Where will this course lead?

Our Level 1 Diploma in Painting and Decorating is ideal for those wishing to begin pursuing a practical career in the construction industry with a vision to go in to self employment or on to a Level 2 Diploma. Ideally you will have some previous knowledge of the trade or can demonstrate some basic practical skills.

What will I study?

You will study the following on the course:

  • Health & Safety,
  • Hanging, preparation and finish wallpapers,
  • Solvent-bourne and water-bourne finishes,
  • Specialist decorative effects,
  • Good practice & links to the construction industry,
  • Preparation for the workplace,
  • Classroom based knowledge activities.

How will this course be delivered?

Three quarters of this course involves practical assignments in the Painting and Decorating workshop and the rest is based around knowledge based activities. Our dedicated painting and decorating lecturers strive to deliver training at the highest level.

What qualifications will I get?

Diploma in Painting and Decorating (QCF)

How will I be assessed?

To pass this course you will have to successfully complete all practical and theory assessments and pass an on line end test. All assessments are carried out by qualified assessors to the required qualification standard.

How do I get a place on the course?

If successful, places are offered after interview and an assessment of your Maths & English.

What are the entry requirements?

GCSE grade 3 in Mathematics and English and be genuinely interested in the construction industry. Entry will be subject to a satisfactory reference and interview.

What else do I need to know?

You will be required to provide safety boots and appropriate clothes to wear in the workshop. You will also be expected to provide your on stationary e.g. pens, pencils and A4 folders. Good levels of English and Maths are important for your success in your course, your chosen vocation and life. Throughout your course you will continue to develop your English and Maths skills in your vocational classes.

If you haven't achieved an A*/9 - C/4 grade in English or Maths at GCSE, or a Level 2 Functional Skill, you will also be working towards a qualification in English or Maths at a level that will enable you to progress towards these grades. If you have a Learning Difficulty or Disability please let us know when you apply. You will be offered support in your interview. If you need help completing your application we can help with this too. Solihull College and University Centre offers full time and part time courses for businesses and residents in Birmingham, Walsall, Wolverhampton, Coventry, Warwickshire and the whole of the West Midlands.

What can I do after this course?

If you successfully pass this course you can apply to progress on to the L2 Diploma in Painting and Decorating. Learners who have a high standard of attendance and have demonstrated a positive attitude can be recommended for any available apprenticeships.

Location

Woodlands Campus

Start Date

Sept-2025

Day

Various

Time

TBC

Course Fee

N/A for 16 to 18 year olds

Course Code

BUEAA052CCF0

Study Mode

Full Time

Painter/Decorator

Those working in this unit group apply paint, varnish, wallpaper and other protective and decorative materials to interior and exterior walls and surfaces, paint designs on wood, glass, metal, plastics and other materials, and stain, wax and french polish wood surfaces by hand.

What’s Involved?

Painters/Decorators erect working platforms or scaffolding up to five metres in height. They prepare surfaces by cleaning, sanding and filling cracks and holes with appropriate filler. They apply primer, undercoat and finishing coat(s) using brush, roller, or spray equipment. They also mix adhesive or remove self-adhesive backing and position covering material on wall, matching up patterns where appropriate and removing wrinkles and air bubbles by hand or brush. They stain, wax and french polish wood surfaces by hand.

Predicted Employment

How much can I earn?

£17,680
NATIONAL AVERAGE

Employment by Region

The career paths provided are to give you an idea of the careers that you could progress onto in the future. However, for some, you may need to complete higher level qualifications and gain experience before your dream job becomes a reality. The information provided is to support further research and to generate some initial career ideas when choosing a course. Please check entry requirements to degree courses, apprenticeships, and jobs as this may vary from year to year and across providers. For further advice and guidance, please contact: careers@solihull.ac.uk.