NQ Painting & Decorating (Pre-Apprenticeship)
This course aims to provide a solid foundation in a range of Painting and Decorating trade skills. It promotes the experience of working with others in a practical construction environment and gives opportunities for employment at a basic skill level in the construction industry.
To achieve this, students will learn about the skills and attitudes that employers are looking for, how to work effectively with others and what to expect when in the workplace.
The course will consist of practical workshops, classroom-based learning sessions and directed study using ICT and the College's virtual learning environment (Moodle).
Students will also gain experience in the use of construction tools and equipment and develop an appreciation of the interdependence of various building trades in the construction industry.
Content
- Preparation and Application of Surface Coatings
- Apply Paint Systems by Brush, Roller, and Spray Appliances
- Paperhanging
- Specialist Decorative Applications
- Health and Safety in the Construction Industry
- Employability and Behavioural Skills
- Sustainability in Construction
- Communication
- Numeracy
- Information Technology
Career Paths
- This course will provide opportunities to potentially progress to Modern Apprenticeships in Painting and Decorating.
Progression
- Successful completion of this course can lead to placement/employment in Painting and Decorating with industry Employers at higher level such as SVQ Level 3 in a Construction Trade discipline
Entry requirements
- Minimum of two National 4’s in English and Maths or Maths Craft 1 (Please note: Those applying for the course with an application of maths qualification, irrespective of the level achieved, will be required to attend and pass a maths skills test at a college campus in order to progress to a group selection event.)
- Alternatively, applicants with a relevant Construction qualification, such as Foundation Apprenticeship or a National Progression Award , will be considered by the course Curriculum Manager
- Applicants who do not meet the above entry requirements but have relevant industry experience or alternative industry qualifications will be considered at the discretion of the Curriculum Manager.
Additional requirements:
- Selection via a group selection event
More Info
Further advice for full-time applicants:
• Please ensure you have an online account before starting your application
• If you created your account prior to November 2024, you will need to register a new account
• Before starting the application process, please ensure you already hold or are working towards the relevant entry qualifications required for the course you are applying for
• Ensure you use your own personal email address when creating your online account
• Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an automated email immediately
• If you do not receive an acknowledgement e-mail immediately, please check your SPAM/Junk folder
• Please include as much detail as possible in your personal statement such as: the reason you are applying, future career plans, previous employment, relevant experience, hobbies and interests
• Disclosing support needs in your application will not affect your chances of being offered a place on a course at Forth Valley College
• If your application is successful, you will be invited for interview. For January start courses interviews will be in Nov/Dec and interviews for August start courses will take place between February and May
• If your application is unsuccessful, you will be offered support in finding a suitable alternative course
• Applicants who provide a mobile phone number on their application form will be sent a text reminder prior to the day of interview
• If you are unable to attend an interview or wish to withdraw your application - please email student.applications@forthvalley.ac.uk
Falkirk Campus
Full-Time
17 August 2026
Level 5