Level 1 Painting and Decorating Course in Chesterfield – Chesterfield College – Full-time
CostFree if you're eligible
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding body
Free or reduced fees may be available, depending on your circumstances. Chesterfield College lists a fee of £1,206 if you're not eligible. Contact Chesterfield College for more info.
Level 1 Painting and Decorating Course in Chesterfield. Classes run at Chesterfield College, full-time during the day. You'll need GCSE grade 3 or above in both Maths and English to apply. The course runs for one year and covers the core skills of the trade: surface preparation, paint application, and decorating techniques. It's a solid foundation if you're heading toward an apprenticeship or further training in the construction sector.
Who this course is for
16-18 Year Old Learners
Entry requirements
You must have a GCSE grade 3 in both Maths and English.
What you will learn
You'll prepare surfaces for painting and decorating, including filling, sanding, and priming.
You'll apply paint using brushes, rollers, and other tools to a range of surfaces.
You'll hang wallpaper and other wall coverings accurately.
You'll identify and use the correct materials and equipment for different jobs.
You'll follow health and safety procedures on site.
You'll understand colour theory and how to mix and match paints.
How you will learn
You'll learn through practical, hands-on sessions in the classroom and workshop at Chesterfield College. Assessment includes practical tasks where you demonstrate your skills, along with written or knowledge-based assessments. You'll build a portfolio of evidence as you progress through the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Chesterfield College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Painter and decorator apprentice. A natural next step after Level 1 training.
Trainee painter and decorator. Entry-level site work with a painting contractor.
Decorating labourer. Support role on residential or commercial projects.
Property maintenance operative. Painting and decorating as part of a broader maintenance role.
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma in Painting and Decorating (City and Guilds). The next step up, covering more advanced techniques and preparing you for skilled trade work.
Painting and Decorating Apprenticeship (Level 2 or Level 3). Combines on-the-job training with a qualification and is the most direct route to becoming a qualified painter and decorator.
Level 2 NVQ in Painting and Decorating. An NVQ gained in the workplace, often needed for a CSCS skilled-worker card.
