Apprenticeship Summary
Build the skilled craftspeople your business needs
The Painter and Decorator - Level 2 Apprenticeship is an excellent way to recruit and develop skilled professionals capable of enhancing, protecting and maintaining domestic and commercial properties.
Painters and Decorators work across both new-build and refurbishment projects, applying coatings, finishes and wallcoverings to a wide range of buildings including homes, schools, hospitals, offices and commercial premises. They play a vital role in both the appearance and longevity of buildings while ensuring work is completed to the highest standards of quality and safety.
Is this apprenticeship right for your business?
If your organisation is looking to address skills shortages, strengthen succession planning or develop practical trade skills within your workforce, this apprenticeship provides an effective solution.
Painter and Decorator apprentices learn how to prepare surfaces, apply coatings and finishes, and deliver high-quality workmanship while meeting customer expectations and industry standards. They work independently and as part of wider construction teams across a variety of environments.
What will Apprentices Learn?
Apprentices develop the technical knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours required to operate effectively as qualified painters and decorators.
Training combines workplace learning, practical application, technical instruction and structured off-the-job training, ensuring apprentices gain valuable real-world experience alongside formal learning.
The programme is delivered on a day release basis.
Programme content includes:
- Health, safety and environmental responsibilities
- Surface preparation techniques
- Paint systems and coating technologies
- Wallpapering and wallcovering application
- Colour theory and colour matching
- Traditional and modern decorating materials
- Selection and use of appropriate products
- Repair and preparation of substrates
- Application of water-borne and solvent-borne coatings
- Customer service and communication
- Working in domestic and commercial environments
- Sustainable working practices and waste management
Apprentices learn how to achieve high-quality finishes while working efficiently, safely and professionally.
Learning combines expert support with hands-on experience, helping apprentices contribute to projects from the early stages of their training.
Professional Skills Development
The Painter and Decorator Apprenticeship focuses on developing occupational competence through workplace experience and practical training.
Apprentices gain extensive experience working with a wide range of materials, products and techniques, building the confidence and capability required to work independently within the construction industry.
The programme develops strong technical skills alongside important behaviours such as responsibility, attention to detail, communication and customer focus.
Entry Requirements
Apprentices should be employed in a suitable role that allows them to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and behaviours required by the occupational standard.
Apprentices should also hold a grade 3 or equivalent in both GCSE English and maths.
Apprentices may be required to work towards English and maths qualifications as part of their apprenticeship where appropriate. We will provide advice on the requirements that apply to your apprentice and support them throughout their learning journey.
How is the Apprentice Assessed?
Apprentices are assessed throughout the programme through workplace learning, practical activities and ongoing reviews.
The End-Point Assessment (EPA) consists of:
• Knowledge Test
• Practical Skills Test
• Professional Discussion
These assessments confirm that apprentices can successfully apply the knowledge, skills and behaviours required within the occupation
Need Help Finding the Right Apprentice?
Our Apprenticeship Onboarding Team can support you through every stage of the recruitment process, including promoting your vacancy to prospective candidates, including talent within our existing student cohort here at the College.
Whether you're recruiting your first apprentice or expanding your workforce, we'll help you find the right candidate for your business.
Ready to get started?
If you're looking to recruit an apprentice or upskill an existing employee, our Employer Engagement Team is here to help.
Get in touch today to discuss your workforce needs, funding options and upcoming start dates.
Funding and Employer Incentives
Apprenticeships are a cost-effective way to recruit new talent or develop your existing workforce, with significant government funding available for eligible employers.
Our Employer Engagement Team will explain the funding and incentives available to your organisation. View our latest Apprenticeship Funding and Employer Incentives for the most up-to-date information.
Career Progression
The Painter and Decorator Apprenticeship provides a strong platform for future career development within the construction sector.
Potential progression opportunities include:
• Advanced Decorating Roles
• Specialist Coatings Technician
• Heritage and Conservation Decorating
• Commercial Decorating Supervisor
• Site Supervisor Roles
• Construction Team Leader Positions
• Self-Employment and Business Ownership
The programme supports employers in developing highly skilled tradespeople while creating long-term progression opportunities.