16-18 Courses, 16-18: Vocational

Painting and Decorating (Level 1)

Course Overview

Entry requirements

Three or more GCSEs at Grade 2 including:

  • GCSE English Language and maths at Grade 2 (or equivalent)
  • Successful completion of Entry 3, and appropriate recommendation report

Course information

If you are interested in decorating and would like to progress into employment this may be the course for you. This course will assist you on the right road to a career in the decorating trade.

Key topics

  • All aspects of health and safety information
  • Quantities and communication with others
  • Building methods and construction technology
  • Erecting and dismantling access equipment
  • Preparing surfaces for decorating
  • Applying paint systems
  • Applying foundation and plain papers.
  • Producing specialist decorative finishes
  • How you are assessed

    You will be assessed by practical assessments, unit question papers and an online multiple choice examination.

    If you do not hold a GCSE level 4/C in English and Maths, you will also study either GCSE or Functional Skills in these subjects (1

  • Why study at NCC?

    • We are Ofsted-rated Outstanding, so you can expect exceptional teaching and support you can trust
    • Expert tutors bring real-world industry experience into every lesson
    • Flexible learning options let you tailor study to your life and ambitions
    • Broad career pathways: from entry level through to professional qualifications
    • One-to-one support with academic advice, wellbeing services and financial guidance
    • Modern, industry-standard facilities: labs, workshops, digital tools and performance spaces
    • Courses co-designed with employers to match local and national job markets
    • Strong employer partnerships offer placements, live projects and networking opportunities
    • A supportive, inclusive community where you can flourish and succeed

    With regeneration projects and trade opportunities booming, New City College is the perfect place to gain the practical skills for a successful career in Construction and Skilled Trades, one of the UK’s fastest-growing industries.

    Through employer partnerships, work placements and apprenticeship pathways, you’ll get real on-the-job experience in trades like engineering, carpentry, motor vehicle, bricklaying, plumbing and electrical installation.

    We’re proud to be one of only 10 Construction Technical Excellence Colleges (CTECs) in the UK, receiving extra investment to deliver cutting-edge training where the industry needs it most. With links to major employers including Vinci, Kier, Mace and SWIFT Brickwork, you’ll leave with the skills, experience and confidence to succeed. And with employers often coming to NCC first to fill vacancies, our students get the inside track on new job opportunities.

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What Can This Course Lead To

Progression onto Level 2 Diploma or work based learning and possible employment.

Life At NCC

Discover what life is like at the largest college in East London today!

Facilities for Students

At New City College we have a range of world-class facilities across our campuses.

Financial Support

There are several ways we can help you cover the cost of your studies.