Free Level 1 Construction Skills (Painting and Decorating) Course in Bishop Auckland. Classes run at Bishop Auckland College, full-time during the day. No prior experience is needed. Over one year, you'll cover surface preparation, painting techniques, basic wallpapering, decorative effects, and health and safety. You'll also have the chance to visit construction sites and hear from industry speakers. The course gives you a practical grounding in the trade before moving into an apprenticeship or further study.
Who this course is for
Would you like a career in construction but are unsure of which trade, then this is the qualification for you! Designed to give you a taster in painting and decorating. The course covers some theory elements as well as practical tasks to enhance your skills. Students also have the opportunity to visit construction sites and hear from visiting speakers, before progressing further in their chosen craft.
Entry requirements
No prior experience or requirements needed.
What you will learn
You'll prepare surfaces by cleaning, filling, sanding, and applying primer and undercoat.
You'll use brushes and rollers to apply emulsion, gloss, and eggshell to walls, ceilings, and woodwork.
You'll hang basic wallpaper, including marking plumb lines, pasting, booking, and trimming.
You'll create simple decorative effects such as stencilling, basic colour blending, and rag rolling.
You'll prepare and paint doors, frames, and skirting boards.
You'll apply health and safety practices including safe use of PPE, ladders, and handling paints and solvents.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of classroom theory and hands-on practical tasks. Sessions cover both knowledge and technique, giving you time to practise on test boards and small rooms. You'll also take part in construction site visits and hear from visiting industry speakers. Assessment is through practical tasks and theory elements completed during the course.
What you will need to bring
You'll need to bring your own PPE: safety boots, bib and braces, gloves, masks, overalls, and safety glasses. Bishop Auckland College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Painter and decorator. How to become a painter and decorator starts here.
Decorating labourer. Support skilled decorators on site while building experience.
Construction operative. A broad entry-level role across building and refurbishment sites.
Maintenance painter. Painting and upkeep work in housing, facilities, or public buildings.
What you could study next
Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Painting and Decorating. The next step toward a CSCS skilled-worker card and recognised trade status.
Painting and Decorating Apprenticeship (Level 2). Earn while you learn on the job, working toward a full trade qualification.
Level 2 Certificate in Construction Skills. Broaden your construction knowledge across other trade areas if you want to explore further before specialising.
