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Painting and Decorating (Level 1 City & Guilds Diploma) — Full-time

Course outline

This course is perfect if you’ve got a passion for painting and decorating and want to get to grips with what’s involved in a job in the industry, either as an employee or as a self-employed painter and decorator.

You’ll learn all about:

  • Building methods
  • Erecting and dismantling access equipment
  • Preparing surfaces
  • Applying paint by brush, roller and sprayer
  • Adding special finishes
  • Health and safety practices

You can expect loads of hands-on learning which will help you to develop a range of skills and prepare you for a range of practical and written assessments.

Programme of Study

When you enrol on your chosen course you will be automatically enrolled onto a Programme of Study (PoS), which will include:

  • A vocational qualification
  • English and maths
  • Personal and social development
  • Independent study
  • Work experience

Enrolling in a Programme of Study at Nottingham College offers you the opportunity to acquire not only industry-specific knowledge and skills but also to enhance your proficiency in English and maths if you have not yet achieved a grade 4 in these subjects. Achievement of these fundamental skills will benefit your progression both at college and in your future employment.

The Programme of Study includes practical work experience through social action projects and community engagement, helping you develop essential "future ready" skills such as teamwork, communication, time management, self-confidence, openness to learning, a sense of belonging, and digital literacy. Skills which are crucial for becoming work-ready.

You will also participate in enrichment activities designed to develop broader skills vital for success in any industry. These activities focus on problem-solving, communication, teamwork, collaboration, and the ability to follow instructions, all of which will enhance your CV. Additionally, personal development sessions will cover current and relevant topics such as PREVENT, British Values, and keeping safe, amongst others. You will receive support from a personal development tutor through one-on-one sessions focused on your wellbeing and growth. Furthermore, you will be assigned a personal tutor who will set academic targets to keep you on track towards achieving your goals.

Independent study is a key component of your timetable, providing you with designated time to work outside the classroom on tasks such as research activities, revision, improving digital skills, and completing assignments.

Given the practical nature of the course, consistent attendance is essential for your success and to reach your full academic potential. We expect you to attend every class and engage fully in all aspects of the Programme of Study.

By committing to this comprehensive and supportive educational experience at Nottingham College, you will be well-prepared for both academic and professional success.

How to apply for this course

Apply online to start in 2025/26.

Want to find out more first?

Get in touch by hitting the button below and filling out our enquiry form.

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Location Date
664 Nuthall Road
Basford
Nottingham
NG8 6AQ

Start: Monday 1st September 2025

Course code: C000130 / Q000741

Qualification

City & Guilds Level 1 Diploma in Painting and Decorating

Duration

1 year

Level Level 1
Entry requirements

You’ll need 4 GCSEs at grades 1-3, including English at grade 2 and Maths at grade 2. Alternatively, a relevant Entry 3 vocational qualification would be considered.

Teaching & assessment

You will be assessed by completing multiple choice papers, a practical assessment and external online tests.

Progression

Choose to follow with further study at Nottingham College onto a Level 2 in Painting and Decorating or perhaps onto an apprenticeship. You could also move into another programme in a different building trade.

Additional information

Students aged 16-18 don't have to pay tuition fees.

If you are aged 19 or over you may still be eligible for funding. Check out our Financial Help pages to find out more!

If you are an EU/EEA or Swiss National, please visit our EU Settled Status scheme page for more information.

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