September 2, 2026
New Careers in Colour guide to highlight routes into sector
A definitive guide dedicated to training and employment opportunities in the painting and decorating sector has been issued to colleges across the UK.
The Painting and Decorating Association’s (PDA) Careers in Colour brochure sets out routes into the industry, key skills and progression and provides detailed information for school-leavers and career-changers considering their options in the industry.
Available to download for free, the Careers in Colour guide is available as a digital document that painters and decorators can feature on their own websites or social media channels to aid recruitment.
PDA Chief Executive Neil Ogilvie said: “The PDA is on hand to help its members develop and grow their businesses – and training, skills, apprenticeships and recruitment all have a key role to play.
“Our Careers in Colour guide will help support the talent pipeline by reaching young people across the country and can be used by PDA members to offer insight into the trade when recruiting apprentices and trainees.”
The guide was issued ahead of the expected publication of the Milburn Young People and Work report, which will set out recommendations to reverse the high rates of young people who are classed as NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training).
Neil Ogilvie added: “As the only UK trade body dedicated to the sector, we represent professional painters and decorators who support apprenticeships, training and skills.
“The interim Milburn report in May highlighted the challenges young people across the UK are facing in finding training or employment opportunities and we look forward with interest to reading the recommendations in the full report.
“The PDA Careers in Colour guide is designed to provide useful information and meaningful insight into the options available in the painting and decorating sector for young people who are considering their future.”
To download the Careers in Colour guide go to: https://paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk/3d-flip-book/careers-in-colour/. For more about the PDA, or apply to join, visit: www.paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk
