Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Decorative Finishing & Industrial Painting

Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Decorative Finishing & Industrial Painting Blue CSCS card

Painting and Decorating Course Overview

The Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Decorative Finishing (Construction) is for decorators who want to prove what they can already do on site.

If you’re preparing surfaces and applying paint or finishes day to day, this painting and decorating course gives you the qualification to show you’re working to a recognised standard.

It’s a work-based route, meaning there are no exams, no college days, and no off-the-job learning. Everything is assessed where you already work.

Once completed, this NVQ helps you apply for your CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card, which is often needed to get onto site and show you’re fully qualified.

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This NVQ Level 2 painting and decorating course is a good fit if:

  • You’re working as a decorator and want a formal qualification.
  • You need a CSCS Blue Card for work or career progression.
  • You’ve never had the chance to get your trade recognised.
  • You’re a company looking to get your staff properly qualified.

You’ll need to already be doing the job – this is not a training course for beginners. It’s designed to assess the skills you already have

You’ll be assessed against six mandatory units that cover the essential tasks for a painter or decorator. These include surface prep, applying coatings, and working safely with equipment like towers or access platforms.

Mandatory Units

  • Conforming to General Health, Safety and Welfare in the Workplace (Level 1, 2 credits)
  • Conforming to Productive Working Practices in the Workplace (Level 2, 3 credits)
  • Moving, Handling and Storing Resources in the Workplace (Level 2, 5 credits)
  • Erecting and Dismantling Access/Working Platforms in the Workplace (Level 2, 8 credits)
  • Preparing Surfaces for Painting and/or Decorating in the Workplace (Level 2, 27 credits)
  • Applying Surface Coatings by Brush and Roller in the Workplace (Level 2, 22 credits)

You must be able to show that you carry out these tasks regularly and to a good standard. The qualification is about proving your real-world ability.

There are no written tests or classroom assignments. Your assessor will collect evidence of what you do while you’re working.

Assessment can include:

  • Observations on-site
  • Photographic evidence
  • Job specs and plans
  • Signed witness statements from supervisors
  • Work logs, delivery notes, or method statements
  • Conversations with your assessor to show knowledge

Everything is based on what you already do in your job.

There are no formal qualifications needed to start. However, you must be working as a painter or decorator.

Before you begin, we’ll chat with you to make sure the NVQ suits your current role and you’re doing the right tasks to complete it.

Most learners complete the course within 6 to 12 months, depending on how much evidence they can collect and how often they’re working on relevant tasks.

There’s no rush — you’ll go at your own pace. You’ll also get regular support from your assessor.

Yes. Once you’ve completed this painting and decorating course, you’ll be eligible to apply for the CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card.

You’ll also need to pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test if you haven’t already. We’ll help you understand what’s needed and can guide you through the application process.

Once you’ve got your NVQ Level 2 in painting and decorating, you’ll be classed as a skilled worker.

That means:

  • More job opportunities
  • A stronger CV
  • Eligibility for supervisory roles
  • Access to bigger sites or contracts

If you want to keep moving up, you could go on to study:

We can help you plan your next step when you’re ready.

If you’re ready to get your skills recognised, we’re here to help.

Call us on 0161 706 1401 or send a quick message and we’ll get back to you ASAP.

No stress. No classroom. Just proper recognition for the job you already do.