You will explore a range of modules on the course, including:

Construction Health & Safety

• Health and safety legislation.
• Hazards and risks within the construction industry.
• Risk mitigation.
• Understanding and following method statements.
• Stakeholder responsibilities.
• Policies and procedures and the role of the Health and Safety Executive.

Understanding the Principles of building construction, information and communication

• Identify a range of building materials used with the construction industry
• Knowledge of environmental considerations to improve efficiency
• Knowledge of construction foundations
• Understand the of internal and externals walls, calculating areas, components used in internal and externals walls.  Identify materials in mix ratios used in mortar
• Knowledge of different types of floors
• Communication in the workplace

Preparing Surfaces for Decoration

• Prepare timber, metal and plastered surfaces for the application of paint
• Remove paint and papered surfaces for the application of paint
• Repair surfaces

Applying Paint Systems by Brush and Roller

• Apply a variety of surface coatings including primer and undercoats to complex areas like ceilings, metal and windows

Applying Foundation and Plain Papers

• Apply paper to ceiling and walls using the correct techniques
• Apply a variety of wall coverings including woven and non-woven papers
• Use agreed methods of application to surface area such as planning, levelling and correct cutting techniques.

Producing Specialist Decorative Finishes

• Prepare surfaces correctly, apply suitable ground coats
• Use a variety of glazes and scumbles to achieve decorative finishes such as, stippling, wood graining and marbling.
• Apply protective coatings

Applying and Creating Colour

• Apply various designs and colour schemes using achromatic, monochromatic and colour design systems.
• Understand how colour theory applies to modern decorating, using tones, shades colour values.

Erecting and Dismantling Access Equipment and Working Platforms

• Select the correct access equipment for working platforms such as ladders, trestle platforms and podiums for internal and external work.
• Check access equipment to ensure following Health and Safety guidelines

As a Level 2 Painting and Decorating learner at Preston College, you will have a dedicated, workspace where you can develop your practical skills. The workshops replicate a live working environment, using Industry grade materials.  This provides a real flavour of what life in the construction industry is really like.

The practical lesson will be held 1 night per week, 6-9pm with approximately 4-8 hours of independent study, via LMS CANVAS.

You will be assessed by using a range of controlled online assessments and practical assessments throughout each module. Students also meet regularly with tutors to help plan studies and discuss progress.

On completion of this qualification, you can progress onto a work-based qualification once you have gained employment in industry.  You can also apply for a CSCS skills card that will enable you to work on site as a skilled worker in your chosen trade.

As our Construction Centre reflects industry working practices, you will be required to purchase and wear suitable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including work boots and overalls (or old clothing).

To undertake this course, you must hold a level 1 qualification in Painting and Decorating or have substantial experience in industry.  We will assess your skills by asking you to complete additional questions on application to gain your level of experience, then a practical skills assessment if you hold industry experience.  We require you to be working at a minimum of Entry 3 in English, if you don’t hold an English qualification, you may be required to undertake an assessment.