This Apprenticeship is ideal for anyone who is thinking of working within the construction industry as a plasterer. It covers a broad range of skills which are put to use on a range of sites, from large building sites to private houses.
The broad purpose of this occupation is to apply layers of plaster onto walls, floors and ceilings. Plastering serves a protective function, in that it makes buildings more robust and also an aesthetic function. Plasterers will often complete dry lining projects during their career. Although a person may specialise solely in dry lining, a plasterer must have the knowledge of dry lining in addition to their knowledge and skills to plaster.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with commercial and domestic customers, other trades, architects and site managers. All plasterers can work on their own or as part of a small team. They work on small-scale domestic jobs, large repair and restoration projects and on big commercial developments such as schools or hospitals, therefore coming into contact with a wide range of people.
Whilst some plasterers are directly employed by companies specialising in plastering, there are a lot who are sub contracted by companies to work on new or existing buildings.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
You will start by learning the very basics of plastering which will include health and safety, tools and equipment and mixing materials. The skills acquired will include being able to prepare background surfaces, repair damaged walls, plaster areas and produce finished surfaces using a variety of techniques and materials. You will also learn how to use step ladders in a practical way when you are working on your projects and about tower scaffold in the classroom.
You will also learn floating and skimming to various backgrounds, plaster boarding and skimming ceilings, and running a cornice mould and fix into position incorporating external and internal mitres. You will also learn how to design your own drawings, provide estimates and create business plans.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Portfolio of Evidence
In Class Tests
Practical Tests
Multiple Choice Tests
End Point Assessment
WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
The Apprenticeship will provide you with the skills to progress further within your chosen trade. Alternatively, you may wish to progress onto a Level 3 qualification in Construction. Some former Apprentices take advantage of the scope for self-employment which this trade offers.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW?
You will be required to provide your own safety boots and basic stationary for use in the classroom.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
An apprenticeship at level 2 requires you to complete, or be working towards a level 1 in Functional Skills for Maths and English. Depending on your prior attainment level, you may be required to complete an initial assessment to check suitability for entry onto the programme. If you have already achieved GCSE grades at E/2 or above, you may be exempt from completing this as part of the apprenticeship. Please note, that depending on grades previously achieved, you may be expected to upskill towards a level 2 in Functional Skills Maths and/or English. Furthermore, all candidates will have an interview with the Apprenticeship Specialist to assess suitably before being accepted on to an apprenticeship programme.
