Painting and Decorating – a great career choice
To mark National Apprenticeship Week (14 – 18 March) a national trade body is urging school leavers to consider a career in the painting and decorating industry.
As pupils across the country make plans for their future, the Painting and Decorating Association (PDA) says now is a good time to consider an apprenticeship in the trade.
The move comes as figures from the CITB’s Construction Skills Network forecast an additional 13,250 painters and decorators will be needed between now and 2018 to meet growing demand.
Neil Ogilvie, Chief Executive of the PDA said: “As the economy continues to improve and customer confidence rises, we need trained and qualified professionals to work in the industry.
“It’s important we make people aware of the opportunities for a rewarding career.
“Becoming a fully-trained painter and decorator offers a dedicated skill for life and can blend creativity with practical skills.
“They’ll possess a lifelong, professional skill with the chance to upskill with new products and decorating techniques along the way throughout their career.”
The PDA, which represents professional painters and decorators in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, has a dedicated training committee, which works with colleges across the country to develop a meaningful training programme.
Apprentices in the trade have the chance to study for an NVQ Level 1 through to NVQ Level 3 and, once qualified, there’s a wealth of opportunities in the industry.
The PDA also offers a variety of initiatives for apprentices and trainees to further develop their skills.
Opportunities include the annual Apprentice Decorator of the Year, where the winner is announced at a prestigious ceremony in London, as well as the Apprentice Wallpaper Hanger of the Year. Both competitions attract a range of candidates from across the country competing for the title.
Along with the competitions, the PDA also offers a programme of regular training programmes, networking and social activities nationwide.