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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 1
Start date
Tuesday 1st September 2026
Location
Basford 664 Nuthall Road, Nottingham, NG8 6AQ
Course code
Parent course code:C000134 Child course code: Q000781
Apply now

Course introduction

This course is perfect if you have a good eye for detail, have good coordination and enjoy physical work. There’s nothing more satisfying than seeing a well plastered wall and knowing that you did it!

You’ll learn all about plastering in a commercial and domestic setting including:

  • Internal solid plastering
  • One and two coat rendering systems
  • Mechanically fixing plasterboard
  • Fixing and finishing dry lining

Customer service skills and working on large projects are also important aspects of this course.

You can expect a combination of practical and theoretical learning to give you a good degree of knowledge and practice in this tricky but satisfying art form. You’ll develop your skills within dedicated workshop spaces and with the full support of very experienced tutors, all with professional plastering backgrounds.

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 a Programme of Study at Nottingham College offers you the opportunity to acquire not only industry-specific knowledge and skills but also to enhance your proficiency in English and maths if you have not yet achieved a grade 4 in these subjects. Achievement of these fundamental skills will benefit your progression both at college and in your future employment.

The Programme of Study includes practical work experience through social action projects and community engagement, helping you develop essential "future ready" skills such as teamwork, communication, time management, self-confidence, openness to learning, a sense of belonging, and digital literacy. Skills which are crucial for becoming work-ready.

You will also participate in enrichment activities designed to develop broader skills vital for success in any industry. These activities focus on problem-solving, communication, teamwork, collaboration, and the ability to follow instructions, all of which will enhance your CV. Additionally, personal development sessions will cover current and relevant topics such as PREVENT, British Values, and keeping safe, amongst others. You will receive support from a personal development tutor through one-on-one sessions focused on your wellbeing and growth. Furthermore, you will be assigned a personal tutor who will set academic targets to keep you on track towards achieving your goals.

Independent study is a key component of your timetable, providing you with designated time to work outside the classroom on tasks such as research activities, revision, improving digital skills, and completing assignments.

Given the practical nature of the course, consistent attendance is essential for your success and to reach your full academic potential. We expect you to attend every class and engage fully in all aspects of the Programme of Study.

By committing to this comprehensive and supportive educational experience at Nottingham College, you will be well-prepared for both academic and professional success.

Course information

1 year

City & Guilds Level 1 Diploma in Plastering (Construction)

You’ll need 4 GCSEs at grades 1-3, including English at grade 2 and Maths at grade 2. Alternatively, a relevant Entry 3 vocational qualification would be considered.

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

Choose to follow with further study at college on a Level 2 programme either in plastering or another trade, or onto an apprenticeship.

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

Plasterers

Potential Earnings

£37,842.45

Average Earnings

£25,956.44

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

Mathematics

Using mathematics to solve problems.

Monitoring

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

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Learning Strategies

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

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.
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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