Funding band - £12,000 Non-levy payers will contribute 5%. If apprentices are aged 16-21 at the start of the course, it is fully funded by the government. Levy payers pay the full funding band.
This Craft Painting & Decorating Apprenticeship is available to anyone aged over 16.
A craft painter and decorator works across domestic, commercial, and public sectors, enhancing buildings' appearance while protecting them from environmental damage. Their role is closely linked to the construction industry, requiring technical expertise, creativity, and problem-solving skills. They handle a variety of tasks, including painting, spraying, wallpapering, gilding, and sign writing, often advising on designs and materials while considering sustainability.
This profession demands high levels of responsibility, precision, and compliance with safety regulations, especially when working with hazardous surfaces. Whether working solo or in teams, they must manage projects effectively and ensure high-quality finishes that meet client expectations. Strong communication skills are essential, as they liaise with other tradespeople, site managers, architects, and clients.
With global mobility and evolving industry trends, craft painters and decorators face expanding opportunities and challenges. Sustainable practices, waste awareness, and environmental considerations are increasingly integral to their work. Progression from Level 2 to Level 3 is a common pathway, further developing their expertise in delivering high-standard results.
What skills and qualities do apprentices need?
Apprentices in painting and decorating need a mix of technical skills and personal qualities to succeed. Here are some key ones:
Skills
Painting & Finishing Techniques – Understanding different methods like brushing, rolling, spraying, and decorative effects.
Communication & Teamwork – Working with clients, colleagues, and other trades.
Problem-Solving – Finding solutions to unexpected challenges on site.
Time Management – Organising work efficiently to meet deadlines.
Qualities
Patience & Perseverance – Achieving flawless finishes takes time and effort.
Reliability & Professionalism – Meeting client expectations and maintaining good business relationships.
Adaptability – Handling different projects and client needs effectively.
A great apprentice combines practical skills with a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn and grow in the trade.
Entry Requirements
You should be aged 16 or over and ideally already be employed or have secured a work placement, however we may be able to help you with this.
Apprentices without level 1 English and maths will need to achieve this level and apprentices without level 2 English and maths will need to take the tests for this level prior to taking the end-point assessment.
For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. A British Sign Language (BSL) qualification is an alternative to the English qualification for those whose primary language is BSL.
To search and apply for apprenticeship vacancies visit the national apprenticeship vacancy website.
If you are aged 16-18 and you are unable to find an apprenticeship, you can apply for a study programme and switch over at any point when you do find one.
What will apprentices learn at college?
What would apprentices learn at College?
Technical Skills
Surface Preparation – Cleaning, sanding, priming, and treating surfaces, including hazardous materials like lead and asbestos.
Application Techniques – Using brushes, rollers, and spray equipment for painting and decorative coatings.
Wallpapering & Gilding – Applying wallpaper and gilding techniques to a high standard.
Sign Writing – Creating decorative and functional signage.
Colour Theory & Design – Understanding colour combinations, trends, and client preferences.
Sustainability & Materials – Advising on environmentally friendly materials and waste management.
Workplace & Safety Knowledge
Health & Safety Regulations – Ensuring safe working practices on construction sites.
Legislation Compliance – Understanding building regulations and industry standards.
Project Planning & Organisation – Managing time, resources, and schedules effectively.
Communication & Client Interaction – Liaising with clients, architects, and site managers.
Professional Development
Problem-Solving & Innovation – Finding creative solutions to challenges.
Teamwork & Leadership – Working independently or in teams, sometimes supervising others.
Business & Customer Relations – Maintaining professionalism and growing a business.
This apprenticeship provides a natural progression from Level 2, helping apprentices refine their expertise and prepare for advanced roles in the industry.
Information for Employers
If you are considering taking on an apprentice and would like to find out more about the Painting & Decorating Apprenticeship please get in touch with the apprenticeship team.
They will be able to advise you on the course content, offer advice for levy and non-levy payers and provide details on the end point assessment (EPA).
From 1st April 2021 all employers are required to use the government apprenticeship service to secure funding for any apprentices they wish to employ. Apprentices will be unable to start their course at college without reserving funding.
We can assist you with this process by providing informative emails, videos and telephone assistance, please get in touch to find out more.
Call:
0113 222 6000
Email:
info@lcb.ac.uk
Current Vacancies
Current vacancies from employers we work with will be shownhere.
If none are showing, you can search and register for job alerts on the apprenticeship vacancywebsite.
Next Steps
On completion of this standard, apprentices will progress to a wide range of employment opportunities, or move onto full or part-time further & higher education.
The achievement of this standard will meet the requirement of the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) ‘Advanced Skilled Worker’ standard, which is widely recognised as a ‘licence to operate’ in a skilled construction trade.
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The College is offering the Interior Systems Installer Apprenticeship drylining pathway, which covers methods to install different drylining systems that form the walls and rooms within a building.
