, working on domestic and commercial projects. Others choose to specialise in areas like Heritage Restoration or move into industrial roles as an Industrial Painter/Decorator.
With experience, you could become a Self-Employed Painter and Decorator, running your own business, or progress into supervisory positions such as Construction Site Supervisor. Some also choose to share their expertise by becoming a Trainer or Lecturer, inspiring the next generation of decorators.
