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Level 2 Painting and Decorating Course in Derby – Derby College

Cost£3,600.00
Duration36 weeks
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start6 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body
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About this course

Level 2 Painting and Decorating Course in Derby. Classes run at Derby College, full-time during the day. You'll need GCSE grade 4 or above in both Maths and English to join, and you'll attend an interview with the Construction team before starting. Over 36 weeks, you'll develop practical skills in surface preparation, decorative finishes, wallpaper hanging, and safe use of access equipment. Training takes place in industry-standard workshops. This level 2 painting and decorating qualification is awarded by City and Guilds.

Who this course is for

This Level 2 Painting and Decorating course is ideal for learners who want to begin a career in the decorating trade and have already achieved GCSE grade 4 or above in Maths and English. It’s a direct-entry course that focuses on developing the practical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the industry.You’ll learn how to prepare surfaces, apply decorative finishes, hang wallpaper, and use access equipment safely. Training takes place in industry-standard workshops, with opportunities for realistic projects, employer engagement, and work experience.Maths and EnglishYou won’t need to retake GCSEs. Instead, you’ll develop your maths and English through practical tasks, such as calculating surface areas, estimating materials, and reading job specifications.This course is ideal for learners who are:Creative and hands-onMotivated to work in the decorating industryReliable, detail-focused, and eager to learn

Entry requirements

To join this course, you must meet the following criteria:

Academic Requirements

A minimum of GCSE grade 4 (or equivalent) in both Mathematics and English Language.

Experience and Qualifications

Previous qualifications or experience in developing construction skills will be advantageous and may support your application.

Interview and Selection

You will be required to attend an interview with a member of the Construction team to assess your suitability for the course and discuss your career goals.

What you will learn

  • You'll prepare surfaces for painting and decorating, including filling, sanding, and priming.
  • You'll apply paint and decorative finishes using brushes, rollers, and spray equipment.
  • You'll hang wallpaper, including lining paper and patterned wallcoverings.
  • You'll use access equipment safely, including ladders and working platforms.
  • You'll select and use the right tools and materials for different surfaces and finishes.
  • You'll follow health and safety practices relevant to the decorating trade.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical, hands-on training in industry-standard workshops at Derby College. Classroom sessions build your underpinning knowledge of materials, techniques, and safe working practices. Assessment includes practical tasks and observations where you demonstrate your skills, alongside written or knowledge-based assessments. You'll also attend an interview before starting to confirm the course is right for you.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Derby College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Painter and decorator. Work for a contractor or go self-employed once qualified.
  • Decorating operative. Entry-level site roles with housebuilders and refurbishment firms.
  • Maintenance painter. In-house painting and upkeep for housing associations or facilities teams.
  • Self-employed decorator. Take on domestic and commercial jobs independently.

What you could study next

  • NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Painting and Decorating. The next step for decorators aiming at skilled-worker status and a CSCS card at the appropriate grade.
  • Level 3 Award in Education and Training. If you want to pass your skills on and teach in a college or training centre.
  • CSCS Card (Skilled Worker). Not a qualification, but a card many sites require. Your Level 2 Diploma supports the application.
Apply on derby-college.ac.uk →
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