If a new career as a painter and decorator is calling you, is getting an NVQ something you’ve thought of?

In this article, we look at why you’d need an NVQ, how to get the relevant work experience to get the qualification and what opportunities it could unlock for your potential career.

Can I be a painter & decorator without a qualification?

Unlike some technical trades, there’s no formal qualification that’s a requirement to work as a painter and decorator. In fact, many decorators start work with just a solid level of basic skill which they’ve gained through experience or training.

Having an industry-recognised qualification such as a City & Guilds certificate or diploma in painting and decorating or an NVQ not only formally approves your level of skill and knowledge, but it also gives the learner an opportunity to build the relevant skills and knowledge to access the industry.

Industry training or on-the-job training in painting and decorating?

Apprenticeships and college courses are common entry points to a career in painting and decorating.

While work experience is vital for all pathways, learning on the job is another option in its own right. By finding work alongside an experienced painter and decorator as their labourer or mate while you learn the ropes. But without the end goal of a qualification, you may find this restricts the type of work you can take on in the long run.  

What is an NVQ?

An NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) is a ‘Declaration of Competence’; it proves you can do certain tasks related to your work to an appropriate standard.

Candidates’ abilities are assessed in relation to national occupational standards through a portfolio of evidence or by observation by an assessor

How do I get an NVQ in painting and decorating?

Painting and decorating require in-depth skills. The level of skill required to achieve an NVQ in painting in decorating can be gained via a course at an independent training provider, a college course or, commonly, via an apprenticeship. However, it’s worth remembering that NVQs are work-based assessments.

NVQ Level 2 Painting & Decorating Course

Doing industry-recognised professional training like the NVQ Level 2 Painting and Decorating course at Able Skills is a perfect pathway to accessing the industry as the course takes learners from complete beginners to qualified decorators. This is a City & Guilds certificate and training to NVQ Level 2.

You’ll gain the relevant skills and knowledge to prepare you for work and to prepare you for achieving the NVQ. You’ll be able to register as someone working towards an NVQ Level 2 in painting and decorating and, via an independent CSCS test, you could gain access to a CSCS Experienced Worker or Trainee card.

What are the benefits of having an NVQ in painting and decorating?

Having the correct qualifications for your career can affect the type of work you can take on. Employers may look more favourably at candidates with qualifications, not just experience.

For domestic work (if you’re interested in working for people in their homes) experience and customer reviews also play a vital role.

But when it comes to gaining work on building sites, holding a CSCS card is a mandatory requirement and holding an NVQ in your chosen trade plays an important part in that.

Able Skills is a construction training provider. Our painting and decorating training includes short DIY courses right up to full professional qualifications from City & Guilds.

If you’re interested in learning painting and decorating at any level, visit the training centre or call us on 01322 280 202.