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Key details

Course area
Construction
Student types
16 - 18 coursesCourses for 19+ students
Course type
Full-time Further Education course
Course level
Level 2
Start date
Tuesday 1st September 2026
Location
Basford 664 Nuthall Road, Nottingham, NG8 6AQ
Course code
Parent course code:C000131 Child course code: Q000751
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Course introduction

This course is perfect if you already have some painting and decorating skills and are looking to take your learning to another level.

You’ll learn about:

  • Preparing and sanding surfaces for paint
  • The different coverings for walls and ceilings
  • Applying primers
  • Paint spraying
  • Decorative finishes

You’ll learn about the various different trades and how they all come together on a project and about understanding the needs of your customers.

You can expect to get lots of practical learning using all of the main tools and materials of the trade. You’ll also get to complete lots of practical assessments to test your skills, all with the support of your experienced tutors.

Programme of Study

When you enrol on your chosen course you will be automatically enrolled onto a Programme of Study (PoS), which will include:

  • A vocational qualification
  • English and maths
  • Personal and social development
  • Independent study
  • Work experience

Enrolling in the Programme of Study (PoS) at Nottingham College offers you the chance to acquire both work-specific knowledge and essential skills. If you haven't yet achieved a grade 4 in English and maths, this programme ensures you will study these subjects, enhancing your progression not only within the college but also in future employment. Additionally, the PoS includes a 30-hour work placement related to your course, providing valuable hands-on experience.

The programme incorporates enrichment activities aimed at developing vital industry skills such as problem-solving, communication, teamwork, collaboration, and the ability to follow instructions. These experiences will enhance your CV, making you more attractive to potential employers. You will also participate in personal development sessions covering current and relevant topics like PREVENT, British Values, and keeping safe amongst others. Your personal development tutor will offer one-on-one support for your wellbeing and development, while a personal tutor will set academic targets to ensure you stay on track to achieve your goals.

Social action projects are another integral part of the PoS, allowing you to support local communities and charities. These projects will help you develop "future ready" skills, including professional behaviour and attitude, problem-solving and commitment, communication and collaboration, self-confidence, individuality and respect, and digital literacy. These competencies are crucial for becoming work-ready.

Your timetable will also include independent study periods, where you will engage in activities such as research, revision, improving digital skills, and working on assignments.

Given the practical nature of the course, consistent attendance is crucial to your success and reaching your full academic potential. We expect full attendance in all classes to maximize your learning and development.

By committing to the Programme of Study at Nottingham College, you are setting yourself up for success both academically and professionally.

A person painting a ceiling.

You will be encouraged to participate in a 30-hour work placement while you are studying.

Read more

Course information

1 year

City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Painting and Decorating

You’ll need to have successfully completed a Level 1 vocational qualification in Painting and Decorating.

You must also have a minimum of a GCSE Grade 3 in both English and Maths or Functional Skills Level 1.

For applicants aged 19+, relevant industry experience may be considered.

Assessment will include multiple choice papers, practical assessments and external online tests.

Choose to follow with an Apprenticeship in painting or decorating or full time permanent employment. You could also go it alone as a self-employed painter and decorator.

Students aged 16-18 don't have to pay tuition fees.

If you are aged 19 or over you may still be eligible for funding. Check out our Financial Help pages to find out more!

If you are an EU/EEA or Swiss National, please visit our EU Settled Status scheme page for more information.

Meet Joe & learn how his experience in construction at Basford is building his skills
Basford campus tour with student rep Makai
Meet Jess and learn why she is studying a joinery course at our Basford campus

Careers related to this course

Painters and Decorators

Potential Earnings

£35,520.52

Average Earnings

£24,363.81

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Pathways

Building and Construction

People in these occupations manage building projects, inspect structures, and carry out various construction trades: masonry, carpentry, plumbing, electrical installation, etc.

Skills

Monitoring

Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Active Listening

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Learning Strategies

Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.

Speaking

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Mathematics

Using mathematics to solve problems.
View more about this career

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.

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