Painting and Decorating

Why study Painting and Decorating?

  • At New City College, our Painting and Decorating course is built around practical, hands-on experience that mirrors what employers are looking for.

    With units covering access equipment, decorative finishes, and specialist tools, you’ll train in a realistic workshop environment using professional materials—giving you the confidence to step straight onto a worksite or apprenticeship.

  • Our tutors aren’t just teachers—they’re industry professionals with real-world experience. They’ll guide you through every stage, from preparing surfaces to producing advanced decorative finishes.

    Training is delivered in fully-equipped workshops that meet current industry standards, so you'll be using tools and methods that match the workplace.

  • You’ll develop a wide set of skills—like applying paint systems, health and safety knowledge, and repairing surfaces—that are essential for a career in the painting and decorating industry.

    By the end of the course, you’ll be ready to take on real jobs or progress to a Level 2 Diploma or apprenticeship, confident in your abilities.

  • Alongside your core skills, you’ll gain vital extras like risk assessment training, environmental awareness, and knowledge of the latest tools and materials.

    Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to work on practical assignments and projects that showcase your work—ideal for building a portfolio.

  • At NCC, you're never just a number. You’ll be supported from day one with induction, ongoing feedback, and personalised help to meet your goals.

    We provide a safe, inclusive space where your progress is encouraged, and achievements are recognised—whether you’re aiming for employment, further study, or just mastering a new trade.

Prepare for success

Learn more about your course.

Get ahead of the game and feel confident about what’s coming next. Get a feel for your course by trying the activities below.

Research answers to the following questions:

  • What are the leading brands of paint?

  • Why is some paint more expensive than others?

  • What is the worlds most expensive wallpaper?

  • What jobs are there for painters and decorators in your local area?

Recommended YouTube Videos

Curriculum Plans – Level 3 Painting and Decorating Watch here

Practical Decorating Tips Watch here

Discover where your course can take you

Not sure what jobs your course could lead to?

Explore career options linked to the subject you’ve applied for. From real-world job roles to industry insights, you’ll see how your studies at New City College can help you build a successful future.

Meet Lucy

"My grandad inspired me to go into painting and decorating. The course at Hackney has built my skills and confidence to start an apprenticeship and plan my future business."

Top tips

Get to know your tools and materials

Learn the names and uses of common tools like rollers, brushes, scrapers and pasting equipment. Knowing what each tool does will make your practical lessons much easier from day one.

1

Brush up on health and safety basics

In Painting and Decorating, safety is key. Have a look at simple health and safety rules, like how to wear PPE properly and keep your workspace clean and hazard-free. It’ll help you work confidently and safely.

2

Be practical-minded!

This course is all about hands-on learning. Try small projects at home, like painting a bit of wall or using masking tape neatly. It’ll give you a great head start and boost your confidence in practical tasks.

3

 FAQs

  • Painting and Decorating is all about improving and protecting buildings.

    You’ll learn how to prepare surfaces and apply paint, wallpaper, and specialist finishes to a professional standard. It’s a practical trade that plays a vital role in construction and design.

  • You’ll cover everything from preparing surfaces and applying different paint systems to hanging wallpaper and producing decorative finishes.

    The course also includes learning about health and safety, using access equipment like ladders and scaffolding, and understanding basic building construction.

  • Yes, you can! If you progress from Level 1 to Level 2 and then complete a Level 3 Diploma in Painting and Decorating, you could apply for university courses in construction management, interior design, or related fields.

    Many students also use this route to secure higher apprenticeships or go straight into work with advanced skills.

We’re officially Outstanding!

New City College has been rated Outstanding by Ofsted (March 2025) — the highest grade possible.

Inspectors praised our inclusive culture, exceptional teaching, strong student support, and inspirational leadership. We’re proud to be the largest college in the UK to achieve this top rating — and even prouder of what it means for our students.

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